LET THE BELLS OF FREEDOM RING - Lakota group secedes from U.S.
by Bill Harlan,
Rapid City Journal Staff
Thursday, December 20th 2007
LET THE BELLS OF FREEDOM RING - Lakota group secedes from U.S.
534 COMMENTS AS OF 13TH AUGUST 2008
Political activist Russell Means, a founder of the American Indian Movement, says he and other members of Lakota tribes have renounced treaties and are withdrawing from the United States.
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"We are now a free country and independent of the United States of America," Means said in a telephone interview. "This is all completely legal."
Means said a Lakota delegation on Monday delivered a statement of "unilateral withdrawal" from the United States to the U.S. State Department in Washington.
The State Department did not respond. "That'll take some time," Means said.
Meanwhile, the delegation has delivered copies of the letter to the embassies of Bolivia, Venezuela, Chile and South Africa. "We're asking for recognition," Means said, adding that Ireland and East Timor are "very interested" in the declaration.
Other countries will get copies of the same declaration, which Means said also would be delivered to the United Nations and to state and county governments covered by treaties, including treaties signed in 1851 and 1868. "We're willing to negotiate with any American political entity," Means said.
The United States could face international pressure if it doesn't agree to negotiate, Means said. "The United State of America is an outlaw nation, we now know. We've understood that as a people for 155 years."
Means also said his group would file liens on property in parts of South Dakota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Montana and Wyoming that were illegally homesteaded.
The Web site for the declaration, "Lakota Freedom," briefly crashed Thursday as wire services picked up the story and the server was overwhelmed, Means said.
Delegation member Phyllis Young said in an online statement: "We are not trying to embarrass the United States. We are here to continue the struggle for our children and grandchildren." Young was an organizer of Women of All Red Nations.
Other members of the delegation include Rapid City-area activist Duane Martin Sr. and Gary Rowland, a leader of the Chief Big Foot Riders.
Means said anyone could live in the Lakota Nation, tax free, as long as they renounced their U.S. citizenship. The nation would issue drivers licenses and passports, but each community would be independent. "It will be the epitome of individual liberty, with community control," Means said.
To make his case, Means cited several articles of the U.S. Constitution, the Vienna Convention on the Law of Treaties and a recent nonbinding U.N. resolution on the rights of indigenous people.
He thinks there will be international pressure. "If the U.S. violates the law, the whole world will know it," Means said.
Means' group is based in Porcupine on Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.
It is not an agency or branch of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. Means ran unsuccessfully for president of the tribe in 2006.
Lakota tribes have long claimed that the U.S. government stole land guaranteed by treaties -- especially in western South Dakota. "The Missouri River is ours, and so are the Black Hills," Means said.
A U.S. Supreme Court decision in 1980 awarded the tribes $122 million as compensation, but the court did not award land. The Lakota have refused the settlement. (As interest accrues, the unclaimed award is approaching $1 billion.)
In the late 1980s, then-Sen. Bill Bradley of New Jersey introduced legislation to return federal land to the tribes, and California millionaire Phil Stevens also tried to win support for a proposal to return the Black Hills to the Lakota.
Contact Bill Harlan at 394-8424 or bill.harlan @ rapidcityjournal.com
Link to this article: http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/articles/2007/12/20/news/local/doc476a99...
534 COMMENTS
Lakota oyate wrote on Jul 9, 2008 10:53 AM:
" Do you people even know what you are saying? White people say the Natives should be greatful?.. for what! killing our ancestors, exposing our people to alcohol, crime and drugs! last but not leats trying to buy the paha sapa for money? that is like them trying to buy a house you are living in.
this is ridiculous. I am a lakota wiyan and i will remain a lakota woman. despite the things the "europeans" did to try and make us white they failed and they will continue to fail. For those of you who think that the lakota are a Independant nation you are wrong. white people take our children away. We as lakotas' are judged because we act like the white man. I am aslo American in white terms. White people came from britian and eslewhere, they were not born here, they just escaped here so they can have religious freedom, well do you critize them? columbus is considered a heroe for Discovering America. How can one take credit for thast of which they did not do. that would be like me saying i invented the telephone.
this land was ours to begin with. The united states have continuously broken treaties. "
John Dalmas wrote on Jun 12, 2008 6:35 PM:
" What kind of foolishness is this? They expect us to be HONEST after all these years? The next thing you know, someone will demand that Israel get honest with Palestine!
John "
551 wrote on Mar 14, 2008 3:48 PM:
" After 550 replies I've decided to say my piece. I am a Native American Indian (DINE) or Navajo if you will. I Know Russell Means and also a good many people in PineRidge and Rosebud. My Children are 1\2 Dine and !\2 Rosebud Lakota. My Takojas or Grandchildren are enrolled in the Rosebud Lakota Nation. Non of my family members nor my childrens Lakota ralatives have EVER recieved a government check EXCEPT for the Federal Income Tax Checks which I and Millions of Americans receive once a year IF we file for it. Nor have we ever received a Tribal paycheck from either tribe. We All Work (except for the school age children and young ones)and pay our own bills. We have friends who are white, black oriental,mexican, among other of our Native brothers and sisters. We vote in State,National, and Tribal elections. We do not receive charities from churches or other charitable organizations but do give monies to several Native and National organizations and still give of our tithes to the church which we attend in Mission S.D. We DO NOT support Russell Means or the Republic of Lakotah as my Wife's Lakota people also Do Not support that man. Many of you who do not know about the treaties made between the various Indian Nations do not understand the complexities of those documents made by the government of the United States with these Nations. So commenting on an issue which you know nothing about is worthless and a waste of time. When great events in history occurs we want to remember that event and many Holidays began because of these events. But when shameful events happen we tend to Forget and or sweep it under the proverbial carpet. I would encourage all to Learn about one another and respect one's right to their opinions. We cannot force our beliefs or opinions on one another. As for Russell Means, before you become entranced with his rhetoric do some research on the man. Not just his website, but check the facts, visit the Reservation town of Porcupine and Look for the Immersion School. talk with the residents of that and other communities and then you will get the real picture of who this "Leader" is. Before you donate your hard earned money check to see just how much really benefits his tribe. You just might see through the smoke screen and the Hollywood acting. Yes our people are poor. But wealth is not everything. We are rich in our families and culture. Come to South Dakota, see with your own eyes and then make up your mind. Don't trust all news accounts or activist who say that they speak for all one people and get donations but give nothing to those people which thay proclaim to represent. Not all Whites in S.D. hate Indians and not ALL Indians hate Whites. But there is racism on both sides because of misunderstanding and lack of communication and compassion and the unwillingness to learn from our mistakes. I write this with compassion for all and a good heart and with PEACE to ALL Nations and ALL people. "
littsioux wrote on Mar 12, 2008 8:29 AM:
" I would like nothing more than for my grandmothers people my people to become a sovereign people but who is this one you call [Means ] I have not heard of him until now from what I have heard he dose not speak for all of the Lakota Sioux people so who is this man. "
Virgil Soule wrote on Feb 26, 2008 7:47 AM:
" I'm coming into this discussion a little late and everyone else has probably lost interest and moved on. Nevertheless, I'd like to throw some things out to see what response we get.
First, I don't understand what Russell Means is seceding from. As I recall, the tribes - Lakota/Dakota, Navaho, or whoever - were treated as separate nations by the US Government, hence the various treaties placing them on reservation lands. Unless that has changed, the tribes as entities are not part of the US and therefore the idea of secession has no meaning. Individually, Indians or Native Americans or whatever are US citizens and can live anywhere they want in the US. It doesn't sound like Mr. Means is renouncing his citizenship, however. Surely, Mr. Means is not talking about abrogating the treaties and resuming hostilities between the Sioux Nation and the US Government.
Second, the reservations are on Federal lands, so where is Mr. Means going to secede to? The treaties were really surrender documents. By agreeing to live on the reservations, the Indians gave up all claims to their ancestral lands. The tribes are probably separate nations in name only. The Federal Government's long term strategy is probably to simply wait until the Indians die off or lose interest and leave the reservations. The ensuing land sales will be a thing to behold. I'm sure.
I think the various tribes should petition the government to give the reservation lands to them. This would get them out from under the Bureau of Indian Affairs. If they retain their status as separate nations, they will need to sign on to the North American Free Trade Agreement and negotiate new border control treaties with the US.
OR, the tribes could join the Union as new states. This would place them under the protection of the Constitution and would give them direct representation in the Congress. As states, the tribes would be free to govern themselves as they please. For industry, the Lakota/Dakota could restore the prairie lands and grow buffalo. Buffalo meat is superior to beef, I'm told.
This is just off the top of my head and may be completely far-fetched, but I thought I would toss it out and see what comes back.
Virgil H. Soule
Frederick, MD "
You have to be kidding me wrote on Jan 28, 2008 7:34 PM:
" If this is what they want give it to them along with everything else that goes along with being a foriegn country, like passports to come off the rez , no valid drivers license to drive in the USA , no US currency , the basics find their own like gas , oil , food , electricity , telephone , WELFARE to mention just a few. So it means cut them off completely and let them see how much white america does for them. "
Soul in Flight 77 wrote on Jan 28, 2008 10:29 AM:
" This is a very heated issue. I am on the side of the people who actually want to gain independence from their oppressors. Yes, I am referring to the white majority who run the country! I, myself am white, but I see things with open eyes and a clear head. Russell Means may not have done this in a matter that pleases everyone, but he is doing what he believes is right and is in the best interest of the people that he fights for. If they don't approve, they don't have to associate with his ideals. The Lakota people who don't want this shouldn't be embarrassed by someone who is trying to fight for their rights. If they don't approve of the way he speaks for them, then they should get involved. I know, easier said than done. But if you don't stand up for yourself you will become oppressed by the beliefs that you do not share with others of your community. And from there it is a long road out of that pit. I believe in the integrity and the conviction with which Mr. Means states his case. Native American tribes all over this nation were cheated out of what was due them. I agree with Means' statement that we have become an "outlaw country", as we have lost favor with many other nations, as well as with our own people. I hope for a peaceful resolution to the Lakota Nation issue and hope that they will come to an agreement amongst themselves and with the U.S. Hold together, as division is a very powerful, destructive weapon. "
casey van wrote on Jan 12, 2008 6:04 PM:
" This is the greatest news story yet.
more will succeed as the USA does not represent the people in the Union and rather only the rich marginalized capital control industrialists at the top. So the people leave the union, and what is left
a mere mere skeleton, nothing of su bstance. ..
good for lakota. !!! "
Scott or Golanv Igvyi wrote on Jan 7, 2008 10:39 AM:
" We here in Nebraska Support the withdrawal regardless who is or is not in charge.We are a Native, (Yankton Sioux,Northern Ponca, Mi'kmaq, and Cherokee)Family who own land within the Boundaries set. We are in full support of withdrawal from the US dictatorship! The wealthy power mongers may put a new puppet in charge every 4 to 8 years but it changes nothing. Our Constitution was trashed years ago with the right to keep and bear arms crushed by the Brady law, and the federalization of the militia into army reserve. Any of you who think your free just try going out of the country without a passport, or drive around with a concealed weapon for protection. see what happens if you get caught. Next time someone goes off in a classroom or mall and starts killing see how long it takes to stop them with unarmed citizens. Ducks in a shooting gallery man! When you realize this loss of freedom and try taking Thomas Jefferson's advise about revolution being the only way to keep the republic free and safe see how easy it will be with no weapons in the private sector. The Lakotah fight for freedom and independence is a fight many of you will wish had been won when you realize the Government has stolen yours also. I am done now you can go back to watching TV or playing video games and ignoring the theft of your human rights. "
Buh Bye! wrote on Jan 4, 2008 9:07 PM:
" Why should anyone even get worked up over this? So what? Who cares? There really is no practical implication to this whole stunt. So, I'll just say buh bye, see you later, don't let the door hit you in the rear end, hope your new country does well. Buh bye... "
Renunciation of U.S. Citizenship by Persons Claiming a Right of Residence in U.S. wrote on Jan 4, 2008 8:32 PM:
"
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Renunciation of U.S. Citizenship by Persons Claiming a Right of Residence in the U.S.
RENUNCIATION OF U.S. CITIZENSHIP BY PERSONS CLAIMING A RIGHT OF RESIDENCE IN THE UNITED STATES
Section 349(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act [8 U.S.C. 1481] governs how a U.S. citizen shall lose U.S. nationality. Section 349(a) states:
A person who is a national of the United States whether, by birth or naturalization, shall lose his nationality by voluntarily performing any of the following acts with the intention of relinquishing United States nationality:
(5) making a formal renunciation of nationality before a diplomatic or consular officer of the United States in a foreign state, in such form as may be prescribed by the Secretary of State; or
(6) making in the United States a formal written renunciation of nationality in such form as may be prescribed by, and before such officer as may be designated by, the Attorney General, whenever the United States shall be in a state of war and the Attorney General shall approve such renunciation as not contrary to the interests of national defense.
Renunciation is the most unequivocal way in which a person can manifest an intention to relinquish U.S. citizenship. Those contemplating a renunciation of U.S. citizenship should understand that renunciation is irrevocable, except as provided in Section 351 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and cannot be cancelled or set aside absent successful administrative or judicial appeal. Consequently, renunciation of U.S. citizenship is not a step to be taken lightly. Because renunciation is a serious matter to be undertaken soberly and advisedly, persons contemplating renunciation are advised by U.S. consular officers to consider the matter carefully and, if they chose to proceed, to come back to the U.S. embassy or consulate after a period of reflection.
In accordance with Section 358 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, while persons seeking to renounce U.S. citizenship submit the necessary documentation to a U.S. consular officer at a U.S. Foreign Service post abroad, the decision whether to approve the renunciation is made by the Department of State in Washington, D.C. Accordingly, unless and until a certificate of loss of nationality is approved by the U.S. Department of State, the oath of renunciation, even though signed by the individual is not/not legally effective in terminating the person's U.S. citizenship.
In order for a renunciation under Section 349(a)(5) to be effective, all of the conditions of the statute must be met. In other words, a person wishing to renounce American citizenship must appear in person and sign an oath of renunciation before a U.S. consular or diplomatic officer abroad, generally at an American Embassy or Consulate. Moreover, Section 349(b) of the Act provides that:
Any person who commits or performs, or who has committed or performed, any act of expatriation under the provisions of this of any other Act shall be presumed to have done so voluntrily, but such presumption may be rebutted upon a showing, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the act or acts committed or performed were not done voluntarily.
In addition, please be aware that:
The U.S. Department of State has concluded that the intention to relinquish U.S. nationality required for purposes of finding loss of nationality for the purposes of Section 349(a) of the INA does not exist where a renunciant plans or claims a right to continue to reside in the United States, unless the renunciant demonstrates that residence will be as an alien documented properly under U.S. law.
Renunciations which are not in the form prescribed by the Secretary of State have no legal effect. Because of the way in which Section 349(a)(5) is written and interpreted, Americans cannot effectively renounce their citizenship by mail, through an agent, or while in the United States. Section 349(a)(6) provides for renunciation of United States citizenship under certain circumstances in the United States when the United States is in a state of war. Such a state does not currently exist. Questions concerning renunciation of American citizenship under Section 349(a)(6) should be addressed to the Attorney General.
Persons who contemplate renunciation of U.S. nationality should be aware that, unless they already possess a foreign nationality or are assured of acquiring another nationality shortly after completing their renunciation, severe hardship to them could result. In the absence of a second nationality, those individuals would become stateless. As stateless persons, they would not be entitled to the protection of any government. They might also find it difficult or impossible to travel as they would probably not be entitled to a passport from any country. Further, a person who has renounced U.S. nationality will be required to apply for a visa to travel to the United States, just as other aliens do. If found ineligible for a visa, a renunciant could be permanently barred from the United States. Renunciation of American citizenship does not necessarily prevent a former citizen's deportation from a foreign country to the United States.
Persons considering renunciation should also be aware that the fact that they have renounced U.S. nationality may have no effect whatsoever on their U.S. tax or military service obligations. Nor will it allow them to escape possible prosecution for crimes which they may have committed in the United States, or repayment of financial obligations previously incurred in the United States. Questions about these matters should be directed to the government agency concerned.
Those persons who, after careful consideration of the contents of this letter and its enclosures, desire to renounce U.S. citizenship may contact the U.S. embassy to make an appointment, bearing in mind that they will be asked to demonstrate poof of foreign residence, or failing that, evidence that they intend to enter the United States as an alien with documentation t that effect. Moreover, a person in possession of a U.S. passport will be asked to submit that passport to the U.S. consular officer for cancellation. If the certificate of loss of nationality is approved by the U.S. Department of State, the individual's name will be entered in the Department's name check system and they will be ineligible for U.S. passports in the future.
As previously stated, persons contemplating renunciation of U.S. citizenship are reminded that renunciation is irrevocable, except as provided in Section 351 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, and cannot be cancelled or set aside absent successful administrative or judicial appeal.
If you have any questions, contact a U.S. consular officer at the U.S. embassy or the Department of State (CA/OCS/PRI) at 202-647-3666.
5/98
"
re: itsjusmyopinion wrote on Jan 4, 2008 7:36 PM:
" i believe those are lemmings you are talking about...but either way i agree means needs to go !!!! "
namby pamby wrote on Jan 4, 2008 6:49 PM:
" If they want to secede, by all means let them. They just have to BUY their own land or move out of the country. Hopefully the latter. That will be an even bigger relief on taxpayers pockets. So long! Good knowing ya'! "
Treaties are contracts between sovereign nations wrote on Jan 4, 2008 6:27 PM:
" The Treaties between the various Tribal Nations and the United States of America are questioned on their validity because of the tactics used by the U.S. in procuring the necessary signatures or the "X" mark by touching of the pen. If three fourths of the adult male Tribal members were to have signed or marked their "X" by touching of the pen for the Treaties, then that requirement was not met in the vast majority of the Treaties with the Tribes.
And Russel Means and his handful Lakota which comprises his group is not an individual Tribe nor were they ever recognized as a sovereign nation by the U.S. Now if you look at any Treaty that involved the Oglalas, those Treaties were recognized as a Sovereign Nation and I doubt Russel Means can act or negotiate with the United States Government because Russel Means and his group is not a sovereign entity.
So I don't see how Russel Means and the media think that Russel Means is acting on behalf of all Lakotas. Russel Means has no authority to do that. Russel Means and his handful of followers are acting under their own intiative and the U.S. more then likely will not even answer Russel Means and his statement of "unilateral withdrawal" from the United States. If any talks were to be held between sovereigns, it would be the entire Oglala Sioux Tribe and its members who would act for their sovereign nation. Russel Means is grandstanding for attention, but Means has no authority to act as a sovereign nation because Russel Means is only one Oglala Sioux Tribal Member.
The rest of you can express your opinion, but this is how I see it. Thanks. "
Those of you wrote on Jan 4, 2008 5:44 PM:
" Those of you that do not appreciate Russel Means and his right to speak, write, you always have the option to move somewhere else and see if the grass is greener in those areas.
