Are you part of the problem?
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Editor,
I have been a resident of the Flathead Reservation for 32 years now. I own property that was taken out of “trust” status and put up for sale as “fee” property.
I’ve read with interest several letters regarding the water rights negotiations here on the reservation. I believe that Susan Lake’s letter got to the point — all sides are trying to be fair and do right by everyone involved.
Over the years I’ve seen folks move to this area with no real sense of what it means to be living on a reservation, let alone any real idea of what their deed to property is all about. I must confess that when we moved here in 1980, my realtor didn’t explain everything completely, or truthfully.
So, I educated myself on tribal sovereignty, took a few classes at SKC on the history of this tribe, attended tribal celebrations, got to know tribal members, and in 32 years, I have always found the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to be helpful, considerate and respectful to non-Indians living within their boundaries.
Accurate information is very important and trust is an important community value. I hope emotions can be laid aside and the negotiations can proceed to an equitable solution for all concerned.
If you’re not part of the solution, could you be part of the problem?
Cathy Billie
St. Ignatius
