Bargain not so grand
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Editor,
This is the U.M.O. of the water compact: “… to remind the tribes about the Grand Bargain, and the fact that we agreed to do this extraordinary thing, frankly, with respect to agreeing to subject or to remove non-Indian rights on the reservation from the jurisdiction and control of the state, and place that somewhere else at the tribe’s request.” Chris Tweeten, Compact Commission Meeting, Helena, 08/02/2012.
Who gave authority to the compact commission to remove non-Indians from the jurisdiction and control of the state of Montana? Whose idea was it, besides the tribe, to agree to this illegal and unconstitutional taking of our rights?
The tribal constitution gives the tribe authority to govern Indians and their property. It does not give authority to govern non-Indians and their property.
Montana State Constitution has authority to govern its citizens. It does not state that it can place its citizens under another sovereign authority.
As non-Indians, we have no vote, no voice, no representation, and no standing in tribal courts. By this so-called “Grand Bargain,” we lose our 1st Amendment Rights — quite a bargain.
If you don’t think this will affect you, think again. This will affect you, your children, and all future generations. Would you rather be under the jurisdiction and control of the state of Montana or a tribal government? Your choice. Get in touch with the governor and your legislature to voice your opinion.
Sheila Vallejo
St. Ignatius