Good luck! "
To: Me and Mine wrote on Jan 4, 2008 11:36 AM:
" I think, much like the Rapid City Police Department, the leaders of the Lakota fear Russell Means. He is a master of intimidation. "
RE: Silly People wrote on Jan 4, 2008 11:24 AM:
" Bingo! However Russell Means did achieve his objective; media attention. Now he will rake in the money on his paid speaking engagements. To see the local Lokata people reject him restored my confidence that the Lokata can manage their own affairs. (Not that they needed my approval) "
To: wrote on Jan 4, 2008 11:09 AM:
" You incorrectly identify "dominant group" members based on their skin color when the dominant group is actually the wealthy. Wouldn't Affirmative Action serve this country better if it were based on socioeconomic status rather than skin color? It seems odd that the son of a wealthy black doctor should recieve free college tuition while the son of a poor white factory worker should struggles to pull himself out of poverty. Any policy driven by racial preference is wrong. The racial preferences afforded by Affirmative Action is nothing more than thinly vieled discrimination. "
ME AND MINE wrote on Jan 4, 2008 10:58 AM:
" WHEN WILL THE TRIBAL COUNCIL, NOT JUST THE PRESIDENT, ISSUE A STATEMENT CONCERNING THIS ISSUE?!! DO YOUR JOBS OVERSEEING OUR RIGHTS AND MAKE A PUBLIC STATEMENT/STAND. AN OFFICIAL STATEMENT WILL ANSWER SOME OF THE PATHETIC, IGNORANT AND EXPECTED COMMENTS MADE BY SOME WASICUS. JUST ANOTHER EXAMPLE OF SOME WHITE MEN SHOWING THEIR IGNORANCE. I CAN SIT HERE AND JUST SEE THEIR RED FACES AS THEY IGLUCANZEKA. SOMEONE NEEDS TO CHECK THEIR BLOOD PRESSURES, POOR THINGS!! "
Re; Human Rights To All wrote on Jan 4, 2008 9:23 AM:
" It doesnt matter how he loses the elections...the fact remains...the majority of people on Pine Ridge do NOT vote for him, and majority rules, at this point, whether you like it or not! There are ways to get a point across, and to inititate changes for the Lakota people, but radical, ridiculous actions like this are not it. PEOPLE, PLEASE KEEP IN MIND THE REAL ISSUE HERE: This small group of people have taken on the assumption that they have to right to speak for each and every Lakota person, which is a philosophy that is purely European! Since when is this a Lakota way of life? No matter what Russell Means does, or believes, or thinks, he did this is a VERY BAD WAY, and that seems to be a recurring theme in his life. Why didnt he come to the tribe and at least TELL people about this? Instead, we learn about it through rumor and the Rapid City Journal. He is acting just like the old BIA Superintendants, assuming he is in charge of what is best for the lil Indian people on "HIS" reservation. Get your head out of his smoke, and look at this clearly. Its ridiculous, embarassing, and comes with some very serious consequences that we, as Lakota people, have yet to realize. To all you hot shot lawyers out there...is there a way to file suit against Russell Means for doing something of this magnitude, on behalf of people he has no right to speak for? "
Silly People wrote on Jan 4, 2008 8:58 AM:
" The Lakota are and will always be part of the U.S. No matter how much you hope, wish and pray this would happen...They aren't leaving; They aren't going to be fenced in; you will not go to war with Them.
Reply to Work Work: I suggest that you get over and move on also. The US entered into a Peace Treaty with the Tribes. Although you think the US has given Natives enough, the US will continue to give what they owe to the Tribes because of the written agreements. These Treaties were signed before you or I existed, it was not our decision, it is just reality.
"
RE: Ryan - Go ahead and contact Russel Meansto9 wrote on Jan 4, 2008 7:21 AM:
" I sure hope Russel Means and Ryan get together to discuss and air their differences. I know Ryan would not be afraid to address his leader, Russel Means, face to face to fully help each other understand the realities of today.
And who knows, Ryan may even want to join Russel Means' breakaway group and form an excellent bond. "
PINE RIDGER wrote on Jan 4, 2008 7:00 AM:
" To Nihilist: ...but, but, but what about radical Islam? You know, *the Religion of Peace*? Huh? Huh? Huh? "
Re: reply to work work wrote on Jan 4, 2008 5:28 AM:
" Anyone who thinks a wind farm is going to make billions must have some garbage clouding their vision. "
Re: Affirmative Action wrote on Jan 3, 2008 9:15 PM:
" Hopefully you can understand the difference between dominant and non-dominant groups as it pertains to Affirmative Action. The dominant group in America are of White (Caucasian) heritage at 237,854,954 people in the U.S. The dominant group has been making all the rules in employment and education. And Affirmative Action was designed to open the field in education and employment that has been dominated by the dominant group (Whites).
And because of past discrimination by the dominant group (Whites) against non-dominant groups (minorities) Affirmative Action was introduced to help rectify some of the wrongs in the past from the dominant group (Whites) in those areas of education and employment.
Easy to understand, just open your mind.
Thanks.
"
Nihilist wrote on Jan 3, 2008 8:58 PM:
" Give the Black Hills to the Lakota? What about the Cheyenne, Hidatsa, Arikaree, and Kiowa? They were there before the Lakota. Who knows who was there before them, maybe the Beringians and proto-Aztecs. While we're at it, give England back to the Celts, Rome back to the Romans, and Israel back to the Israelites-oops, already tried that! Bush will like it, since it'll gurantee unending war... "
Human Rights to all wrote on Jan 3, 2008 7:41 PM:
" Russ Means has run for President before on the Pine Ridge however since our voting process has two stages a primary and a general, he does very well in the primary (usually about 10 candidates for pres), near the top by a slim margin or at the top, however once the general is put into action all who voted for the remaining 8 or so band up and vote against him. He usually loses by a short margin. Bottom line Russell Means has a large constituency on Pine Ridge and a great deal of people who believe in his politics. Someone must keep the beacon of hope alive for all of us to fallow, someone must remind us of the difference between a shackles and chains and independance. "
Buchanan wrote on Jan 3, 2008 7:13 PM:
" Have they left yet? "
reply to work work wrote on Jan 3, 2008 4:40 PM:
" what??? or you really serious. Did you know that the mineral rights were also stolen from the native american territories, mineral include coal, oil, uranium, and gold. Your government did not giveus anything we let you have it because you are greedy. Tell me that you can harness an atom and I will tell you what your government has given me.
I work I pay federal and tribal taxes. Just because I dont have to pay state tax except when I go shopping doesnt mean that your government has given me a tiara.
Yeah, why dont you do let us secede how much of your soldiers would you lose?? How much land would you lose because almost all tribes are in litigation with the government for mismanagement.
My tribe does have its own government therefore is considered soveriegn with the right to kick non natives out of a reservation. can you kick me out of the state?? I dont think so! Out of america??I dont think so. The states have negotiate with tribes.
However, my native brothers and sisters are out there defending this country so you can bad mouth their tribe. So, if this was to occur, many of our warriors would come back to the rez!! then you and many others would be drafted. Then maybe our tribes can become allies with other countries.
You can have the land. When windfarms are built and our tribes make billions. youll be on the rez looking for a job.
"
Lakota Wiyan wrote on Jan 3, 2008 3:36 PM:
" Does this mean that Russell Means has a movie coming out soon, that he needs the publicity for? Seems like he only comes back to SD to make a "splash" when it benefits him in some way! What I dont get is why these guys are subscribing to "white man's " concept of what a Nation is. Isnt this turning their backs on the true Lakota philosphy of government? And since when does Russell Means, and of ALL people on the rez, Gary ROWLAND (hee hee hee hee) have the dictatorship to require anyone to denounce any citizenship of any kind?? The saddest part of all of this, these guys are probably sitting somewhere pumping each other full of hot air, not realizing the damage that even the attempt of this could cause to so many people. Heck, Im OST member, and I would NEVER denounce my US Citizenship. I have to many relatives in the military now, and in the past, who fought many wars, and served and sacrificed so much so that me and my children, and their children, and on and on, could have the opportunity to become whatever we want. These people want nothing but Native people UNDER THEIR CONTROL, and that should never happen. I read what latin rage said, and laughed so hard! We didnt want Russell to be our President, and said it LOUD AND CLEAR...so who would ever assume that he would/could speak for us now? How embarassing. Go sit down with your little skinny braids and think of OTHER ways to sell out in Hollywood, Russel "Tonto" Means! Oh, but thanks for the good laugh, you old Has Been! "
who are the idiots wrote on Jan 3, 2008 2:41 PM:
" that keep funding Russell Means' travels all over the world? I keep reading about where he turns up and making an idiot of himself, but I keep wondering, where is he getting his money to keep doing this. To my knowledge he isn't wealthy, so some idiot(s) must be taking care of his expenses! "
Affirmative Action wrote on Jan 3, 2008 11:02 AM:
" Wrong! Affirmative Action fits the definition of Institutional Racism to a T. Whether you see it as such depends on which side of the entitlement fence you sit on. When a job posting begins with "seeking minority applicant", I don't see it as opportunity, I see it as exclusion. Just because it is government sanctioned, does not mean it is not descrimination. "
Work Work wrote on Jan 3, 2008 10:45 AM:
" Let them secede. Just make them generate their own power and organize their own government. Does this guy realize how many of the U.S. public utilities would have to be taken over by the tribes? The US has given the native enough. Get over it and move on like every other people that lost a war. Keep your traditions but realize the land will never bee returned...not my decision just reality. "
Inside South Dakota, near Ma & Pa Kettle's wrote on Jan 2, 2008 7:56 PM:
" Ma: "Pa, Ya herd of Russel Means?"
Pa: "Yup, Ma, I sawed his pitcher in the paper once."
Ma: "Well Pa, tell me what ya thunk."
Pa: "He scared me."
Ma: "Why Pa?"
Pa: "Cuz he just looked mean."
Ma: "Remember what your cousin said of Janklow?" "Looks ain't everythin."
Pa: "Ma, I reckon, you right. Russel Means prolly has alot to say."
Ma: "Darn right, I wonder if we coud be part of his withdrawal group?"
Siged Ma & Pa Kettle
Within South Dakota "
What do statistics mean? wrote on Jan 2, 2008 5:01 PM:
" According to a population survey done in 2005 there were 237,854,954 (that's two hundred thirty seven million, eight hundred fifty four thousand, nine hundred fifty four) people in America that are classified as White or Caucasian. Hispanic or Latino is next with 42,687,224 people under that race. Then comes Black or African American at 37,909,341 individuals that claim that ancestry. Asians constitute 12,687,472 members. Last are the American Indian and Alaska Native population at 2,863,001 (two million, eight hundred sixty three thousand and one).
Who is the DOMINANT RACE in America? Answer is: Whites at 237,854,954 people indicating their race as White or Caucasian.
The Dominant race controls all aspects of life in America. Education, Judicial, Senate, House of Representatives, Banking, Law Enforcement, Cities, federal government, businesses, pretty much all aspects of life are controlled by the dominant White society.
One of the Rapid Replies was trying to say that American Indians with their population of 2,863,001 people has the potential of dictating all areas of life in America and are racist against Whites because of that. That's nonsense. Any level headed individual can look at the statistical numbers for populations in America and understand that the number 237,854,954 is far greater than 2,863,001.
No contest, the dominant group or race has won. It is their ballgame and the rules are made by them too.
America is in denial, when it wants to look the other way about racism. Intelligent, logical thinking people in all races are the key to understanding what the dominant race has allowed the United States to become. Ask yourself a very simple question and come up with your own answer. The question is, Do you believe that some races are by nature superior to others? Therein lies the problem. What do you want to do about it? Thanks. "
Affirmative Action IS NOT Institutionalized Racism wrote on Jan 2, 2008 3:56 PM:
" AFFIRMATIVE ACTION refers to policies intended to promote access to education or employment aimed at a historically socio-politically non-dominant group (typically, minority men or women of all races). Motivation for affirmative action policies is to redress the effects of past and current wrongful discrimination and to encourage public institutions such as universities, hospitals and police forces to be more representative of the population.
This is commonly achieved through targeted recruitment programs, by preferential treatment given to applicants from socio-politically disadvantaged groups and in some cases through the use of quotas.
"
Another South Dakotan wrote on Jan 2, 2008 3:41 PM:
" Readers, please don't think that all non-Indians in SD have attitudes like Yeah Right and others... Not all of us in this area contribute to the backwards thinking; not all of us had racist views bred into us.
Yeah Right, not every Native American falls into your catagories, not all NA receive food stamps, welfare, "free money"; some are actually educated, have decent jobs, grow their own food and livestock (imagine that!).
Clearly, Means and his bunch don't have the support of Lakotas. They are just there to stir up the pot to get attention...like the many non-Indians posting here. Many have also used this reply to post racist comments. There's more than one who posted that they want to go to war with "them" again...like Ryan, one white man and I live in the Hills.
Lakota Nation is not going to break away from the US; so your dreams of fencing-in Native Americans are just that...dreams.
"
To: latin_rage wrote on Jan 2, 2008 3:20 PM:
" Finally a voice of reason. I'm sure many if not most Lakota share your view, but unlike Russell Means, they don't have the media access to voice their opposition. Perhaps a formal letter from the true lakota leaders to Russell Means will convince him how insignificant he is. "
nuwezi wrote on Jan 2, 2008 2:04 PM:
" I am not proud that Russell is the spokesperson for this. To me as a young lakota mother it is not my place to dishonor my elders at any expense. but i just want to clarify that there many treaty signers and rus was or his bloodline is not one. He doesnt have a real lakota last name. He is an elder i will respect him as far as that but he will not be the advocate for my sons or my duaghters. The elder women in my district, the katelas, the tokalas, all of the nacas, and the ira government did not agree on this and by traditional law if they did not come to a consensus than it is a dead issue. How dare he do something like that....maybe he couldnt find a good movie role so he has to start a ruckus just to get attention.
For everyone, we are a soveriegn nation, we are not affected by PL 280, if we did abolish the treaties than all non natives would be shipped back to their ancestors country of origin. This whole continent is native (first nations in canada, tribes in the us, and latins in mexico) this continent didnt have pale skins tell recently.
anyway, we can get along however, our racism is a result of reaction. I mean ur racist remarks and actions like slavery, termination act, relocation act, slavery, immigration, etc....its our racist reactions from your racist actions, lmao. "
Yeah right... wrote on Jan 2, 2008 1:34 PM:
" I say let them break away. Then let the US build a fence around their territory, take away their welfare checks, their food stamps, all their subsidies and free money. You want to be a sovereign nation? Be one! Issue passports and drivers licenses, grow your own food, raise your own livestock, pay import taxes, maintain your roads. Build your own hospitals and please do not cross the border to try and get free medical care, do it on your own. Oh, how will you get items to your nation? Surely you do not think you can just fly through US airspace do you? Is their Lakota land touching an ocean that links all Lakota territories together? NO.
Good idea, I say let them do their thing, then let the US Government turn the screws and see how many Native Americans flee the tyranny of the white man to live in this new nation, with no US citizenship, but hey... They do not have to pay taxes!!! What a bargain. "
latin_rage wrote on Jan 2, 2008 12:55 PM:
" First of all I want to say that in no way shape or form does this disillusiontional, arrogant, sad little man and his friends speak for my children who just so happen to be Lakota.The state department didnt respond to his comments not because of political pressure but because they have better things to do then to play this silly game with a man who should be hosptialized. The Lakota people made it perfectly clear that they did not want him speaking for them when they refused to elect him President. So why is he still claiming to be speaking for those that want nothing to do with him? Secondly he claims that the United States is an outlaw nation well as a US citizen, a father of Lakota children, and as a Marine I find that statment very insulting. If it wasnt for my family: Vietnam, Korea, Dessert Storm, WWI and WWII, Enduring Freedom and countless of other families out there that are proud to be Americans, Proud to be who they are and to be were they are from and answer the call of duty given to them by this country this pettly little man would not be free enough today to make this claim. Okay if this is an oulaw nation then why does he continue to read the laws of this county, why does he continue to accept the paychecks and why does he continue to us the legal currency of this county. "
Re:What's in a Name wrote on Jan 2, 2008 12:34 PM:
" I have lived many places and I have been mistreated down south because they thought I was a Mexican. When I told them I was Native American they were ok with me. When I have traveled I have felt some racism but mostly it has been in and around the Pine Ridge Reservation. People seem to be more racist against Natives than in other places. But, on the other side of the coin I know people can not stand white people or African Americans on the Reservation. I have friends in all races of people. I like what someone said, "I will not base not liking someone because of their skin color when I can get to know them and really hate them." We all value things differently and we also value things the same. I have come to a place in my life when I can truly understand we must seek to bring the same values we share together. Lakota have fought for this country alongside your sons. We need know we value family as well as small town values. Taking care of each others children. Helping our communities to become healthy so we can feed our families. These are goals that must strive for and not to make each other something the other can never become. I know Native People who are culturally white and I know whites that are culturally Native. We are people and people make mistakes. I ask you this my friend, when I come into your town I ask you treat me as a human. Doesn't the Bible speak of loving our neighbors as ourselves. I know the Lakota are to respect all living things and that includes other people. Thank You very much. "
Institutional Racism wrote on Jan 2, 2008 11:56 AM:
" A term coined by the Black Panther Party in 1960. I think Affirmative Action is an excellent example of institutional racism. "
What's in a Name wrote on Jan 2, 2008 11:45 AM:
" So according to a previous post, minority groups can continue to cultivate hatred with a clear conscience because racism is only bad when it is Institutional Racism. Because whites are in the majority in the US, we are the only race capable of being racist. Amazing how some groups will manipulate an idea in order to sterilize their own dirty laundry. "
To: RE: What I've Learned wrote on Jan 2, 2008 11:35 AM:
" Racism is racism. The term institutional racism is used by minority groups to absolve themselves of the very attitude they claim to abhor. If creating your own defenition relieves your guilt, then more power to you. Believing that racism is unique to particular race or social cast, then you are the reason it will never die. "
Leave Mount Rushmore out of the discussions wrote on Jan 2, 2008 11:18 AM:
" Mt. Rushmore has done more for the area, State, and Country than can ever be pondered by all of the what-ifers out there. The Native Americans should pool all of their resources and convince the tourist gougers over at Crazy Horse to get with the program and finish the carving. Sure, not everyone likes the idea, but what a place for Indians of all tribes and backgrounds to gather and be recognized. And many many thousands of tourists from back East would come here to hear the stories and experience the west and the Hills with the correct perspectives! The Crazy Horse complex is a big draw, probably second to Mount Rushmore, and there is lots of potential in this area for growth and platforms for debate and discussions. We can't do anything about what happened years ago. Thank God we are not still shooting each other like in the days of the Cowboys and Indians. Let's grow up and get along! "
Raven wrote on Jan 2, 2008 7:47 AM:
" I am not Lakota but am Native. I lived on a Lakota Rez ten years ago and some other reservations further west. I have known the Lakota spirituality for about 15 years, have gone to Sun Dances, Vision Quests, and Sweat Lodge.
I am all for the Lakota having their own land, especially Paha Sapa. It's not about money, it's about a sacred place that's been recognized as such long before Wasichu came and carved it up for yellow metal and defaced one whole mountain to create an idolatrous symbol of men from the east.
But I also have grave concerns. Anyone who's spent any amount of time on the Rez knows about the gang problems and the alcohol. When it comes to drinking it's not just Muskatel bought in Kilgore or valentine Neb. and bootlegged on the Rez (Rosebud) - it's also Lysol, hairspray and other poisons that the poorer people use to get drunk.
the teenage gangs walk around with golf clubs and baseball bats intimidating older more traditional folk, and drawing younger kids into their gang lifestyle.
Some Lakota might be upset that I blatantly tell the truth of what I witnessed and experienced but why not tell it? The Youth on the Rez should be learning the old ways, not adapting a lifestyle that smacks of inner city gangs. Talk about Wannabes.
I've heard some full blooded Lakota denounce the white men who came to the Sun Dances, or went up on Bear Butte. called them "Wannabe Indians." What's the problem if white people feel drawn to the Lakota ways and walk the good red road? Should we just let them keep on the black road and shut them off?
