Youth & Elders
Dexter and I pledge to carry on the traditions of our ancestors with our youth and our elders. We shall continue to acknowledge the wisdom of our elders, listen to their needs and serve them. We will also strive to maintain and expand existing services for our elders. We particularly support per cap payments for the elders because this benefits all elders, including those living outside the service area.
We will support our youth programs and their budgets. Unfortunately, our youth budget has been reduced. Dexter and I plan to reinstate our youth budget. Expansion for our youth activities should be in the works, not program cuts. Although the youth program has been significantly cut for 2009, our director is optimistic and meets every week with our youth. They practice cultural, social, and recreational activities. We have a girls and boys basketball team. Every year they go on a jiimaan journey. Dexter and I support per cap payments for the youth. This annual payment is counted on by our Tribal families. We will do what we can to protect the youth program budget and per caps.
The continued support and enhancement of our elders and youth programs must be a continued priority for our Tribe. The knowledge from our elders and their ancestors is passed on to our youth. The youth diversify and utilize modern technologies while practicing traditions from long ago. Continuing this circle will assist in keeping our Tribal identity, now and for the next seven generations.
Respectfully, Ken Harrington