But at the same time I see the native Youth - not just lakota but other tribes as well who "wannabe" inner city gang members. these issues need to be addressed.
If the Lakota nation becomes a reality I hope that the leaders do address these issues and the elders who are spiritually wise begin to teach the old ways to all.
Get rid of the the gang mentality and the alcohol addiction and the entire Lakota nation will be a powerful and wise people once again. "
In 1899 the U.S. Supreme Court wrote on construing any treaty between U.S. and an Indian tribe wrote on Jan 2, 2008 6:59 AM:
" In 1899 the United States Supreme Court in considering a similar situation said:
"In construing any treaty between the United States and an Indian tribe, it must always (as was pointed out by the counsel for the appellees) be borne in mind that the negotiations for the treaty are conducted, on the part of the United States, an enlightened and powerful nation, by representatives skilled in diplomacy, masters of a written language, understanding the modes and forms of creating the various technical estates known to their law, and assisted by an interpreter [**14] employed by themselves; that the [*331] treaty is drawn up by them and in their own language; that the Indians, on the other hand, are a weak and dependent people, who have no written language and are wholly unfamiliar with all the forms of legal expression, and whose only knowledge of the terms in which the treaty is framed is that imparted to them by the interpreter employed by the United States; and that the treaty must therefore be construed, not according to the technical meaning of its words to learned lawyers, but in the sense in which they would naturally be understood by the Indians. Worcester v. Georgia, 31 U.S. 515, 6 Pet. 515 [8 L. Ed. 483]; The Kansas Indians, 72 U.S. 737, 5 Wall. 737, 760 [18 L. Ed. 667]; Choctaw Nation v. United States, 119 U.S. 1, 27, 28 [7 S. Ct. 75, 30 L. Ed. 306, 314, 315] . . . . 'The language used in treaties with the Indians should never be construed to their prejudice.' . . . 'How the words of the treaty were understood by this unlettered people, rather than their critical meaning, should form the rule of construction.'" n7
"
I live in the Hills wrote on Jan 2, 2008 6:47 AM:
" I live in the Hills and I can tell you that I am not going to support this so-called break away movement. Come try to take my land from me and see what happens! "
Dec. 20, 2007 the article was written by Sorcha Faal, and as reported to her Western Subscribers wrote on Jan 2, 2008 6:19 AM:
" The "Putin Threatens Recognition of Breakaway U.S. Lakota Sioux Indian Tribe" article was written December 20, 2007 by Sorcha Faal, and as reported to her Western Subscribers. Thank you. "
Russel Means does not speak for me wrote on Jan 2, 2008 5:59 AM:
" I am an enrolled Tribal member in South Dakota and Russel Means does not speak for me. Russel Means at one time did have many good ideas and lots of people followed him, but I think that those times are gone as they realized Russel Means is only interested in Russel Means.
He has never been able to win a Tribal or National election as an announced candidate. Russel Means does not play by the rules. He simply makes up the rules as he goes.
And so, to you Russel Means, I respect you as the Creator wants, but I will no longer follow you, since I have learned your ways.
I believe you should stick to being an actor as that may be your calling. You really are not a leader of the Lakota people as the ancestors envisioned. Thank you. "
1999 Press Release of the American Indian Movement Grand Governing Council wrote on Jan 2, 2008 5:43 AM:
"
AMERICAN INDIAN MOVEMENT GRAND GOVERNING COUNCIL
PRESS CONTACT: MINISTRY FOR INFORMATION
P.O. Box 13521
Minneapolis MN 55414
612/ 721-3914 . fax 612/ 721-7826
Email: aimggc@worldnet.att.net
Web Address: www.aimovement.org
PRESS STATEMENT
February 20, 1999
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
TO ALL NEWS ORGANIZATIONS WORLDWIDE
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On Sunday February 7, 1999 the Minneapolis Tribune and other news organizations nationwide carried a story filed by the Association Press Boston, MA Bureau entitled "Case Tests Legitimacy of Indian Courts"
In this article the Associated Press, again, erroneously identifies Russell Means as a "Long time leader of the Minneapolis-based American Indian Movement." This is not the first time that this has happened (see attachments, AP story filed on January 8, 1988 by their Fresno, California Bureau, and response from the American Indian Movement's Ministry for Information). This former personality who was previously associated with AIM resigned from the American Indian Movement at least six (6) times, the latest on January 8, 1988.
The American Indian Movement's Grand Governing Council repudiates Russell Mean's challenge to the jurisdiction and authority of the Dine (Navaho) Nation's Criminal Courts. His recent reckless mis-representation of the American Indian Movement's well established position supporting the sovereign authority and powers of Indian nation's governments plays into the hands of all the anti-Indian forces that want to erode the sovereignty of Indian nations.
In 1972 during the historic "Trail of Broken Treaties Campaign" (see AIM Archives in AIM's official website at aimovement.org) to Washington DC, the Denver Chapter of the American Indian Movement under the leadership of Alice Black Horse, Hunkpapa Dakota; Rod Skenandore, Blackfeet/Oneida; and Vernon Bellecourt, Ojibwe/Anishinabe, designed a bumper sticker entitled, "AIM for Sovereignty." This was long before any of our Indian or non-Indian writers, educators, academics, intellectuals, or tribal leaders understood the concept of sovereignty as it relates to the powers and authority of tribal governments and true self-determination.
Sovereignty, of course, has become the basis of all forms of development, be it the strengthening of Indian governments, court systems, law enforcement, educational institutions, and, yes, casinos and bingo halls which brought about an infusion of much needed capital and all forms of economic development. Today many of our tribal leaders and Russell Means have either forgotten or never understood this reality. They think that everything fell from the sky like mana. Perhaps one day someone, somewhere will say Megwitch (thank you) to the many sacrifices of the American Indian Movement.
The American Indian Movement has always supported all sovereign Indian nation's absolute authority and jurisdiction over all Indians and non-Indians alike who violate the laws of any sovereign native nation, be it the Dine (Navaho) Nation, or the Oglala Lakota Nation of which Russells Means is a member.
What is especially egregious, and outrageous about Russell Mean's violations of the laws of the Dine Nation is that he is charged with assault and battery against his father-in-law, Mr. Leon Grant who is a revered elder of both the Omaha and Dine Nation and is 80 years of age and has an artificial arm. We, of the American Indian Movement Grand Governing Council are no longer surprised by Russell's clownish antics. He continues to deceitfully mis-represent the American Indian Movement in order to deceive those peoples and organizations worldwide, who due to their goodwill, and support of the Indian cause may have already, or will contribute to his appeal through his personal web page where he solicits money for the Russell Means Philanthropy and AIM Club Membership in name of the American Indian Movement, and an "Immersion Indian School" that never existed, nor does it exist at this time.
Additionally, this is the same Russell Means who as Director of the Cleveland American Indian Movement filed a legitimate nine (9) million dollar lawsuit naming as defendant, Richard Jacobs, and the Cleveland Baseball Franchise due to their chief wahoo logo that promotes racism against Indian people.
Upon his first resignation from the Cleveland American Indian Movement, he directed his predecessor, Jerome Weitzel, a caucasion American, a wannabee now known as Jerome War Cloud whom on April 19, 1983 settled the suit out of court for $35,000, or 35,000 pieces of silver. When asked where the money went, Jerome Weitzel was very evasive as to where his $15,000 went, but divulged that Russell Means also received $15,000 which Russell now says went to a survival school which neither he, nor we, can substantiate.
If it were not for the fact that this settlement agreement is so ridiculous that it would not be upheld in any court, it would undermine the work of the National Coalition on Racism in Sports and Media, and all others working on this issue.
FOR IMPORTANT DOCUMENTATION, SEE THE OFFICIAL WEB PAGE OF THE AMERICAN INDIAN MOVEMENT GRAND GOVERNING COUNCIL (aimovement.org) SEE MINISTRY FOR INFORMATION ON AIM's PROFILE PAGE. WATCH FOR COUNCIL ON SECURITY AND INTELLIGENCE FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION.
"
To Putin Threatens Recognition of Breakaway US Lakota Sioux Indian Tribe wrote on Jan 2, 2008 2:16 AM:
" I would like to see the artical in print and not on the rumer mill, anyone can write that up. And for all those wanting to see racism alive and well come on up to Roberts County and sit in a Commissioners meeting and see how the gool ol boy's still get r done, it's no wonder why Indain people feel the way they do when these things or still happening right here in Roberts County South Dakota, can't beleive it, 2 elected native Sheriff's, 1 run out of office in less than 30 day's, the other hanging on by the skin of his teeth, a native women deputy forced to resign, a native jail admin. being forced to resign, and Russell Means is grabbing the headlines with this kinds stuff? maybe mr. means time would be better spent on helping natives in need of help like the one's mentioned above seeing nobody else seems to care, I thought this kind of stuff wasn't suppose to happen anymore. What's really sickning is nobody say's anything it's almost like it's acceptable?? How could Mr.Means county be any worse???? "
BrokenEarth.org wrote on Jan 1, 2008 11:26 PM:
" When you begin to organize, you begin to fail.
The strength of the Lakota people is rooted in the spirituality of the old ways. Following western ways will be the kiss of death. Demon-ocracy is not the Native way. You must have a leader who is authorized by the Creator, more like a noble King or Sultan.
A good place to investigate old ways, since much of the Native ways have been destroyed or forgotten, is in a strange place for most - the Ottoman Empire. At the peak of the Ottoman rule there were less than eighty-five official/paid employees. For those not knowing one governate of the Ottoman Empire would be about the size of the current Lakota Nation, with perhaps three or four paid employees.
Like the Ottoman Empire, you should not be permitted to become part of the Lakota NAtion unless you have two sponsors in good standing who will vouch for you. Vouching means that is you murder someone - they pay reperations if you can not. Vouching means if you swindle people and run, they must make good on your debts. This system is a self governing system. It is not easy to become a Lakota citizen nor should it be. The Ottomans required you to be Muslim, follow the divine laws and pledge your life to God. It was all God based - spiritually based - an important point. People will only self-govern if they fear wronging themselves and others and wish to serve a greater purpose. Otherwise you end up with Demon-O-cracy.
Passport should only be a mechanism for travel only - not control. There was nothing called passport in the Ottoman days. Two witnesses/sponsors need only verify who you were - not proviing citizen sponsorship, just confirming who you were.
Asking people to give up current US citizenship or any other citizenship is a hostile gesture and very foolish - ignorant at best.
In the Ottoman Empire you could live in the Empire without being a citizen, but you did not have the same status as a citizen. You also had to pay an excise tax for being under the protection and enjoying the services of the Empire. This was one of the few taxes. The only other tax was the poor due which amounted to 2 1/4 percent of your excess income above what you needed to survive.
A word of caution, do not ask immigrant Muslims about Islam. For the most part they are the very worst representatives of the Islamic faith. They are like Lakota people choosing to live in Washington DC rather than in their own Nation with their own people.
Your best source of information is Sheikh Nazim Al-Haqqani. Go direct, accept no intermediaries. He may tell you about the Ottoman ways.
Good Luck Lakota People. "
Putin Threatens Recognition of Breakaway US Lakota Sioux Indian Tribe wrote on Jan 1, 2008 6:15 PM:
" Putin Threatens Recognition of Breakaway US Lakota Sioux Indian Tribe
Reports circulating in the Kremlin today state that an enraged President Putin has ordered Russian Foreign Ministry Officials to begin the processes needed for Russia to recognize the Lakota Sioux Indian Tribe as an independent Nation, and who have now broken away from the United States by renouncing their treaties with their occupiers, and as we can read as reported by the AFP News Service:
"The Lakota Indians, who gave the world legendary warriors Sitting Bull[pictured left] and Crazy Horse, have withdrawn from treaties with the United States, leaders said Wednesday.
"We are no longer citizens of the United States of America and all those who live in the five-state area that encompasses our country are free to join us," long-time Indian rights activist Russell Means told a handful of reporters and a delegation from the Bolivian embassy, gathered in a church in a run-down neighborhood of Washington for a news conference.
A delegation of Lakota leaders delivered a message to the State Department on Monday, announcing they were unilaterally withdrawing from treaties they signed with the federal government of the United States, some of them more than 150 years old.
They also visited the Bolivian, Chilean, South African and Venezuelan embassies, and will continue on their diplomatic mission and take it overseas in the coming weeks and months, they told the news conference.
Lakota country includes parts of the states of Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota, Montana and Wyoming.
The new country would issue its own passports and driving licences, and living there would be tax-free -- provided residents renounce their US citizenship, Means said.
The treaties signed with the United States are merely "worthless words on worthless paper," the Lakota freedom activists say on their website.
The treaties have been "repeatedly violated in order to steal our culture, our land and our ability to maintain our way of life," the reborn freedom movement says.
Withdrawing from the treaties was entirely legal, Means said.
"This is according to the laws of the United States, specifically article six of the constitution," which states that treaties are the supreme law of the land, he said.
"It is also within the laws on treaties passed at the Vienna Convention and put into effect by the US and the rest of the international community in 1980. We are legally within our rights to be free and independent," said Means."
Putin’s anger, according to these reports, is based upon the United States engineering of the failure of United Nations talks on the Serbian breakaway province of Kosovo which is seeking independence, and which, according to Russian experts, will lead to an ‘uncontrollable crisis’ throughout the Balkans.
Putin was reported to have told one of his top aides that ‘two can play at this game’, in an obvious reference to the American President whom President Putin blames as being behind the machinations to increase instability along Russia’s borders with Eastern Europe.
Russian legal experts further state that of all of the United States Indian Tribes, the Lakota Sioux are the best positioned to have their declaration of independence from the American government recognized by the United Nations as they remain the only indigenous peoples in the US to have refused to accept payment for their lands, estimated to be nearly $1 billion, which they consider their ‘sacred grounds’ and have stated they would never relinquish.
It is, also, interesting to note that the Lakota Sioux are credited with one of the American Indians greatest defeat of US Military Forces in the Indian Wars by defeating the US Civil War Hero George Armstrong Custer and his Seventh Calvary in June, 1876 at the battle of Little Big Horn.
With these latest events, and with Russia as a potential new ally, one can only wonder if these long suffering and resilient Indians can once again defeat their age old enemies residing in the corridors of power in Washington D.C.
[Ed. Note: The United States government actively seeks to find, and silence, any and all opinions about the United States except those coming from authorized government and/or affiliated sources, of which we are not one. No interviews are granted and very little personal information is given about our contributors, or their sources, to protect their safety.]
"
Re: What I've learned wrote on Jan 1, 2008 1:17 PM:
" Attn: What I've learned! In order for alot of us to know what racism is let's look at the definition of racism: "a belief that some races are by nature superior to others; also :discrimination based on such belief--racist n."
So if you believe that some races are by nature superior to others then by definition you would be a racist.
As was provided in other posts the population by race is: White (237,854,954); Black or African American (37,909,341); American Indian and Alaska Native (2,863,001); Hispanic or Latino (42,687,224); Asian (12,687,472).
As you can tell the dominant group is White at 237,854,954 people according to the statistics as of July 1, 2005.
What is Institutional Racism?
Institutional racism is a form of racism which is structured into political and social institutions. It occurs when institutions, including corporations, governments and universities, discriminate either deliberately or indirectly, against certain groups of people to limit their rights. Race-based discrimination in housing, education, employment and health for example are forms of institutional racism. It reflects the cultural assumptions of the dominant group, so that the practices of that group are seen as the norm to which other cultural practices should conform (Anderson and Taylor, 2006). Institutional racism is more subtle, less visible, and less identifiable than individual acts of racism, but no less destructive to human life and human dignity. The people who manage our institutions may not be racists as individuals, but they may well discriminate as part of simply carrying out their job, often without being aware that their role in an institution is contributing to a discriminatory outcome. This not only threatens the efforts to improve health care for all Americans, but it also creates problems for a society that continues to struggle with a legacy of racial discrimination and oppression (Copeland, 2005). Although institutional racism may not necessarily be caused by intentional racism, it does however have very serious consequences for people of color in the United States especially in the health care system.
The Dominant Group or White Group of 237,854,954 people dictate the rules in America because of their numbers.
I just had to clarify to everyone on this Rapid Reply about what racism is and some of the misconceptions about what it is.
Hopefully this has helped clarify to the readers what we are all dealing with.
And especially to "What I've learned" that you also will be more informed about what you write in the future. Thank you. Happy New Year.
"
Huh? wrote on Jan 1, 2008 11:41 AM:
" The Lakota "group" is the most corrupt, dysfunctional and disorganized political body on the planet. Without organization, no effort will succeed. I wish these people the best of luck and success. "
What I've Learned wrote on Jan 1, 2008 9:41 AM:
" Racism is alive and well in South Dakota AND it is being practiced by both Natives and non-natives alike. This proves that we are more alike than we realize. "
Re: Human Rights: Philosophical Views wrote on Jan 1, 2008 8:10 AM:
" You are so right! Life on the rez is great. People are prosperous, sober, and the new generation of selfish and disrespecful children is fantastic. Everyone knows our system of government is far better than anyone else's. Why it would be a miracle if we could get a hundred Don Garnier's to help push drugs, embezzel the tribes money, and set the example for all future Tribe Leaders that corruption is the best way to get ahead on the rez. I say again, your right, life on the rez sure couldn't get any better. "
Pamcakes wrote on Jan 1, 2008 7:25 AM:
" I really don't know why anyone would give this artical the time of day! does anyone for one second beieve this is gonna happen? I wish Mr. Means the best of luck because he'll most likely join his freind Peltier in a prison cell for doing so, and I'd be willing to bet the Black Hills on that. Mr. Means could careless about his people,it's all for political gain and media coverage for him, he must be running out of money, this guy is nothing but trouble always has been always will be, for the average Native American doesn't even want him coming around let alone speaking on there behalf. "
Human Rights: Philosophical Views wrote on Jan 1, 2008 3:48 AM:
" The Lakota Cultural Philosophy's lead to no homeless, all are fed, employment for all, universal health care and shame for those who have more than they need.
While the American philosophys allow for homeless people including hundreds of thousands of children, starvation of adults and children (in the millions), no universal health care and the a constant state of warfare.
The Americans know this themselves yet choose to elect leaders that bow to corporations and profits at the peril of their own.
Which philosophy would you want?
"
Small Minds wrote on Jan 1, 2008 3:42 AM:
" Another reply to One White Man: "Guarded" electrical fences don't keep anyone in or out; i.e. Mexico. As far as the unfair government giving them everything...it wasn't really given to them on a silver platter. It came only after signing a PEACE Treaty. What was given to them wasn't first rate. People of all colors, off of the Reservations are eligible for Government Aid: welfare, food stamps, PELL grants for education, health care-Medicaid/Medicare. Why don't "white" people around the Black Hills make a fuss about these poor people. The only difference is land ownership and they don't get to check the Native American/American Indian box when the government asks for race. I'm sure if the Government took away everything they gave them; to include the near genocide of their Tribes, they would fair better than what you expect. Passports are can be easy to get. It would be interesting to see "THEIR" country live like that. Unlike your view, I don't always see it as US vs THEM. If someone entered into an agreement in this day and age, and the one of the parties didn't hold up their end of the bargain, someone would be screaming LAWSUIT. "
No Wonder!! wrote on Dec 31, 2007 8:35 PM:
" With the venom spewed towards Native Americans from the views of mainstream America, it is NO WONDER that other countries hate the United States and everthing it stands for.
The goverment that the US is trying to create in Iraq is the very same government that was forced upon the tribes, and look how it has helped them.
Iraq is in for a rough ride if they embrace the US wishes. "
To One White Man wrote on Dec 31, 2007 7:19 PM:
" You say they should cut all funds to the Rez and put an electric fence around it? As another white man that is on the side of free people and free nations borne out of self-determination, I will join their side, and I don't give a rip what color they are. There is nothing left for free people in the USA, except for the daily grind that enriches the fatcats in the financial industry.
There are plenty of you so-called "Americans" that will always side with Uncle Sam, simply because you are too cowardly to stand on the side that is the underdog. I don't care about any status as far as who "wins" or "loses." The current system is a LOSS for free peoples, so there is no choice but to fight until America is returned to freedom for the average citizen.
Many of us here in this part of the world are well versed in these situations, and will gladly lend our help. Even Stalin had great difficulty in his struggle with us, so in that spirit I have two words for you...
BRING IT.
"
one white man wrote on Dec 31, 2007 6:31 PM:
" I live in the Black hills and if for some stupid reason this would ever happen they could have this land after fighting me and everyone else for it. heck why dont we put a 30 foot garded electric fence around the res and cut all government spending and take back everything this unfair government gave them. then not let anyone without a us passport out lets see there country live like that "
Oh! Ok, I get it wrote on Dec 31, 2007 4:56 PM:
" US Government aside,
He has overstepped his boundries; surpassed the Oglala Sioux Tribal governance and has is putting the Lakota people in serious jeopardy.
Hence; TREASON "
I am surprised RCJ would post this! wrote on Dec 31, 2007 4:52 PM:
" Ryan
wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:42 AM:
" STOP ALL MONIES TO THE RESERVATIONS NOW!!! The only people that can help the natives are the natives. maybe we can go to war with them again. So does that mean all Natives will become illegals..YEAH!!!! BRIG IT ON!!! " "
Young Lakota Woman wrote on Dec 31, 2007 4:47 PM:
" This is just ridiculous. I wish these people would stop claiming to speak on behalf of ANY Lakota people. These people are well known Media Hogs, and look for any way to recreate their "radical days". Its time for this new generation of Lakota people to be allowed to educate ourselves, retain our language, since Russell Means and this lot, dont seem to think that cultural/language/spirituality retention is important enough; and make a new stand, on our terms, in our own way. They have proven that their big Grand Standing doesnt work, so why not give it a rest. The time for "statements" is over, and until they realize that they are hugely ineffectual, the rest of us are going to have suffer humiliation and indignity, until they run out of steam, or move on. There are ways to make changes, but falling back on this, and dragging Lakota people into this kind of embarassment isnt the way! Hasnt the past 30 years taught these AIM cartoons anything yet??? Retire, go make some more movies, continue your pandering to European Wannabees, but for the sake of the new generations....BACK OFF AND STOP MAKING FOOLS OF YOURSELVES!!! "
To: Anthony in NJ wrote on Dec 31, 2007 2:23 PM:
" You don't know much about the political atmosphere out here do you? Russell Means is as far from bravery as one can get which is why he no longer resides in South Dakota. He is nothing more than a hustler. Living in NJ, surely you understand what motivates a hustler? "
Sorry Tony: wrote on Dec 31, 2007 1:03 PM:
"
We want people that stand for something. Wait for the wind to blow another direction, perhaps toward Chavez. "
Chic wrote on Dec 31, 2007 12:20 PM:
" I'm sure many countries will recognize the Lakota Nation. It was meant to be a thumb in the eye of white America. In this day and age, trashing white Americans seems to be the rage all over the world. Climb on board while the fun lasts because the goodwill of this country has its limits. "
Sorry Mr. Archan wrote on Dec 31, 2007 11:45 AM:
" Peace has nothing to do with the proclimation. Anybody who is educated in the history of Russell Means and his group knows that this all about white hatred. Russ has never been and will never be about peace. "
Werner Archan wrote on Dec 31, 2007 10:47 AM:
" I hope my government of the Austrian Republic will recognise the Republic of Lakota as soon as possible. But I expect that cowards and opportunists will be afraid to do so.
My best wishes to all American Indians and all freedom-loving people! "
Anthony from NJ wrote on Dec 31, 2007 10:03 AM:
" I don't know how you people feel out there. But I am thrilled to see such bravery. I'd renounce my citeznship in a heart beat to join an Indian Nation. I think secession IS PATRIOTIC! That is why it is in the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. Gotta be done peacefully though. Like honorable people. Maintiain your cool.
And for those that think speaking out against our government is treason. You are the brain-washed one! "
Former Rezzer wrote on Dec 31, 2007 10:02 AM:
" Hey Russell, didn't this happen already in history? Correct me if I'm wrong, wasn't the Civil War about succession and the southern states declaring their "Sovereignty" from the union? All of your declarations are just empty rhetoric and who wrote your script this time, Chavez? "
Pamecakes wrote on Dec 31, 2007 9:09 AM:
" La de da, la de da, this is the same old same old, from this guy. I wouldn't take him to serious, Rulers like Chavez might listen but thats about it, no other county in their right mind is gonna go along with this except county's like Ven. Syria, Iran, and I dont think the US gov. really cares what any of those county's think when it come to our internal affairs, I would love to see people stop paying taxes, all this would end real fast if that happenes, uncle Sam wouldn't stand for that very long. "
Anthony from NJ wrote on Dec 31, 2007 9:08 AM:
" I don't know how you people feel out there. But I am thrilled to see such bravery. I'd renounce my citeznship in a heart beat to join an Indian Nation. I think secession IS PATRIOTIC! That is why it is in the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. Gotta be done peacefully though. Like honorable people. Maintiain your cool. "
White Man wants to JOIN... wrote on Dec 31, 2007 1:55 AM:
" I, an educated, professional white man would love to roll back the clock to 1913 America and earlier years. I believe, this would be possible on the reservation if closed its borders. It would be GREAT! No taxes, no police state, no authorities sticking their noses into my business... None of that idiocy.
I get nothing from the current US government that benefits me. Sure, they have paved roads, but I don't really need them. I'd be fine with a dirt trail. I get protection by the US military, but I don't really think I need it. I'm more afraid of the US industrialized-military complex than any foreign governments. I appears that most of the world has taken the stance that they can get along with each other just fine in this day and age, save the squabbling in the former communist countries as they sort out borders and take revenge on each other. Meanwhile the only threats I get is my own US governments agenda to use the military against me and my loved ones, and the overzealous police constantly overstepping their bounds. I have no use for the mandatory national ID system coming which will eventually lead to implanted tracking devices on every newborn human, and will end with our total enslavement to a totalitarian government ruled by fascism and corporatism. No sane person would ever want to live in the near future of industrialized collectivism with zero individual rights.
The only thing I might miss about the current world, is zipping along on a motorcycle. Heck, I'm sure I could get along fine on a horse instead, and learn to like it. (Certainly would be easier than learning to like being repetitively Tazered for some cops enjoyment.) I would have a few cows, some pigs, chickens, a giant garden, hopefully a little swamp for rice and an eight of a section to grow some wheat.
I would hang out doing my thing, have good times, and enjoying life in the manner I was put on this Earth to do so. I couldn't care less what the latest iPod or celebrity garbage is, and give could give a rip for virtually any aspect of the current society we live in... Oh, I'm pretty sure I'd miss the Internet too, but that I guess may just be the one thing I'd have to sacrifice. So, I might not live to be 90 years old under my system, and I'll have to work hard. Big deal! It would be worth it if I could just be left alone by all these rules, laws, laws, and even more unnecessary and ridiculous laws and taxes. I've had it!! And all of you can go to Hell, as far as I'm concerned.
"
to stupid wrote on Dec 30, 2007 11:52 PM:
" whos getting over thrown? "
One Word sums it up wrote on Dec 30, 2007 10:04 PM:
" Treason
Oran's Dictionary of the Law (1983) defines treason as: "...[a]...citizen's actions to help a foreign government overthrow, make war against, or seriously injure the [parent nation]." In many nations, it is also often considered treason to attempt or conspire to overthrow the government, even if no foreign country is aided or involved by such an endeavour.[citation needed]
How do the Lakota handle a person that commits this act? "
Human Rights: To bigdaddydel wrote on Dec 30, 2007 5:45 PM:
" Thanks for your commonsense in international law and reason. It is painful to see our own Lakota accept violations of human rights and the interpretation of international law. Whether you are Lakota, Indigenous of sorts, Caucasian, Asian, African, Persian or Muslim your words are good to read.
Ho Hecetu Yelo!!! "
Boring wrote on Dec 30, 2007 4:27 PM:
" Yawnnnn.....This is so boring. I can't believe that people are still commenting on it. FACT ONE - No One is going to be renouncing their citizanship. DUHHHHHHH, it's just an idol threat. Talk is cheap. FACT TWO - If you want anyone to take you seriously, than you have to follow through on this IDOL THREAT and you won't. Don't you think it's time to stop the hating and join the people who are trying to get along????? "
t wrote on Dec 30, 2007 4:27 PM:
" Russell and his group should go to thier own land and leave the reservation, those of us whop dont support them should ban them as illegals on the reservation "
Remember when you vote wrote on Dec 30, 2007 1:24 PM:
" The American Indian has rights but so do all of the rest the Americans. One right we have iis to determine how our taxes are spent and to do what makes sense for the common good. The way we do this on the reservation and in America is to vote our conscienc , let's pay close attention to this and remember ti when we vote. And it is sure tiresome to hear dribble from some feel good about myself easterner that dks about what is really going on with our people. "
dabigdaddydel wrote on Dec 30, 2007 11:29 AM:
" I always love how the quibbling majority of naysayers always want to point to the Lakota's previous history as a means to ignore the fact that when the 1851 and 1868 treaties were signed, they were between the Lakota and the United States and specifically referenced the east side of the Missouri River, the entire western half of South Dakota which covered the Black Hills, and even included a portion of Wyoming.
If this treaty had been signed between the Cold War powers of the U.S. and the USSR, I seriously doubt there would have been any breach of the contract. Even after the Cold War Russian conglomerate fell, the U.S. has steadfastly honored the SALT treaties, even to the point of hosting Russian observers as ICBM missile silos across South Dakota were rendered useless in recent years.
If a treaty between two recognized sovereignties can not be honored, then the entire premise of this country - liberty and justice for all - is just rhetoric, forcefully used and abused by those who manipulate its properties to better their own pursuits of life, liberty and happiness while subjugating other members who are promised these rights, but never receive them.
You cry about the cost of the reservation system, but they were merely P.O.W. camps meant to move the Indigenous to undesirable areas while your hordes of invading settlers stumbled over themselves, and each other, to settle land that they, and their ancestors, were denied in their own homelands.
This unthinking action, much like the rush to war in Iraq and under similarly misguided lies and deceptions, now haunts the U.S. government as it tries to step out from under this obligation without seemingly reneging on another treaty right.
Again, if this treaty had been signed between an invading country and your family, you would still be fighting to have your family's rights honored, even to your death.
We are not different. We will not go away. We will call into question every misstep in the interpretation and enactment of these treaties. We will wrestle against Supreme Court decisions made in an age when the outcome was more suited for a country trying to gain a foothold among the world's elite, at the expense of the original inhabitors of the land.
If I suddenly camped on your front lawn, wouldn't you do everything within your right to have me removed, even to the point of killing me if you felt the government has given you that right of defense.
We are no different. "
LaDonna wrote on Dec 30, 2007 11:07 AM:
" Russell Means is not a founder of the American Indian Movement, as your article states. He joined the movement after it was already in existence.
The founders of AIM were Dennis Banks, clyde Bellecurt, Harold Goodsky and George Mitchell. "
Human Rights: The Lakota Deserve Theirs wrote on Dec 29, 2007 10:20 PM:
" Take a day and go sit at a library or a book store or even the internet and do a comparison of Venezuela under Chavez and the U.S. under the presidents in that same time frame (Bush and Clinton). Look into foreign policy, media legislation, economic legislation and outcomes, hell compare constitutions. During this time refrain from CNN Fox and MSNBC Unless Keith Olberman is on. After that sit and reflect on your country (U.S.) and start making plans for it's fall, your grandkids may see it, provided your now a young man or woman. When it does, it will be of there own doing. Implosion sounds about right. "
Human Rights: NO JUSTICE NO PEACE wrote on Dec 29, 2007 10:12 PM:
" Well people or peoples have moved about since the Whenever probably forever. The people in Britain and France where not there forever yet they are able to reside there because of the chips fell. The Lakota creation story is based in the Black Hills, the star knowledge held sacred to the Lakota centers around the Black Hills and finds it's center at Pe Sla (about 15 miles west of Hill City), I have heard stories of migration over beringia and travels as far as what is now france and only to return once more to our homeland, who happened by the black hills at the time of our peoples absence is what it is and nothing more. We were physically residing here at the time of the 51 and 68 treaties and therefore we find ourselves in this situation. We sure didnt break the contract, the U.S. lays claim to that fact. Study international law or at least read 1 book on it and you will quickly find Means is in the right and the U.S. has no grounds to stand on. The U.S. citizens should address thier government to get this straightened out. To those who want my food stamps and government go ahead and take them, I will get on the welfare rolls of the Indipendent Lakota Nationa State, or Uncle Hugo C. can help me out. "
to slowpoke wrote on Dec 29, 2007 8:04 PM:
" Do you know what a contract is? The United States were losing too many people and could not control the Northern Plains. A Treat or Contract was signed by representives of the US Government and the leaders of the Lakota Nation. This agreement was between two groups that were fighting a war. The US gave up and signed a treaty that would put the lands west of the Missouri to the Lakota Nation. It was call the Great Sioux Nation. If you believe in Creation your point is mute as far as who was here first. I for one believe the Great Sioux Nation is still here and the settlers settled illegally. I hope you read this because it is important to keep educating the uneducated. "
SloPoke55 wrote on Dec 29, 2007 7:39 PM:
" On what basis are the Lakota claims to the lands of Nebraska and the Dakotas? It seems that the claims are based on Lakota occupancy of the lands for all of history. But, is this possible?
In researching the history of the Lakota I have found that the archaeologists have found evidence that the Lakota actually migrated from the eastern United States. In fact, historically they are only latecomers to this area. And in fact they have found that the Lakota took this land from other tribes; either driving them out or killing those that would not leave.
Apparently their compaint is that they were treated better than the tribes that they displaced. "
Think about it wrote on Dec 29, 2007 3:19 PM:
" I wonder how Gummer would vote on this issue "
Another Idiot wrote on Dec 29, 2007 2:52 PM:
" When I learned the History of America through research papers and study I was upset. It made me upset because of what was done to the first people of North America. The world knows what happened here in the Americas. I realize there are european descent people who do not understand because there were not taught about the ethnic cleansing which took place in the Americas. Unfortunately, we are struggling with the Truth because it is not being researched and made right. Although we still have Reservations and this is a good thing because we can continue living as our own people. When I visit other places and am confronted with ignorance I say something because I have special status. I am an Oglala Lakota tribal member and I am a citizen of the United States. That will not change! Mr. Means will go down as one of our greatest leaders. The post earlier saying something about Banks, well I realize it was a slip but I assure you as a Lakota, he will go down as one of the strongest leaders in the 20th century. AIM was powerful and systematically taken out but they accomplished so much. When you realize we did not have the freedom of religion and because a few people said, No to the United States, things changed. So when you think about Russel Means, know he will be known as a GREAT leader. We will be fighting for change until things changed. "
Re: Means is an idiot wrote on Dec 29, 2007 12:59 PM:
" My bad not Dennis Means I meant Russell Means. See he is so insunificant he doesn't even rank as a person "
Means is an idiot! wrote on Dec 29, 2007 12:57 PM:
" First of all Dennis Means is in South Dakota for one reason and one reason only; other idiots willing to listen to him! I mean even in his home state they think he is a blooming idiot! First of all the Black Hills was NEVER owned period, the Indians and I mean all of them would not enter the Black Hills because they believed evil lurked there. Now that it is profitable of course they want them! Friggin idiots the whole lot of em! I am so sick of hearing about Dennis Means and his "Po us" attitude. Get over it already! This is from an American, with Sioux ansestory by the way. "
Foreign Aid wrote on Dec 29, 2007 10:51 AM:
" History will show the aid the United States of America has given to countries around the world. It is clear ignorance is a choice because people keep saying the same things. My hope is change will come and it will be the people who seek to be like Jesus. I do not want to sound like a preacher but the bible is clear on how we are to treat the poor. It is like treating Jesus. I am waiting for the Sacred Hoop to be mended and I believe it will be with the people of Jesus. Not a bunch of Religious people. "
Chucky wrote on Dec 29, 2007 9:18 AM:
" It sounds like a good idea to me! Cut off the govt. checks, money for new buildings, and healthcare. They will need to sign the Lakota Free Trade Agreement so they can send beer across country lines. "
From NY wrote on Dec 28, 2007 11:16 PM:
" Russell Means does not speak for all of his people. His attempt to send a message out to the world without the consent of true tribal leaders was reckless and I respect that determination (I would still respect and support it if they did agree. I know they could do fine without us. They are amazing people. That's a fact) Messenger notwithstanding, I still maintain the message is important, because when you don't listen to others, even to those of us who drive us nuts, you delay finding solutions. When you delay too long, everyone suffers. He did shine a light on the need to address the state of affairs for our precious National Resource, the Native American Culture.
I have a couple of crazy radicals in my family too, trust me, they are no fun for me either and ALOT of work, but by listening to them I know they bring important things to the table, and solutions are found by not tearing them down. Discourse and respect do work. They usually are right about a few things, and those solutions do need to be found.
Long after ignorant bloggers have forgotten this, there are those of us who cared before this, and still care, and will always care. And many of us will be checking in long after this dies.
And please forgive the ignorant and divisive whose fingers are faster than their brains. They too do not speak for my people, who love and hold your culture in high regard.
"
Mary wrote on Dec 28, 2007 10:23 PM:
" To: Human Rights and Peace for all -- All you see here is racism? Either you skimmed the posts and picked only certain words, or you actually like hatred in spite of/beneath your words.
There is harmony here. There is respect among people living here. But, what you see here is probably what you see everywhere. Your choice. "
Human Rights and Peace for all wrote on Dec 28, 2007 5:08 PM:
" I am amazed at all the ignorance on this blog. It hurts and is very frustrating to see the "Lakota" people on this blog behave as if they cannot exist without the United States. This is colonized thinking at it's finest. If you are afraid to suffer for independance and nation state status and then what good are you? Eventually whether it is tomarrow or 500 years from now this is going to be reality, provided that capitalism does not chew up and spit out what is left of the Oceti Sakowin. Find this same story on other websites and look at their blogs, you will find a great difference between the local comment and the international comment. The local comment seems to be full of self hate and racism while the international comment expresses hope and best wishes. Take a look. "
Beatiful Native Woman wrote on Dec 28, 2007 4:25 PM:
" To my belief, Russ took action without all of our vote. He speaks for his own reservation. The rest of us are trying to survive. Feed our families, bury our elderly with respect, and live a good, honest life. Please do not ridacule our people if you do not know who we really are. We are a strong brown nation. "
pine-ridger wrote on Dec 28, 2007 4:15 PM:
" All President Yellow bird-Steele has to do is issue a statement that Means does not represent us (Lakota Nation) hes probably still recovering from his LNI vacation in the Black Hills.. Maybe if we talk to Brewer he can issue a statement representing the Oglala Sioux Nation.. Steele is about as helpful as a hole in a bucket.. "
No Worries Rezzer wrote on Dec 28, 2007 4:05 PM:
" I wouldn't get too upset about the story. Most educated people (including yourself) see right through Russ's scam. Reasonable people will prevail. "
Fed up wrote on Dec 28, 2007 3:10 PM:
" Well if the Lakota withdraw from the US, doesn't that mean their on their own. No more federal aid, no food stamps, commodities, Wic, or anything else they receive free. We should now be allowed to tax them, they should have to be as anyone else and have to qualify and be a US citizen. Plus there is no need for Gov. Rounds to take a million dollars of our money to satisify their complaints about Bear Butte. "
Rezzer wrote on Dec 28, 2007 12:50 PM:
" This story should be retracted because it is a flat out LIE!!!!!
RUSSELL MEANS HAS NO AUTHORITY TO CLAIM SUCH A THING. This story needs be retracted.
The tribe needs to do major damage control over this.
Russell Means: How come every time you come around something bad always happens? "
yeha im native american wrote on Dec 28, 2007 10:56 AM:
" Russell never served the ppl or this country as felon & sellout to his ppl if this supposed country of his ever gets started creating foreign soil on US grounds i'd start proceedings for treason, if they let him do his stupid thing then i'd dis enroll my self from my own tribe in retaliation because we get nothing from being an enrolled member aside from having to work & pay for everyones welfare check., free health care, housing & education are what tribal members should take advantage of in a good way not use it a a crutch to be a waste of space in this world, for those of you who think paying $100 a month on a house is to much try living a one bed room apartment for $1000 a month & still try to feed your self & take classes you have to eventually pay for "
hau, wrote on Dec 28, 2007 10:51 AM:
" i wrote a comment before but it was never posted i wonder why ! any way i'm going write it in english so you might understand it better and it might be posted too, rusell is not a leader in a lakotas eyes,and ears, "
To: Interesting.. wrote on Dec 28, 2007 10:33 AM:
" Victory? OK, if it makes you feel better. Good day neighbor. "
To Russell Means wrote on Dec 28, 2007 10:32 AM:
" Why are you doing this to our children? We have enough problems on the rez. We deal with racism everyday of our lives. This stunt you are pulling AGAIN, makes it harder to get along with our white neighbors, e.g Rapid City, Chadron. The mentality of some white people will cause them to think that all Lakotas hate them, and we don't, we are supposed to be respectful, of all races. Are children are very intellient and they read all of this and now what do you all think that they think? Talk about confused! I didn't see where RCJ, put The Lakota Nation or the Oglala Sioux Tribe, they put a GROUP, so this GROUP are the the ones who should put a fence around themselves and all the donations they will be getting, in the meantime I will raise my children to have Lakota values and still make a life for themselves, be it poor or wealthy, because I am RICH in my Lakota beliefs. "
Interesting.... wrote on Dec 28, 2007 9:39 AM:
" It is interesting to read all of these responses. I am especially entertained by all of the "history" buffs. All the responders that say, "we won" the land. The U.S. didn't "win" this land. It was stolen! Fact! The supreme court even agnologed this fact. The U.S. declared war on "indians" and were losing. If you look at "history", every major battle (not fights against women and children, those aren't battles) between the US and indians was won by indians. The US recognized this and decided it was best for all involved to sit down and find a better solution; i.e. treaties. The US "won" when, the indians upheld their end of the agreement and made peace. The indians were the only side that even tried to uphold their end of the bargain. Under the Constitution of the United States, it clearly states that, "Treaties are the supreme law of the LAND". (huh, and i thought stealing was a punishable crime in the country) Now, i'm no lawyer but, seems like to me, a theif is a theif, no matter what name its under.
It is said that, "the winners get to write the history". I guess this is one exception to the rule. Oh, and by the way, indians are the only people to ever defeat the United States in a war. Fact!
"
Why Argue? wrote on Dec 28, 2007 9:10 AM:
" Few would dispute that the Natives were victims of Manifest Destiny. As the facts stand, non-natives are here to stay (forever). A century of bickering over the Laramie & Black Hills Treaties has resulted in nothing. The Russell Mean's proclimation is as laughable as the man's character. I use the term 'man' losley. "
RE: Angelyn and Ray wrote on Dec 28, 2007 8:58 AM:
" The very thought of evicting every white man from this country is very telling of your own hatred and intolerance for other races (or pitiful self flagullation). I eagerly await your laughable eviction notice. To: Ray; Historically both sides have been in gross violation of the Laramie Treaty. If we are to cite history, lets get it right. "
History Lesson!!! wrote on Dec 28, 2007 8:17 AM:
" What is the historical basis of tribal sovereignty?
"Indian Nations were considered sovereign before the framing of the U.S. Constitution. European countries regularly dealt with Indians as nations as they entered into treaties for trade and alliance purposes. The U.S. Constitution, Article 1, Section 8, addresses Indian tribes as follows: “The Congress shall have the power to regulate commerce with foreign nations and among the several states and with Indian tribes.” Indians are the only group of people specifically mentioned in the U.S. Constitution. The U.S. Supreme Court affirmed the sovereignty of tribes in a series of rulings. The most notable were three cases referred to as the Marshall Trilogy. The cases were Johnson v McIntosh (1823), Cherokee Nation v Georgia (1831), and Worcester v Georgia (1832). A recent case, California v Cabazon Band of Mission Indians (1987) deals directly with tribal gaming and confirms the right of tribes to conduct gaming activities."
NIGC "
Ray West wrote on Dec 28, 2007 7:49 AM:
" A treaty is the highest form of law. When one side repeatedly violates their own treaties then the Indians have the legal right and duty to declare all such treaties null and void ab initio just like any other contract. I congratulate you on taking a stand for your rights and those of your people. Happy New Year! "
The Rapid City Journal wrote the article wrote on Dec 27, 2007 8:18 PM:
" Lakota group secedes from U.S.
By Bill Harlan, Journal staff Thursday, December 20, 2007
The article written by Bill Harlan for the Rapid City Journal leads one to believe that all of the Lakota as referenced by Russel Means are going to secede from the United States.
Now people that's the problem, when the Rapid City Journal tends to lead under the generalization concept alot of these Rapid Replies are interpreting that Russel Means has made the decision for all of the Lakota.
Once you read these Rapid Replies, again alot of them are taking Russel Means' attempt as has the Rapid City Journal in its writing depicting the title of the article as, "Lakota group secedes from U.S."
Russel Means was and is a political activist and I appreciate him, but not all Lakota follow his views or thoughts. I take that back, let's say some of what Russel Means says is very accurate, but his way of going about something draws the negativeness.
In Russel Means introduction with the Rapid City Journal, the same would hold if we used an example of former Governor Bill Janklow as
speaking for all the Whites in this country on for example an article written in the Rapid City Journal.
As an example, let's just say an article was written by the Rapid City Journal with the caption title, "Whites move for segregation in U.S." And again, the made up article would focus on former Governor, Bill Janklow, leading an effort of uniting himself and three of his closest friends in South Dakota in segregating themselves in U.S.
And as the intent of the exampled Rapid City Journal article was to bring dialogue to the possible Bill Janklow movement to segregate all Whites in America.
I hope some of you would understand the implications of such an improvised Rapid City Journal. To me this Russel Means article exemplifies just how the Rapid City Journal wrote that article in its title, "Lakota group secedes from U.S."
My opinion is that Russel Means does not speak for all Lakota throughout this country and the Rapid City Journal should realize that, but their article emphasizes the opposite.
"
Marc wrote on Dec 27, 2007 8:05 PM:
" If they want to secede, let them. Maybe they will be able to do better on their own. Nations come and go, and no one ever said American would last forever, anyway.
Start thinking about what *your* new country is going to be like! :-) "
Angelyn Matos wrote on Dec 27, 2007 6:59 PM:
" I wish the the Lakota Nation luck in their succesion of the USA. Maybe they will build a fence/wall around the entire USA and make them leave the land that rightfully belongs to the Lakota and other Native American tribes. See how they like it (the fence)
Angelyn (15 years old) "
Fed Up wrote on Dec 27, 2007 4:24 PM:
" This is completely absurd. The United States is NOT an outlaw nation. The United States is the Goverment that is giving him the right to run his mouth. What is the point in seceding? The Goverment gave them Reservation land, what else do they want? The White people didn't take anything from them. We didn't steal it or trick them, we were in a battle and we won it. People like RM are more racist then any white person I have ever met. Not only does he support this idea, but I'm sure he has no problem with the "Native American Women Health Clinic", or the "Native American Office Product" store. Does anyone else ever consider what would happen if some one opened a "White Women Health Clinc"??
NO one is stopping them from having their religion and their land and their traditions. Sometimes they might just have to get a job and buy the land like everyone else. "
are we so different?? wrote on Dec 27, 2007 1:26 PM:
" It seems that all involved in this discussion agree that South Dakota and the Black Hills are a very special place. "
Wondering... wrote on Dec 27, 2007 12:14 PM:
" Does anybody remember when RM said he didn't want to have anything to do with Pine Ridge and then moved to NM.
I wonder if he's soliciting money from other nations for his imaginary country. "
To: Billy wrote on Dec 27, 2007 11:41 AM:
" That's the issue, it isn't the Lakota, it's Russell Means and his white hate group. Russ has no intention on offering any tangible help to the Lakota. Anybody familiar to South Dakota knows Russ is simply the Native version of Al Sharpton. His agenda has nothing to do with the success of the Lakota. "
Russ Wants Strife wrote on Dec 27, 2007 11:29 AM:
" The only purpose of this proclimation is to generate strife between Natives and whites. With the strife comes purpose and profit for Russ. If the two races reconciled, Russ would have to get a real job. "
Billy wrote on Dec 27, 2007 11:23 AM:
" As an Irish person, I see the value of independence from a colonising nation as of utmost importance. well done to the Lakota, I wish them every success. "
RE: Well... wrote on Dec 27, 2007 10:59 AM:
" That's because anybody who speaks out against Chavez is imprisoned. Venezuela is simply another Cuba in the making. We all know what a eutopia Cuba is? "
PRSD wrote on Dec 27, 2007 10:42 AM:
" Russ has one victory. More blogs than Don Garnier. Both people whom have no ties to the reservation never heard of a Chief Garnier or Chief Means or Chief Carlow the list goes on and on. So continue to write blogs like myself see if we can get 1000 responses a new record. Thanks RC journal......... "
ABsolute truth. wrote on Dec 27, 2007 9:43 AM:
" I once listened and believed in RM.I respected him as a leader and as a person of value.And he does have many.But they would be better utilized within the bounds of his own home before he claims to speak for anyone,especially a whole tribe.Today?I see Russ as a man who's past tactics brought awareness to appalling conditions on the rez and as a by-product, brought him a certain type of marketability rivalled only by Brittany Spears.No talent but with the right light and a few carefully scripted words people take notice.But,as with Brittany,his time has passed and the production no longer works.People understand that with enough blunders that RM has few redeemable qualities.If he wants to continue to advocate this nonsense,have at it.It makes a good read,kinda like brittany.To supports?I say,don't let the ancestors die in vain.you've made it this far thanks to their sacrafices made long ago,They did this with YOU in mind.But many have quit moving forward and many have ignored the tools left at their feet.Left by the treaties and promises made over OPne Hundred years ago.Most have been violated and ignored but many oppurtunities are there for any ANY self respecting,teachable Indian with the desire to achieve their own future.Not for the weakhearted who choose to accept their poverty as anyone's fault but their own. "
Chavez will Fail wrote on Dec 27, 2007 9:18 AM:
" Chavez well have many many problems in the near future. He has some already but his country is so censored that it doesnt make it out. For crying out loud it is against the law in his country to speak bad about the government. He does a lot to ge the uneducated vote but in time if he is not replaced they will many problems in Venezuela. "
Think about it wrote on Dec 27, 2007 2:31 AM:
" From New York, you speak well, however, we here also have the same desires you speak of, we cannot pull it together for unity, something as easy as getting along has long passed our ability to accomplish it, we have all the excuses we need and those who don't get thier way sabotage what we are all trying to achieve, the problem is Russell and his crew dont speak for our Tribe, we have elected people who we entrusted with that, but these grandstanders sabotage all attempts to succeed! "
chris wrote on Dec 27, 2007 12:39 AM:
" ok so what is going on here? am i going to need to get my passport, or get deported? i feel it is very childish to blame other people for your own problems, start owning up and be responsible for yourselves and maybe you might actually see a change in point of views. i was totally stoked when i started reading this article, the ultimate comedy i would get to read. hahaha it is way too funny to see some indians blaming the white man for all thier problems. or the whites saying now we can have our tax dollars back. dang people stop being so self centered here you are NEIGHBORS help each other out, oh thats right this is rapid city no one helps anyone but them selves here. "
Well... wrote on Dec 26, 2007 10:14 PM:
" ...I don't see Chavez bankrupting his country starting fights all over and he sure doesn't have any shortage of medical care for his people....
CEO's have been running to Latin America in droves for decades. Ex-pats know something alot of ignoramuses don't yet. RM may be on to something. Giggle now, won't be laughing when the rez statistics start getting better under their own rule. "
Birds of a feather ... wrote on Dec 26, 2007 7:41 PM:
" Russel Means and Hugo Chavez should get on nicely together, as they rely on the same tactics. Both are trading on the unpopularity of the Bush administration to further their own political agendas. At some point though, these sociopaths will wake up to reality - and that should be fun to watch. Er, that is, unless you are among that group of sad ignorants that believe in their brand of malevolent fantasy. "
From NY wrote on Dec 26, 2007 7:27 PM:
" Confused in MI Wrote:
" The idea of an Indian tribe declaring independence, occupying a center spot in the U.S. and actually making something of themselves is a fascinating thought and the things that could be accomplished are endless. It's funny, also from these postings it's obvious you would have a newly formed, self-ruled government that, from what I can read, would be just as corrupt as what we have sitting in Washington D.C. now. Again, 'tis a shame. "
I agree. Because the reservation had to adopt an organized governmental structure similar to the US, it's got it's same pitfalls as well as benefits. I also found the following:
-An immediate US mainstream media blackout ensued on this story. The international local news outlets & community message boards know of this better than we do. Definitely ignored and trivialized. The Washington DC papers were the first to trivialize it. Hmmm...
-The immediate denouncement of the radical in their group. History has shown that the most radical and "unstable" make the most positive impacts on our world, think Dr. Martin Luther King, Van Gogh, Beethoven, Virgina Woolf,Helen Keller, Anne Sullivan etc. All of whom were considered "unstable" and "trouble makers" at various stages. A negative labeling of the mentally ill or courageous was another means to silence dissent. Our most famous and gifted would today be considered "mentally ill." Channeled, these are exquisite and extraordinary gifts they have to awaken us, and lead us to positive change. Marginalizing them, dismissing them or silencing them, is akin to silencing progress to keep things "as they are" even if it means the eventual destruction of your culture. Oppressing them or discrediting them, leads them to desperate acts. We do not want that or need that. We need to give them voice in our communities. Hear them out. Speak together and listen. Hear what Means is saying. It is important to you.
-I took note of the breakdown of communal bonds that occurred in this when the Lakota is faced with the decision to "hang around the fort" or "return to your own roots, for better or worse." This has never been resolved as a people, together, therefore, it continues be a source of division, resulting in a continued internal struggle. Until this is resolved, by themselves, together, as a nation, it will continue to cycle.
- I noticed the past, and current, psychological demeaning of the Native American nations, along with the planting of the psychological seed message "you're nothing without us" that continues to promote dependence, despondence, and disconnection. Like a domestic abuse partner "I can treat you however I want to, I beat you, you're nothing without me, if you leave you'll fail, that's why you're still here, you like it." A primary & preferred method of dis-empowering a people when you fear them. It is much worse than introducing small pox, or even genocide, for the peaceful "divide and conquer" method is much less expensive, and so easy to implement using those uneducated/unaware of the Native American Culture itself to promote it with a well placed "good, get off handouts and take care of yourself" or "my best friends are Native Americans, and we're doing just fine thank you", amongst other comments.
Statistics do not lie. There is a very real, and ugly psychological toll taken on a large portion of this once proud and independent peoples to the brink of despair. They point at each other for being "lazy" and wanting "hand outs" just as all oppressed cultures turn on their own when afraid to upset their "keepers" By listening to, and including in the solutions, those of their population affected most negatively by assimilation they are in essence,at risk of losing respect and privilege in much of US society. "How can you support that guy. You must be like him." Not true, you could think he's nuts on a cracker, but because he carries the blood of your ancestors, and is speaking to you as a people, you should not tear him down. A peaceful people, who deserve to be heard.
Bring your discussions home, as one, and then talk to us on the outside, as one. Keep your people, and yourselves, and your families intact.
The same sociological phenomena is observed with all oppressed and abused cultures, same methodology used, same results. High incidence of drug/alcohol dependence, suicide, low life expectancy, and public division. Those who escape this phenomena are willing to leave behind the culture they see as "not worth sustaining, progress is better than this." We see this in every developed nation, it is a human condition. When the numbers are high relative to the population though, something is very very wrong. Your culture is under direct or covert attack, and your most vulnerable know it first.
History shows this cycle repeats itself until a culture dies out completely, either by violent uprising or by destitution/slow depletion of their numbers (like the indigenous Guanches of the Canary Islands, virtually gone), or the culture stands together in a peaceful but firm resolve to regain their dignity, independence, and get in touch with their inner strengths that together helped them survive unknown winters before microwave ovens and treaties. (Think the civil rights movement, the assistance to Africa to recover from generations of population unrest and displacement by the slavery trade)
The balance is off in our world. Our only hope is to show solidarity, love, peace, respect for others, including their dignity and rights to fairness and cooperation to survive the hard times ahead. Having the Lakota nation regain their dignity, and solidarity is an ideology that has not been done in recent history. Either by regaining lands, or using this opportunity to regain your roots, if not the lands themselves. Implementation of self-sustaining infrastructure, including other opportunities to contribute for those of your culture who need more freedom to feel empowered than a 9-5 job gives them, does that. Those with the best ability to live with the Earth, each other, and change from exploiting it, or other peoples, will survive. That places your people in a strong position of leadership, and progression. There are people in power right now who are spreading the lies that our Earth cannot sustain us all so we must fight each other for a piece of it. You, of all nations, know this is not true. When we treat our Earth well, it will treat us well. It is NOT too late. Lead us in this.
Living in harmony with nature again is something we all should strive to do as best we can. No one can show us these lessons better than you, and your people can. Maybe if we had listened, instead of fostered greed and war and domination, our world would be a better place, and our children more at peace.
It is my hope you will stand together, no matter what the outcome of this is. If it dies away as a useless story, or it gains momentum and empowers your nation to greatness and strength, I wish you the best and respect you. Do not allow anyone to re-write your history for you. And do not allow anyone to make your history for you. Do it together. Do it now.
"
Bruce - Tatanka Ihanbla wrote on Dec 26, 2007 5:36 PM:
" After 421 comments I finally have something to say. Beside Means, Martin, Young, and Rowland who else took the plunge? How does a body sign up and then who walks the paper work through? Is there a swearing in ceremony? Just looking for answers to pesky office management details?
Is this the same Young that is on the Board for the Indian Museum in DC? If she is will she resign from the Board? "
Comment Maker wrote on Dec 26, 2007 4:03 PM:
" I totally agree that sharing would be a great option.
I just don't understand why we have these mis-leaders who go out and speak for the people and then totally mis-represent...US.
We're fighting fights unnecessarily when we could be handling this in a more diplomatic way.
You don't start a completely new government and promise people things just to get them on board. It's childish.
I'm sorry, but Russell Means is quickly diminishing his influence on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. In the end, he will have lost all our hope for the education of our people versus the United States.
We have freedoms, yes, but you don't misconstrue freedom as power.
We need new leadership and it's a fact.
Leadership today only carries us as far as to live another day. Why not look forward, in a more realistic perspective
Leadership today: Failed. "
On the Rez Lakota vs. Off the Rez Lakota wrote on Dec 26, 2007 3:51 PM:
" I find if extremely strange and also humorous that we fight amongst ourselves on what it means to be called a "Lakota". Our people who live off the Rez and have made a better life for themselves are labeled as "sell outs to the white mans ways". No wonder our children are confused on what it means to be "Lakota". Times are changing, and we as a people must change with these time, for if we continue to expect our children to live in the past for generations to come, we will get nowhere. There are many things that our children and young adults can accomplish and still be considered "Lakota" off the rez and even on the rez for that matter. Even then we stipulate, what it means to be a "True Lakota". Not every individual is going to excel in learning the traditional language, we can only hope that there will be some that will be interested enough to learn and carry it into the future. We can not force our children to learn it, no can we force them to live our culture, we can only hope that they will have enough interest in it. The young people need to be able to have a future for education and obtaining the skills to secure employment in their young adult lives. We as a people need to start and continue to build our employment opportunities to allow for jobs to be available to them. The government is not going to create them for us nor. We must give the young adults the support to establish a business and promote entrepeneurship amongst our people. The resources are there! We can not continue to sit and wait for someone else to bring these businesses to us we must create them. At this moment, there is not many jobs available to the young people who are receiving their degrees, so they find employement off the rez and then are thus labeled as "sell outs". Contrary to those people who are labeling them, I would consider them strong individuals who are finding a place in the world and surviving on the skills and education that they received to make a better life for themselves. Call them "the assimilated" or whatever you wish, but their success comes with a feeling of great pride and you might be suprised that they may not have forgotten where they come from and their heritage or culture, but have simply found a way to have the best of both "worlds". Peace and Happy Holidays! Wopila. "
To: Cooment Maker wrote on Dec 26, 2007 2:50 PM:
" I don't think the Lakota have 'give up' the Black Hills, but rather share them. I'm sure if it were put to a vote, most Lakota would opt to take their share of the trust money set up by the Black Hills Treaty of 1877 (not the Laramie Treatie). Why is it that the priveleged Lakota leaders (Means included) that are always the ones to deny the Lakota people of this? "
To: Worker wrote on Dec 26, 2007 2:08 PM:
" Nice piece of self flagulation. I was raised to believe that all peoples are created equal. To insist otherwise is the root of racism. FYI; The begining of your post and the ending are contradicting points. "
Comment Maker wrote on Dec 26, 2007 2:05 PM:
" The government has a check for the Oglala Sioux Tribe. It's been there for quite some time. It's added interest, a lot of interest. In the Billions...
Why fight for some land that we don't own anymore? Why are we fighting for the Black Hills when it's not ours to fight for anymore?
Why don't we take this money and take our Tribe out of debt, start something new.
The people who are supposed to be fighting for the Black Hills are only cashing in for their own benefits, it's a fact. And people are wising up and are finally looking beyond these wolves in sheep's skin.
The hard cold fact is that we will never "get" the Black Hills back. And even if we did...now...we would probably trash it. The truth is there.
While these leaders are "fighting" for the Black Hills, we're losing out on all of this money to better our reservation.
These so-called leaders are actually mis-lead.
They should be called mis-leaders. "
come on people Get REAL wrote on Dec 26, 2007 1:42 PM:
" Just because Means says something it doesn't make it Real. The other two men have no following and we do not need to worry because it will stay the same. The Treaty of 1868 is the Treaty we are fighting for when it come to the United States Government. Ok for the Non-Lakota.......the treaty is like a signed agreement. If you agree to pay 100,000 for you house and the one you are buying it from says no I think you are going to have to pay, 1,000,000 you would say we had an agreement. It is as simple as that. We have an agreement with the Government and we are trying to make sure they abide by their agreement.
"
Comment Maker wrote on Dec 26, 2007 1:40 PM:
" As far as I am concerned, anybody who talks against their own government(ie. the Tribe, the U.S./Constitution), it's called treason. It's talking against your own government which is what got you tied up four ways and ripped apart.
Perhaps we should deal with these nay-sayers and see how they feel for being punished on the charges of treason.
It's a reality, people. "
worker wrote on Dec 26, 2007 1:05 PM:
" I worked on a rez for seven years and would love to go back. I am a white person but I envey a lot of the Indain ways. For example, very few white people have to family support that Natives do. In my own family, I know nothing of my aunts and uncles and cousins though we all live in the same town. Natives believe in family. If I had $500.00 I would keep it for myself, Native families share their wealth when they have it. There is a lot of saddness on the Rez and a lot of despair, but there are few whites who are as strong (emotionaly) as Natives. I wish for the Native children to have a good life and grow up happy. I also wish that for everyone else that is non-Native. Overall, I wish that the Natives and whites could intermix without any judgement. Neither is better than the other. I am a wealthy person but I have no family support in anything. A lot of Natives are not wealthy but have awesome family support. Which is more important? "
the rez wrote on Dec 26, 2007 10:59 AM:
" You Don't live here you don't know what's going here.So make your own tribe since your making your own laws.Keep us Lakota's out of it. "
Bill Henderson wrote on Dec 26, 2007 6:42 AM:
" Does this mean U.S. public assistance to the reservation will end and they will be on their own for income? Did all the Lakota Sioux vote on this, or is this just a group of Sioux acting without getting the OK from the rest of the reservation? I wonder if they'll need passports to "enter" the U.S. now? "
to t wrote on Dec 25, 2007 9:44 PM:
" well since means speaks for no one but himself, doesn't have clue what he is talking about and plans to do everything with someone elses money, sounds like a democrat to me. "
Lakota Unci ( Unci means Grandmother ) wrote on Dec 25, 2007 7:33 PM:
" Does anybody realize that the majority of the people at Pine Ridge and the Districts don't know anything about this article and all of these comments? Most of them don't have computers or read the newspaper everyday. I've been reading these comments and wondering, "What do foodstamps or taxes have to do with Means statement"? I will continue to live the way I always have, and continue to treat All the people I meet with Respect and Courtesy. "
Blog reminded me.. wrote on Dec 25, 2007 5:02 PM:
" The comments noted about the Governor during the 100th anniversary of the Big Foot Riders brought back some memories. My brother was on that ride and he said the night before they arrived at Wounded Knee after many hard cold cold days of riding, means and his tv cameras appeared. He said many of the riders were also sundancers, and all of the riders felt it was very sacred, when means pulled in for the show of it they all moved away from him. They did not want the big show at a time like that. Now he is using this sacred act once again. It is good the governor waited without leaving and payed his respects. Had he lived, this state may have moved further ahead with Indian relations. "
Say "Anna Mae"..."Anna Mae"..."Anna Mae"... wrote on Dec 25, 2007 4:45 PM:
" I used to teach at Haskell, intro to radio broadcasting. Talkshow host who interviewed Banks, Peltiers daughter Marquita, both Belcourts and Means. I am a full blooded White man who has been around and in "Indian Country" for over 11 years. I have come to the conclusion that Lakota men such as Means and the "Aimster crowd" just say the "right things" but for the wrong reasons. They are self-serving and anyone can spout "Lakota traditonal words and history" using "Broken Treaty" language, even speak Lakota. This is Means "exploting Lakota Culture" for his on selish reasons. He has never helped Lakota people any more then the "Custerites" of South Dakota who spew dark black ignorance inspired from the throne of hell itself. This is a Means "opportunist" stage performance simple as that. True, Lakota have suffered but when a Means takes upon themselves the role of the "oppressor" using the Lakota history of being oppressed by and for self serving goals only, then there is no different between him and the oppresor except Means is worse. Any true Tokala who has knowledge about the raoe and murder of Anna Mae, would bring forth that knowledge. What would Crazy Horse do to those guilty? And be assured, he does know who is guilty and he will meet them when they enter into the spirit world even as he met Belcourt brother 1. Crazy Horse saw, heard, and felt the agony of Anna Mae and that is the difference between him and all the other Aimsters who's cowardace reeks with the stench of a George Custer and his 7th Calvary. Thus Means has no credibility, no integrity and his treatment of women is a testimony to the fact that his life is not representative of anything Lakotaor Native period. This means he has no authority to represent the people in any capacity whatsover because he has only hurt them. There are Lakota men and women who are worthy of this cause much more then Means or anyone else in the dufunct and shamed AIM movement. They are the ones who's relationship with Tunkashala is respectful, who love their Oyate brothers and sisters, and who are worthy of the title of "Warrior" or "Leader". They are humble and not proud after the order of the white man. They know that the spirituality of being Lakota is for them to love one another in good ways, the ways of the Red Road. Means and his Anna Mae murdering co-horts represent the Black Road and the Lakota should never ever forget that. For if you are willing to RAPE and MURDER a pure in heart Indigenous woman or know who did and you confess not or say not, then how can you represent the "relations of"? "
t wrote on Dec 25, 2007 3:07 PM:
" I think Russell would be a great candidate for the Republican Party, he is blunt and cares for his own pocket "
Peace wrote on Dec 25, 2007 1:45 PM:
" The Treaty of Fort Laramie 1851 post if accurate is much different than I would have expected. It has been many years since I looked at it and it seemed less relevant then. As you read the Treaty of Fort Laramie now, you are left wondering why on earth an Indian ever would site this document. It sounds like the purpose of Article 1 was to facilitate peace between the tribes. Article 7. Goes on to say that the United States would pay the Indian nations the sum of fifty thousand dollars per annum for the term of ten years and if the President decided up to 5 more years. Previously it is stated that this is compensation for their maintenance and the improvement of their moral and social customs (whatever that meant). This all sounds out dated but it clearly states there was a definite sunset clause of 15 years for this treaty. "
AJ Hartje wrote on Dec 25, 2007 10:18 AM:
" TO RE: FORT LARAMIE TREATY: Did anyone else actually read this overly long (for a message-board post) item? I'll admit that I've only briefly perused it, but it appears to me that, if this is all we're to go on, it's certainly different than I've been led to believe. First, it seems that it can be read to mean that boundaries were established to let the Natives know where one tribe's lands end and another's begin. Second, it appears that the United States was supposed to stop subsidizing the Natives about 140 years ago. Regardless of interpretation, I can't really see where there have been unilateral aggregious violations to what seems a relatively benign document. Of course, as I said, I only briefly perused it. I"m sure that you can find all sorts of things if you read it enough times. I'm just not certain that - taking this document only - those are things that are actually there. Merry Christmas! "
to to to chuckling wrote on Dec 25, 2007 9:20 AM:
" what a shock. although the security we get from ATTACKING the terrorists on their soil benefits all Americans, all you can think of is how the money spent could have benefited YOU and YOURS. "
To: To chuckling wrote on Dec 25, 2007 3:55 AM:
" If you think the Narcostate that is Afghanistan today and for many generations to come is good for your security and if you think that the failed state of Iraq which will turn into a cause celebre for generations of Islamic militants is good for your safety and worth the hundreds and hundreds of billions of dollars that the weapons industry earned because of them and the tens of thousands of lost lives ... You are living in an Illusion. That money and energy could have been used for much better things inside our own country, for example in dealing with the injustices done to the native peoples of our country. "
lucky wrote on Dec 24, 2007 10:52 PM:
" These are the things I know. Things I have always known since I was a small boy. I didnt learn these things, I knew them from the begining when I first became aware of myself and the world around me. The natives of this country didnt loose to the Army. They didnt loose because of superier weapons. They didnt loose because of disease. They didnt loose. What they lost was there way. Sacred pacts made with the buffalo were forgotten. They killed not for what they needed, but to trade for things they WANTED. Things the whites had. This brought on there defeate, not the whites. The whites were only the means, not the weapon. Because they broke those sacred pacts, the buffalo were almost erased from the face of the earth. As it was told they would be. That was the end of the Native, not the whites. Also, because they never united to become 1 tribe. The reason the whites were brought here. The only way the natives will ever return to a fraction of what they were is to become 1 tribe. No Lakota, no Crow, no Navaho. 1 people, a native people. Look back at the few battles where even a few tribes united togather in a fight. They not only won those fights, they won convincingly. Little Big Horn (Greasy Grass) comes to mind. Because they broke there sacred pacts, and because they refused to see the path was to unite into 1 people, they were forced to indure there own Apocolips. The pact the natives had with the buffalo was a sacred as the one Abreham had with god. Breaking this pact ment, like the Hebrews of Egypt, they had to repent. It also means they 1 day will be freed. Born a new nation. 1 nation. A native nation. How long they suffer at the hands of bondage depends on how long it takes for them to see they have to become 1. The creator has finished half of this rebirth. The buffalo have returned from almost certin extinshion. When we become 1 native tribe, the sacred hoop will be complete. We will agian have found grace. This is the return of the White Buffalo. Not a calf. A nation. Study history. Study the teachings. Study your hearts. Then tell me Im wrong. I did not learn these things. I knew them from the first time I became aware. I remember the first dream. The stars came togather to form 1 light with total darkness all around it. A voice said "I will come". "
m wrote on Dec 24, 2007 10:45 PM:
" Means must think he is getting what he wants. Fortunately the haters I see on here are the minority in my experience. Too bad the rest of us will have to deal with the repercussions of their stunted emotions and impulsiveness. "
Lakota Youth wrote on Dec 24, 2007 8:34 PM:
" FYI: I did not agree to this, and I'm sure a majority of the Lakota who can think for themselves did not agree to this motion either. The Russell can huff and puff and try to blow the house down, but only the tribal council canu. make legal motions. If for some reason the U.S. illegally agrees to their motion, we will only be a starving dying race once more, and the black hills will still NOT be ours to freely roam. Think 7 generations ahead people, not in this moment. "
Re:High stakes roller wrote on Dec 24, 2007 8:29 PM:
" I hope you are reading the blogs along with everyone else. Let us take a full view of Mr. Means' plan. He does not have the support of our Lakota people. Get real, he drives people crazy because he misses the one true Value of our People. It is humility! As Lakota people we understand the people he surrounds himself with but outsiders do not. I would be fully impressed if I saw more names in the paper or I would have heard about this in our local communities. As for you not coming to our casino, well there will be others because Greed is most likely the Biggest Value in American Society. We will continue to grow our base of tourists and someday it will be a large part of our economic development and hopefully we will not rely on one enterprise to run our tribe. We have obstacles such as, no tax base. The government set this up and because people do not have to pay taxes on there property we struggle. It will be a great day when our Lakota homeowners and stockholders are paying property taxes. Then we can build our own civic centers and swimming centers our youth centers. We have many good people and even though I sometimes believe it is overwhelming I am still here on the homeland. So Mr. High Stakes Roller I say by you leaving it just makes room for another High Stakes Roller because as our ancestors understood, the White man will continue to come to our homeland. And a little personal advise, Don't listen to Russel Means without understanding that He doesn't speak for Our Lakota Nation. hecetoyelo Thank you "
to chuckling wrote on Dec 24, 2007 7:45 PM:
" yes, the war is a drain, but at least we get something out of it in return (safety). "
Human Rights are essential to peace in the world wrote on Dec 24, 2007 7:19 PM:
" Great posting of the 1851 Laramie Treaty. A treaty is the supreme law of the land according to the U.S. Constitution and is recognized as an international document. It is also a historical and modern process between peoples and nations all over the world in aiding in the contract negotiation of peace and economics as well as politics. The indigenous people on this board as well as the non should really think about this and pay close attention to the territory listed in the treaty. Is the U.S. as well as yourself honorable if so there should be no argument here. The people should respect this law if there is respect for themselves and their nation. In saying so, it has been proven for the last 156 years that the people of the U.S. and the U.S. itself do not respect order, peace, law and the usual way of conducting business internationally through treaties. Russ Means understands this and now is declaring the treaties to be useless, null and void and no more valuable than the paper it is written on. We no go back to the status of the land as it were when the negotiation of the 1851 Treaty begun. That is all that is going on here, if the Indigenous people and the non are to scared to talk rational about the process and then I could see "civilization" has not taken roots in american society and has withered the indigenous peoples society to a point where thier civilation has withered also. Go Russ Go!!! "
gone wrote on Dec 24, 2007 6:55 PM:
" fine if they are not a american the kick them out of the country and make them get a green card "
Human Rights RE: rights of indian tribes post wrote on Dec 24, 2007 6:54 PM:
" I have read Stephan Pevars rights of indian tribes and do own a copy. It is a good reference for dealing within the confines of our colonial governments ie. Indian Reorganization Act based governments, however it does not lay a path to living as an independent nation or people. He does state that the only obstacle to independence for the indigenous people is the fact that the U.S. has a powerful military. What he his saying is that Ultimately the United States has no say whatsoever over the original people of this continent and we only comply because of the treat of military force. Many indigenous people on this blog come across as if they are more American and European than indigenous. It seems as if they are content on being occupied by a foreign nation. These are the negative people that hold us back from living a better existence. Go Russell Go!!! "
Mr. Supreme Commander wrote on Dec 24, 2007 2:34 PM:
" I think Russel Means is a good actor. "
Think about it wrote on Dec 24, 2007 1:15 PM:
" 392 comments, for what, Russell grandsatnd, people are still cold and doing without while he lives off his donations and scheming, not a thing in return to the true oyate, pretty sad becuase Bruce and the rest are still tearing each other apart and they to are failing in substance "
High stakes roller wrote on Dec 24, 2007 10:59 AM:
" Seems to me these people are cutting off a leg to spite a stubbed toe. I would think that they would be curtious and cater to the people who frequented their casinos. Since this has started, i have had to rethink everything. I will no longer go to where i now know i am despised and loathed. And i will not encourage anyone else to either. "
Former Rezzer wrote on Dec 24, 2007 10:27 AM:
" Thanks Russell "Meaningless" for your proclamations, that's just what the reservation needs! If you had any real solutions to our people's troubles, you would have done something productive with all of the money you have received over the years to help them with. Offer something viable, then maybe you will finally get the legitamacy that you seek, by the way, own up to your part in the Anna Mae incident and maybe you will be respected as a man! "
YEAH!! wrote on Dec 24, 2007 8:30 AM:
" Go for it Russ, And when the foodstamps stop and the BIA checks don't show up and the welfare stops...who ya gonna call...Russel and ask him for your money. Native pride has never been brighter. "
Re: The Rights of Indians and Tribes wrote on Dec 24, 2007 8:20 AM:
" A must-read: 'The Rights of Indians and Tribes' Email this page Print this page Posted: November 06, 2002 by: Editors Report / Indian Country Today The value of accurate and timely information on Indian affairs is paramount. We often wish that all young Native students, certainly by high school level, would have a clear understanding of their tribal history, and of the cultural and legal foundations that American Indians have under U.S. law. Unfortunately, this is not the case. Not only students but also many Native adults have incomplete information on important issues facing their nations. Of course, much of the general American population is still largely ignorant of the actual bases of American Indian status in federal law. The updated, third edition of the guide by the American Civil Liberties Union, called "The Rights of Indians and Tribes," published by Southern Illinois University Press, could go a long way in assisting the general education of tribal peoples on this important theme. Organized in a question and answer format, the new edition is more accessible than most reference books. Its wide distribution will help to encourage Native students, indeed, all Native people, to become fluent in what makes American Indian tribal nations unique in the United States. We congratulate its principal author, attorney Stephen L. Pevar, for this valuable contribution, which upholds the general ACLU philosophy that "an informed citizenry is the best guarantee that the government will respect civil liberties." Pevar, who cut his teeth as a legal aid attorney on Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota during the turbulent early 1970s, is well suited to the task. There is a lot to know about Indian rights and perhaps this is what makes it difficult to have a clear idea of its foundations. The legal structure of Indian tribal and individual standing in federal law, which would seem simple and clear, is actually quite complex and often obscure, built not only on discovery and conquest but also on a convoluted and contradictory history of shifting federal policies as well as hundreds of precedent-setting court cases. This makes it difficult to understand, explain and argue the many issues of tribes from solid positions. This book that explains, by its question and answer method the many twists and turns of tribal self-determination, will also provide useful avenues of defense. The history is primarily one of rights retained, fought over and held by sheer force of courage and wit, with not a little stubbornness and a lot of sweat. To paraphrase from the introduction: "A better question to ask than "Do I [we] have the right to do this?" is "Does the government have the right to stop me [us] from doing this?" With Indian rights, as many leaders have reminded their tribes, you either "use them or lose them." Pevar's book provides an excellent overview of the contradictory history of shifting federal Indian policy, from the period of complete tribal independence through the time dominated by treaties, to relocation, allotment and assimilation, Indian reorganization and termination of tribes, to the current policy of tribal self-governance, written into law in 1975. The specific definitions and uses of such terms as Indian Country, Indian tribe, Indian title, are provided, as is excellent and succinct analysis of issues, citing court cases and patterns of history. As Pevar explains, he is attempting to describe, as directly as possible, where Indian rights actually stand, what it is, rather than what "ought to be." For all the economic gains of the past decade, Indian country is in bad shape still. One third of Indian households remains below the poverty level, in homes suffering substandard conditions. Unemployment in many reservations is upwards of 50 percent and some places as much as 80 percent. At Navajo, 80-plus percent of homes have no telephone service. Despite the major economic gains of high-stakes gaming establishments, Indian country is quite impoverished. Pevar's book cites consistent sources in court cases, Native scholarship and the Native press. We are pleased that Indian Country Today was useful to Pevar as a source of reference. Pevar's book delineates the range of doctrine, policy and practice that encompasses Indian rights. Pevar answers pertinent questions on Trust responsibility; Indian treaties; federal power over Indians; criminal jurisdiction in Indian country; civil jurisdiction in Indian country; taxation; Indian hunting and fishing rights; Indian water rights; civil rights of Indians; the Indian Civil Rights Act; the unique status of certain Indian groups; Indian gaming; the Indian Child Welfare Act and judicial review. This very important knowledge resource should be required reading for every Native high school and college student in the country. Not a few others in Indian country could also benefit by its insightful and refreshing information. Pevar pins down the legal scoop on many interesting situations, such as the case of dual citizenship status, whether an Indian can be a U.S. citizen and a citizen of a tribal nation at the same time. An American Indian can. This was decided in a Supreme Court case of 1916. On Trust responsibility: "The promises made in exchange for millions of acres of tribal land impose on the federal government 'moral obligations of the highest responsibility and trust.'" Of great importance in relationship to federal law is that the rights of Indians and tribes are not based on racial definitions. Pevar: "ﾅ the Constitution expressly authorizes Congress to regulate commerce with Indian tribes; thus, there is a constitutional basis for enacting laws unique to Indians." Laws relating to Indians are not to be viewed as racial legislation. Why? Because Indians "were early inhabitants of this territory." Judged the Supreme Court in 1974: "The Constitution gives Congress the power to treat Indians as a 'separate people.'" This "Plenary power" of Congress over Indian tribes can be a double-edged sword. Beyond the quagmire of race classification is the potential that Congress will again limit Indian rights or may attempt to once again terminate tribal nations from federal recognition. In 1995, this danger almost took a serious bite out of Indian legal standing. A series of bills that some say would have been a mortal blow to the whole structure of American Indian tribal rights, mostly the brainchild of U.S. Senator Slade Gorton, R-Wash., were barely fought off. A congressional fight of major proportions was needed, and tribes did ultimately prevail against the malignant legislation. Later, the same tribes who fought Gorton helped to defeat him with an Indian-endorsed democrat as opponent. In that campaign, as we will see increasingly, it was the power of solid information and the ability to broadcast it that won the day for U.S. tribes. Pevar's book is a good contribution to building a constructive base of knowledgeable people that can link up to be effective pro-tribal advocates in national campaigns. Tribes might consider giving this book away to their many friends and acquaintances this holiday season. It will be a gift to the benefit of all our generations. "
Re: TREATY OF FORT LARAMIE 1851 wrote on Dec 24, 2007 8:09 AM:
" TREATY OF FORT LARAMIE September 17, 1851 Articles of a treaty made and concluded at Fort Laramie, in the Indian Territory, between D. D. Mitchell, superintendent of Indian affairs, and Thomas Fitzpatrick, Indian agent, commissioners specially appointed and authorized by the President of the United States, of the first part, and the chiefs, headmen, and braves of the following Indian nations, residing south of the Missouri River, east of the Rocky Mountains, and north of the lines of Texas and New Mexico, viz, the Sioux or Dahcotahs, Cheyennes, Arrapahoes, Crows, Assinaboines, Gros-Ventre Mandans, and Arrickaras, parties of the second part, on the seventeenth day of September, A.D. one thousand eight hundred and fifty-one. (a) ARTICLE 1. The aforesaid nations, parties to this treaty, having assembled for the purpose of establishing and confirming peaceful relations amongst themselves, do hereby covenant and agree to abstain in future from all hostilities whatever against each other, to maintain good faith and friendship in all their mutual intercourse, and to make an effective and lasting peace. ARTICLE 2. The aforesaid nations do hereby recognize the right of the United States Government to establish roads, military and other posts, within their respective territories. ARTICLE 3. In consideration of the rights and privileges acknowledged in the preceding article, the United States bind themselves to protect the aforesaid Indian nations against the commission of all depredations by the people of the said United States, after the ratification of this treaty. ARTICLE 4. The aforesaid Indian nations do hereby agree and bind themselves to make restitution or satisfaction for any wrongs committed, after the ratification of this treaty, by any band or individual of their people, on the people of the United States, whilst lawfully residing in or passing through their respective territories. ARTICLE 5. The aforesaid Indian nations do hereby recognize and acknowledge the following tracts of country, included within the metes and boundaries hereinafter designated, as their respective territories, viz; The territory of the Sioux or Dahcotah Nation, commencing the mouth of the White Earth River, on the Missouri River; thence in a southwesterly direction to the forks of the Platte River; thence up the north fork of the Platte River to a point known as the Red Buts, or where the road leaves the river; thence along the range of mountains known as the Black Hills, to the head-waters of Heart River; thence down Heart River to its mouth; and thence down the Missouri River to the place of beginning. The territory of the Gros Ventre, Mandans, and Arrickaras Nations, commencing at the month of Heart River; thence up the Missouri River to the mouth of the Yellowstone River; thence up the Yellowstone River to the mouth of Powder River in a southeasterly direction, to the head-waters of the Little Missouri River; thence along the Black Hills to the head of Heart River, and thence down Heart River to the place of beginning. The territory of the Assinaboin Nation, commencing at the mouth of Yellowstone River; thence up the Missouri River to the mouth of the Muscle-shell River; thence from the mouth of the Muscle-shell River in a southeasterly direction until it strikes the head-waters of Big Dry Creek; thence down that creek to where it empties into the Yellowstone River, nearly opposite the mouth of Powder River, and thence down the Yellowstone River to the place of beginning. The territory of the Blackfoot Nation, commencing at the mouth of Muscle-shell River; thence up the Missouri River to its source; thence along the main range of the Rocky Mountains, in a southerly direction, to the head-waters of the northern source of the Yellowstone River; thence down the Yellowstone River to the mouth of Twenty-five Yard Creek; thence across to the head-waters of the Muscle-shell River, and thence down the Muscle-shell River to the place of beginning. The territory of the Crow Nation, commencing at the mouth of Powder River on the Yellowstone; thence up Powder River to its source; thence along the main range of the Black Hills and Wind River Mountains to the head-waters of the Yellowstone River; thence down the Yellowstone River to the mouth of Twenty-five Yard Creek; thence to the head waters of the Muscle-shell River; thence down the Muscle-shell River to its mouth; thence to the head-waters of Big Dry Creek, and thence to its mouth. The territory of the Cheyennes and Arrapahoes, commencing at the Red Bute, or the place where the road leaves the north fork of the Platte River; thence up the north fork of the Platte River to its source; thence along the main range of the Rocky Mountains to the head-waters of the Arkansas River; thence down the Arkansas River to the crossing of the Santa Fe' road; thence in a northwesterly direction to the forks of the Platte River, and thence up the Platte River to the place of beginning. It is, however, understood that, in making this recognition and acknowledgement, the aforesaid Indian nations do not hereby abandon or prejudice any rights or claims they may have to other lands; and further, that they do not surrender the privilege of hunting, fishing, or passing over any of the tracts of country heretofore described. ARTICLE 6. The parties to the second part of this treaty having selected principals or head-chiefs for their respective nations, through whom all national business will hereafter be conducted, do hereby bind themselves to sustain said chiefs and their successors during good behavior. ARTICLE 7. In consideration of the treaty stipulations, and for the damages which have or may occur by reason thereof to the Indian nations, parties hereto, and for their maintenance and the improvement of their moral and social customs, the United States bind themselves to deliver to the said Indian nations the sum of fifty thousand dollars per annum for the term of ten years, with the right to continue the same at the discretion of the President of the United States for a period not exceeding five years thereafter, in provisions merchandise, domestic animals, and agricultural implements, in such proportions as may be deemed best adapted to their condition by the President of the United States, to be distributed in proportion to the population of the aforesaid Indian nations. ARTICLE 8. It is understood and agreed that should any of the Indian nations, parties to this treaty, violate any of the provisions thereof, the United States may withhold the whole or a portion of the annuities mentioned in the preceding article from the nation so offending, until, in the opinion of the President of the United States, proper satisfaction shall have been made. In testimony whereof the said D. D. Mitchell and Thomas Fitzpatrick commissioners as aforesaid, and the chiefs, headmen, and braves, parties hereto, have set their hands and affixed their marks, on the day and at the place first above written. D. D. Mitchell Thomas Fitzpatrick Commissioners. Sioux: Mah-toe-wha-you-whey, his x mark, Mah-kah-toe-zah-zah, his x mark, Bel-o-ton-kah-tan-ga, his x mark, Nah-ka-pah-gi-gi, his x mark, Mak-toe-sah-bi-chis, his x mark, Meh-wha-tah-ni-hans-kah, his x mark, Cheyennes: Wah-ha-nis-satta, his x mark, Voist-ti-toe-vetz, his x mark, Nahk-ko-me-ien, his x mark, Koh-kah-y-wh-cum-est, his x mark, Arrapahoes: Be-ah-te‚-a-qui-sah, his x mark, Neb-ni-bah-seh-it, his x mark, Beh-kah-jay-beth-sah-es, his x mark, Crows: Arra-tu-ri-sash, his x mark, Doh-chepit-seh-chi-es, his x mark, Assinaboines: Mah-toe-wit-ko, his x mark, Toe-tah-ki-eh-nan, his x mark, Mandans and Gros Ventres: Nochk-pit-shi-toe-pish, his x mark, She-oh-mant-ho, his x mark, Arickarees: Koun-hei-ti-shan, his x mark, Bi-atch-tah-wetch, his x mark, In the presence of--- A. B. Chambers, secretary. S. Cooper, colonel, U. S. Army. R. H. Chilton, captain, First Drags. Thomas Duncan, captain, Mounted Rifiemen. Thos. G. Rhett, brevet captain R. M. R. W. L. Elliott, first lieutenant R. M. R. C. Campbell, interpreter for Sioux. John S. Smith, interpreter for Cheyennes. Robert Meldrum, interpreter for the Crows. H. Culbertson, interpreter for Assiniboines and Gros Ventres. Francois L'Etalie, interpreter for Arickarees. John Pizelle, interpreter for the Arrapahoes. B. Gratz Brown. Robert Campbell. Edmond F. Chouteau. (a) This treaty as signed was ratified by the Senate with an amendment changing the annuity in Article 7 from fifty to ten years, subject to acceptance by the tribes. Assent of all tribes except the Crows was procured (see Upper Platte C., 570, 1853, Indian Office) and in subsequent agreements this treaty has been recognized as in force (see post p. 776). "
Chuckling wrote on Dec 24, 2007 6:50 AM:
" Chuckle, chuckle...Yeah we are going to be about as sovereign as Iraq or Afganistan. I really hate it when non-Indians think we are the only drain on the taxpayers money, Bush's war has taken way more than we ever have. Also, you can really see the racism at work here, good 'ol South Dakota can never quite get over their frontier mentality, but have to agree with some of them. Rez people, get out and start businesses or work or go to college or do anything besides what we have now. Seems like the only businesses anyone wants to start are drug dealing and supplying ventures. There are way too many people unemployed and to just sit home and accept it is sad and not what we are about or at least not what we were at one time a couple of generations ago and beyond. And people, watch your kids! I've never seen so many unsupervised kids, some as young as 10 years old, running around the LNI late at night and into the wee hours of the morning and keeping law abiding people from sleeping. It was just horrible to see there are actually that many parents that do not know what the heck their kids are up to!!! Go to work and watch your kids and life will be much easier. "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 24, 2007 6:18 AM:
" 37. Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38. This is the first and greatest commandment. 39. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. 40. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." "
Chase Ousdahl wrote on Dec 24, 2007 4:30 AM:
" Why does the headline even refer to the Lakota?Shouldn't it read "Russ mean's group"?.How would we like it if a headline read "all Americans on welfare" even though a minute proportion receives such?Or"South Dakota grows and smokes Hemp"?Even though very few do and more reject the notion?Very bad edit RCJ!Very bad!I see the opening line was rewritten.Yikes that was scary. "
Sonja wrote on Dec 24, 2007 4:10 AM:
" Congratulations Lakota people, excellent move. About time! I am sure that in my country, the Netherlands, you will get lots of support. It would be wise to also address the European Parliament about this. I wish you all the luck in the world. "
Re: Dear Russel Means wrote on Dec 24, 2007 4:05 AM:
" I agree....I really do start foaming at the mouth, and scratching my head after reading some of the non-sense written on these comments. I now realize what "native pride" really means. It means to instill hate in your childrens heart, So that from the moment they are born.....They believe that there will be no accountability for any of their actions and that "any and all" short comings are a result of someone else. "NATIVE PRIDE" "
RE:chubby native wrote on Dec 24, 2007 4:04 AM:
" "we've become what our ancestors fought against...">Sounds like a worthy battle.Why'd you quit?As much as I disagree with Russ as a leader and see him as selfserving nut-case,I can at least say he is "doing" and not simply resting or surrendering his ancestors hard fought battles.He may be going about it all wrong but at least he hasn't let the ancestors die in vain as your defeatist attitude reveals."If it is to be it is up to me" is the attitude I would hear in this discussion.All I hear is talk about money and unrealistic "give it back" discussion.Russ has the right idea.But it must start at home.With one person.Now,preach what you practice and start over. "
just asking wrote on Dec 24, 2007 3:48 AM:
" What about the school he was supposed to be starting at porc? Where is the money that people have contributed to in order for him to (not) get it started. Nonsense again is what I say. And the press continues to give him front page headlines!!! Learn from this new "publicity" stunt. "
RE: Dear Russel Means: wrote on Dec 23, 2007 10:36 PM:
" Ouch, the cheap shots.. I hope Means succeeds so no more of this descendant of immigrants that arrived by sail can see his tax dollars be put to good use! "
Dear Russel Means: wrote on Dec 23, 2007 9:56 PM:
" Please take it easy on the descendant immigrants that arrived by sail, as most of them only learned about history from sodbuster verbage or in the alternative possibly what was taught them in grade school, high school. When you start talking about sovereignty or fiduciary trust responsibility most of the minds are blank and they start foaming at the mouth cause they think you called them a name or something like that. Anyway, Russel, hang in there and good to hear your perspective now and then, albeit it is a mind boggler to say the least. Remember, take it easy on these South Dakotans as it can be a difficult task to get most to walk and chew gum at the same time. If you know what I mean. Toksa ake. "
Reservation Mama wrote on Dec 23, 2007 9:36 PM:
" I am a lakota mother from the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation and who is Russell MEans? From what I know, he is someone who started a lot of trouble for us(AIM) then up and left. we lost people to his selfishness, he comes to Pine Ridge for his picture to be taken then he goes to find his next gig. He has done nothing but hurt our people, if he was so interested in helping our people he would not show up around the time of the camera. AND WE ARE VERY WEALTHY< if the white man didnt take our land it would be all of you tourists paying US NAtive American to even step foot on our homeland. THE BLACK HILLS ARE OURS, NOT RUSSELLS, and surely not the white man. OURS "
Think about it wrote on Dec 23, 2007 9:20 PM:
" The rent bill for our lands you are using is more than you can afford, so stop with the our money bit, you owe more than you can afford in reality "
Turk wrote on Dec 23, 2007 8:50 PM:
" Heres the reality of it. A billion dollars is alot of money. Get real use the money. "
Arizona native wrote on Dec 23, 2007 8:28 PM:
" Means needs to look at other reservations in this country. People are proud to live there, white or Native. They prosper and have good economies and populations the size of Rapid City. They also have histories of abuse at the hands of the government. The only reason natives here have lived so horribly on the res isn't because they got the worst treatment from the U.S.; it's because they're the only ones left who won't put down their weapons and comprimise. I'm not saying they didn't have maltreatment and don't suffer, I'm saying they continue the cycles that other tribes in America have rejected. They don't care enough about the futures of the children they find so sacred. "
OLD HOT SPRINGS BOY wrote on Dec 23, 2007 7:24 PM:
" I sure wish the Indian people all the luck in the world. It will take luck and a good plan for them to get the Paha Sapa back even though it was ceded to them by General Harney in 1856. It seems to me that Lakotas might be smart to take the dough and hire a smart politician to broker a deal to buy up some Forest Service land that Indian people could live in. It would help the national debt, too. "
che wrote on Dec 23, 2007 5:20 PM:
" Childron of God?Murder, stabbings,Rampert drug use,alcholism where does the bible teach you that. "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 23, 2007 3:45 PM:
" to che, The Lakota have become children of god and are no longer the children of earth. we have become what our ancestors fought agianst. "
stan van houcke wrote on Dec 23, 2007 3:38 PM:
" as an outsider from amsterdam in the netherlands i wonder why so many white americans start talking about money when the issue is freedom for the indian tribes who have suffered so long from the genocidal politics of white folks who can only think about money.freedom now for all the indians, wherever they live! and you know where to put your money. "
Eric Stewart wrote on Dec 23, 2007 3:30 PM:
" Nearly every attempt to debunk the legitimacy of this has pretended that this was a delegation of Russel, Russel Means, Mr. Means, and R. Means. It was not. I would like anyone that is interested in debunking this to try to debunk the OTHER THREE people that were part of this delegation. It seems to me that we are focusing only on the one voice that may be, in some circles, easily discredited and this tells its own story. "
If Russel Means can get you all riled up over his intentions wrote on Dec 23, 2007 2:52 PM:
" If Russel Means can get you all riled up over his intentions, and remember he does not speak for everyone, then I say Means has excellent capabilities to mobilize people. I still think some of you should get Russel Means more acting roles in movies to keep him busy. We all have to remember that Russel Means is an actor and very good at it. He has excellent oratorical skills, we have to give him credit for that. Just let him do what he says he wants to do and it will lose its luster after awhile. By then those acting parts that some of you would be lining up for him would keep him focused on the next project. I remember back in December 1990 during the 100th anniversary of Wounded Knee, even George Mikkelson, the former Governor of South Dakota was there at the gravesite, and what does Russel Means do, Means blocks Governor Mikkelson from entering the Wounded Knee gravesite and Mikkelson then just went back to his suburban with the others traveling with him and waited until Russel Means left the area and Governor Mikkelson then paid his respects to the fallen from the Massacre of Wounded Knee of 1890. So to Russel Means and everyone else Happy Holidays to all, if you believe that way. Action! "
TO; THINK ABOUT IT>>> wrote on Dec 23, 2007 1:16 PM:
" No we never recovered from Wilson Administration because it was the last time we had a real STRONG leader. It was the last time our Tribe was not in the RED financially. until Al Trimble went into office and wiped out all the economic development. We had the plastics, moccasin, pottery, archery, electronics factories, PEOPLE HAD JOBS !!! even the kids had jobs. We had IYC, NYC and college students were given priority as summer supervisors when they came home for the summer. All of Dick Wilsons brothers were veterans and he believed in supporting our veterans to his death. By the way.. just so everyone knows means was never a leader in 1973 either!! he lost twice to Dick Wilson and again in 2006. what does that tell you out there about what our Lakota people think of means. he has never been in it for the people and never will be. He doesn't speak for me because he was never chosen by the Lakota people to speak for me. I was a Wilson Supporter then and still am. Yeah russ tell us all about anna mae! "
sam wrote on Dec 23, 2007 12:49 PM:
" you all can stop whining about tax breaks and welfare money... the majority of welfare goes to huge corporations like Wal- Mart.... and that won't change anytime soon "
Please understand wrote on Dec 23, 2007 12:41 PM:
" All of us need to sit back and think about what this is all about. Yes in the past their were atrocities against the Native American people and that is fact. Today our lives are dependent on each other, as for example, in this fine country of ours the fine upstanding men and women that we have in uniform for the United States are protecting us in our freedoms throughout all our lands. We have in our military, all races representative in all our branches of the military fighting for our country. So, please all of us, think about it, the other day South Dakota lost a soldier in Afghanistan. His name was Cpl. Tanner O'Leary, a Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Member. So, South Dakotans let's work together as our military members in the various armed forces have taught us. Our strength is in our bonds to each other and the Native Americans have a higher percentage of their people represented in the military, more than any other race in this nation. Happy Holidays to all of you and remember all of our peoples have gone through difficult times in the past, we now have to try and understand our fellow man to become united in our efforts to deal with whatever comes before us. Thank you. "
che wrote on Dec 23, 2007 12:31 PM:
" to"chubby native",how many tons of trash did the forest service take from Yellow Thunder Camp,how much from wind cave ,Get a grip,you are your own worst land pollutor,look at the rez now,around settlements,then say the land is barren. "
Ira Zarnoff Cherokee wrote on Dec 23, 2007 11:56 AM:
" Dago! i am Ira Zarnoff Cherokee i am offering my help and support of my Lakota Brothers... if you have a direct connection to them please send this to them....i am a Teacher and have much knowledge for our people...children and adults... ani yun wiya Shalom "
trueNative wrote on Dec 23, 2007 11:35 AM:
" Who's side is Russell Means really on? All of us people need to wake up to who will be imprisoning us all with a soon to come Police State. This country is slowly becoming one big reservation if we don't all work together as "a people" to sovereign ourselves from big brother. Wake up! "
TO: Just a realist wrote on Dec 23, 2007 10:26 AM:
" Very well said!!! But hate to add a few things. I too (as well as many other races) would love to bury the hatchet, and embrace these people who, approximately 130 years ago were taken advantage of, and establish a brotherhood with them. But, the cold hard facts are this,if someone will not accept help, you cannot force the issue. We as a country, are enabling them to remain in their state of poverty, simular to the drug dealer who sells drugs to the addict, knowing full well, that he has him in the grips of his own addiction, or the bartender who gives the drunkard a drink,knowing to do so will just keep him in a state of oblivian. I do not condone cutting them off "cold turkey" from federal assistance, but rather, perhaps...Figure out how to show some "tough love" to these people in hopes that they will become cohereant to today's reality's. I am only too aware, that what you assert yourself in life, is what you will get out of it. If you live in the negative....Most likely, you will receive negative. If you are possitive, you will receive possitive. This is not always the case, but it seems to be of realistic logic to me and those i have associated with in the 50 years of my life. Like the comment that : just a realist wrote...I too am a business owner and started out with money i had saved for years. The one thing that made it successfull was that i had to adopt an attitude of possitivity and if i am to excell and succeed, It is "solely up to me"!!! I have and continue to employ people of every race and when hiring, I look first and foremost, the qualifacations, respect as an employer, and visa versa, elgibility as a United States citizen, and their attitude in general. Regardless of a persons age, sex, race, creed, or beliefs...If you come to me looking for work and you have a negitive and hatefull attitude...Chances are...I am not going to hire you. But most importantly, if you come to me with a willingness to learn, a possitive outlook, and capeable of showing me respect as well as receiving respect, than you have certainly got your foot inside my door. "
Re: Just a Realist wrote on Dec 23, 2007 10:20 AM:
" A very well written piece that covers all the points. "
Just a Realist wrote on Dec 23, 2007 9:02 AM:
" Just wondering what the major source to this new Nation's economy will be once they are out from under Uncle Sam's wing. Will it be industry, farming and ranching, tourism, business, or mining? What will it be? What have you done to ensure that you can stand on your own two feet? How many time will you continue to bite the hand that feeds you. I for one, am sick of being made to feel that I as a white man I am the source of all your problems. It will never change though. I will continue to support the charities that sustain you, the churhes that support you, and continue to let you hate me. If you truely want to be independant you would have done so long ago. You would have stood up on your own two feet. I am a business man, 18 years in business, and I know that there are far more programs, government grants, public assistance for you than there ever where for me. The one big difference is you CHOOSE not to use them and continue to blame everyone else for your problems. Again if you TRUELY want to be independant (which I have my doubts) you would stop living for the negative, making excuses for your problems, and start focusing on all the opportunities out there for you. Everyone knows they are there, but they just choose not to use them. You call your own people sell outs or "assimilated indians" when they embrace those opportunities and succeed. The only obsticles in your way are the ones you have placed. I would love to help teach business, investing, and healthly life style choices. What a great partnership that would be. Myself along with thousands of others throughout the last fifty years have be willing to do so. We have been met with resistance, hostility, and threats. No one wants to see you fail but you yourselves. If you don't believe that to be true, than I ask you to open your eyes and see the numerous types of aid you receive every month of every year. Churches, charities, youth groups, organisations of all types want to help you and you haven't recognized it yet. Will you ever help yourselves? "
Passports wrote on Dec 23, 2007 3:28 AM:
" Cool Great Idea , Now we should have to approve their passports allowing them to leave The Lakota Nation and enter the USA. Sorry just gives and bad name to the 90% that are decent always gotta be that 10% that ruins it. "
IKTOMI wrote on Dec 23, 2007 3:05 AM:
" ALL LAKOTAS SEEK JUSTICE. I WOULD LIKE TO SEE RUSSEL AND THE LAWYERS CONTINUE WITH THIS PROCESS, JUST TO SEE WHERE IT LEADS. I DO NOT SEE THE LAKOTA CEDING FROM THE US, BUT WHAT IF HE DOES FIND A BETTER WAY, YOU DON'T KNOW TILL YOU TRY. WHAT IS HE SEEKING A MASS GOVERNMENT BUYOUT OF OUR ORIGIONAL TERRITORY? WILL NON-INDIANS BE ALLOWED TO STAY IF THEY PAY THIER RENT? I WOULD HATE TO SEE THE HARDSHIP THAT WAS PUT ON THE INDIANS, BE PUT ON SOMEONE ELSE. WE WOULD BE NO BETTER THAN THOSE WHO DID IT TO US. THE LAND IS HERE SO THAT WE MAY LIVE, ALL OF US. WOULD I LIKE THE GOV TO RETURN ANCESTORAL HOME LANDS, YES. THERE IS A RIGHT WAY AND A WRONG WAY TO DO THESE THINGS. I AM A PROUD LAKOTA. AM AM ALSO A PROUD AMERICAN, EVEN THOUGH WE HAVE TO PUT WITH RACISM BIGOTRY AND WHAT HAVE YOU FROM FELLOW AMERICANS. IT WILL GET BETTER SOMEDAY. WHAT WILL BRING ABOUT THE CHANGE? I DON'T KNOW,ALEINS, DIVINE INTERVENTION, NATURAL DISASTER. I BELIEVE AS AN AMERICAN WE SHOULD BE THE LEADERS IN RACE RELATIONS, ARE WE NOT THE MELTING POT? OTHER COUNTRIES SHOULD BE LOOKING AT US, AND BE USING US AS AN EXAMPLE OF FAIRNESS, LOVE, AND GENEROSITY. INSTEAD THE WORLD SEE'S US AS GREEDY AMERICANS. WHY DON'T WE CHANGE THIS. WHY DON'T WE BUCK UP AND ADMIT TO OUR MISTAKES. HOW CAN WE ASK OTHER NATIONS TO BE JUST, WHEN WE OURSELVES CANNOT BE. CAN THE LAKOTAS SURVIVE ON THIER OWN? SURE WE'VE ONLY BEEN DOING IT SINCE THE BEGINING OF TIME, AND WE WILL BE HERE WHEN TIME ENDS. WHEN EVEN THE GREATEST NATION IN THE WORLD TRIED TO ANNILATE US WE SURVIVED. AS NATIVE AMERICANS/LAKOTAS WE MUST PRACTICE FORGIVENESS, IGNORANT NON-INDIANS, AND ASSIMILATED INDIANS SAY FORGET THE PAST. NEVER FORGET THE PAST, FORGIVE THE PAST. A QUICK STORY ON FORGIVENESS. WHAT DO ALL PEOPLE HATE MOST IN THE WORLD...THE THIEF IN THE NIGHT-RIGHT. WELL ANYWAY THE THIEF IN THE NIGHT DECIDED HE WANTED TO TAKE FROM MY WIFES CAR ONE NIGHT. I WAS PISSED. LOW AND BEHOLD THE THIEF CAME BACK A SECOND TIME THOUGH THIS TIME MY MOTHER IN LAW SAW THE PERPETRATOR. I WAS ALL PSYCHED UP THEN. I WAS GOING TO BEAT SOME ASS, AND AS I WAS LEAVING THE HOUSE, MY WIFE ASKED ME WHERE I WAS GOING, I TOLD HER I WAS GOING TO GO CATCH THE PERPITRATOR. SHE LOOKED AT ME AND SAID DON'T, I HAVE ALREADY FORGIVIN HIM. AND AS MUCH AS I WANTED TO DESTROY, I COULD NOT, BECAUSE THIS WOMAN WHO HAD HER PROPERTY STOLEN FELT NO HOSTILITY TO THE ONE WHO STOLE FROM HER, INSIDE SHE HAD FORGIVIN HIM.. AND IF SHE WAS NOT MAD, HOW AM I MYSELF ALLOWED TO BE SO? RE:TO ALL NATIVES-WATCH OUT! THEY ARE BEHIND YOU! NO WAIT! THEY ARE IN FRONT OF YOU! NO WAIT! OVER THERE! LOL "
Actors wrote on Dec 22, 2007 11:51 PM:
" Russell Means is merely a bad actor who had to create a new roll for himself since his acting career is in the dumper. Lets all wish Mr Means Happy Holidays and forget this tripe. "
Scorpion and Toad wrote on Dec 22, 2007 11:49 PM:
" Brothers and Sisters have you all forgotten the story of the Scorpion and the Toad???? A Toad sat on the side of a swollen river. Along came a Scorpion. "Toad", said Scorpion, "Give me a ride across the river on your back and I shall show you a beautiful bank on which you will find many good things to eat and many warm spots to sun yourself". Toad replied, "I will not give you a ride Scorpion, you will sting me and I shall die". "I won't sting you Toad, if I did you would die and I shall drown in the river". Seeing the Scorpions point, Toad agrees to give him a ride across the river on his back. As they approach the far bank of the river, Scorpion STINGS Toad in the back and jumps to the safety of the shore. Bewildered, Toad struggles to keep his head above water as the poison moves through his body. "Why have you stung me Scorpion? I carried you safety on my back". To which Scorpion smiled as Toad slipped away, "I am Scorpion". Russel Means is that Scorpion. He makes empty promises, poisons our minds with hate, steals our money, and then slips away leaving us to drown. How many times must we go through this with him before our people learn. "
AJ Hartje wrote on Dec 22, 2007 11:45 PM:
" JB: Make no mistake, it isn't coincidence that we have people from other states rooting for this. I know from some of my Native American friends what troublemakers these "East Coast Indians" are, and how they guilt some of our best and brightest when they begin to get ahead. They generally have NO idea what life on a South Dakota reservation is like, and they live very well in their own states. "
Cilla wrote on Dec 22, 2007 11:38 PM:
" I am amazed that this group has decided to do something to make the government stand up and finally recognize the atrocities that were and are being held up by laws and forgotten treaties! I say, good for you!!! "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 22, 2007 11:21 PM:
" read these responses to this article. and look at the affects to the land, air, water since westward expansion. the Lakota never owned the land they were the caretakers. the way of life for the Lakota has been destoryed. AJ Hartje wrote on Dec 22, 2007 2:43 PM: " To CHUBBY NATIVE: Do you mean to say that since the land has been "stripped" and "polluted" that the Lakota couldn't capitalize on it if they DID own it? I can't help but at least partially believe that having such an attitude is why there still manages to be such a divide among the races to this day. I would expect my people to be able to figure out a use for such land, and not as a dumpground or salvage yard. I think we're all too quick to sell the human race short when it comes to resourcefulness. " "
FurrowedBrow wrote on Dec 22, 2007 9:45 PM:
" I have read a great deal on this site and many others this past week.I at times have been elated and other times sad. I have been moved to fight for the Lakota even should it cost my life.Now all that is left is this.I want to hear it from the tribe.Not to discount Means but I would feel more at ease to know this is thier will. I am not Lakota,I am however in part undocumented unnamed Cherokee. My spirit is Indian. I do worry about the effects on Indian and White and on and on. There will be good and bad both ways.If this be real people will be hurt,some will die. If this is a stunt then those who were proposed representatives should be taken care of Indian style. I wait for confirmation from The Tribe The Council.Should it come I will do what I am moved to do.Should it not come I fear many will lose what was the last of thier hope over someones self indulgence. "
Jacqueline wrote on Dec 22, 2007 9:31 PM:
" Justice for the Lakota and all Native Nations! The country was founded on genocide and stolen land, and it's time to pay. While realizing that we can never pay for what all that was taken from the rightful inhabitants of the land, the least we can do is stop denying the soul-ripping injustice that was done. "
Stephen E.W. Savage wrote on Dec 22, 2007 6:53 PM:
" To find out more about Russel Means, Please google yellow thunder camp and read all about the former A.I.M. activist known as Russel Means. Thank you, Stephen E.W. Savage A.K.A. Steve Pipkin "
Human oxymorons wrote on Dec 22, 2007 6:51 PM:
" Funny how the anti-welfare crowd is the same people who support the giant fight in the middle east to create a welfare state!A bigger welfare state than any white trash or rez dog could ever conceive.All the native haters/give back the $$ people really need to go on the hill.Go on vision quest and find out who you are and what your path in life is. "
canku waste win wrote on Dec 22, 2007 6:33 PM:
" Who does Russell think he is? My grandpa didn't fight for this country for nothing. He was a proud veteran of the ww2. He did the infamous march of death, he was a pow. Yet he still fought hard for this country, for our freedom. He didn't lose his fingers so Russell could be acting a fool. Russell is just a hollywood indian who loves seeing his name in headlines. I don't care what he has planned, I am OST member who is also an American Citizen. I work hard, I pay my taxes, I pay all my own bills, and I surely don't need Russell coming in ruining my future over his hairbrain ideas. Let him and his three idiotic followers go start their nation somewhere else. We Oglalas all ready have enough problems without this so called leader adding to them. Send him to some deserted island where he can believe he is the grand pumba or whatever he thinks he is. I DON"T SUPPORT RUSSELL, I NEVER DID AND I NEVER WILL> Just cause he has a wealthy woman to take care of him doesn't mean he can play with my life or the lives of other non russell loving people. He needs to take himself back down to az or nm or whatever he was at. "
Damail wrote on Dec 22, 2007 5:52 PM:
" The following points need to be stressed again and again. These few "activists" speak for themselves. Nobody else. And certainly not everybody from Pine Ridge Rez. Russell and the rest of these yahoos aren't elected to any council. So saying that "the Lakota Indians" are seceding is innacurate. Additional note: Russell Means fully supported Ward Churchill when called the 9/11 victims "little Eichmanns". His credibility is zilch. "
R. Adkins wrote on Dec 22, 2007 4:35 PM:
" Bravo Lakota! Very brave and very righteous! Best wishes to all in the nation from your friends in Georgia. "
Joseph Budd wrote on Dec 22, 2007 3:28 PM:
" Interesting to see people, from other states, wanting to dictate to us, how to run our own affairs. After all, didn't New York have tribes, and weren't tribes pushed west, by settlement? I have a feeling, this is yet another grandstanding, hot air topic from Means, hopefully he won't get a chance to destroy the land, like he did with the Yellow Thunder Campground. "
AJ Hartje wrote on Dec 22, 2007 2:43 PM:
" To CHUBBY NATIVE: Do you mean to say that since the land has been "stripped" and "polluted" that the Lakota couldn't capitalize on it if they DID own it? I can't help but at least partially believe that having such an attitude is why there still manages to be such a divide among the races to this day. I would expect my people to be able to figure out a use for such land, and not as a dumpground or salvage yard. I think we're all too quick to sell the human race short when it comes to resourcefulness. "
With all due respect wrote on Dec 22, 2007 2:04 PM:
" Russell Means and the AIM have not changed since the the so called movement was formed. Russell Means and all the other agitators in our great country all have the same opportunities to do something positive and make something of themselves. Why doesn't the AIM go to the various communities and help their people get organized and make a positive difference instead of always complaining about what you are owed etc, etc. Nothing in life is perfect get over it and get on with making a difference in your local and state communities. As I recall, there was recently an article about a Lakota Nation soldier (Lady) who retired from the US ARMY with great accomplishments to her credit. It seems to me that Russell is no leader let alone a warrior; rather he is a plain and simple activist who has worn out his welcome. God bless the Lakota Nation and the USA. "
college girl wrote on Dec 22, 2007 1:56 PM:
" What he should do instead is voluteer to help the childern and there education instead of doing this other stuff and making a fool of them selves and try to get the alcohol off of the rez and help out in housing and try to fix up the rez this iis all i have to say!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "
Yep... wrote on Dec 22, 2007 1:56 PM:
" Next month no one will remember this article, but we will all still be filled with hate. It's sure nice that Russel can come around every few years to steel some more of the Tribes money and plant a few more seeds of hate. Who knows, with him coming around, we all just might learn to accept each other. We might even learn to like each other, but that would take some effort and we all know it's just plain easier to hate. Liking each other and getting along like adults, what a novel idea. "
Dale wrote on Dec 22, 2007 1:39 PM:
" Who did the Lakota steal the land from first? Maybe all this is the result of bad karma for them stealing it first...and they'll escape poverty as a people when they, as a people, accept responsibility for stealing it in the first place from the tribes before them. "
college girl wrote on Dec 22, 2007 1:39 PM:
" What he should do instead is help the childern and there education instead of doing this other stuff and making a fool of them selves and try to get the alcohol off of the rez and help out in housing and try to fix up the rez this iis all i have to say!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "
llamawalker born tomarrow wrote on Dec 22, 2007 1:34 PM:
" Give thanks for freedom, may liberty expand her wings Give respect to our mother and all the children hope,love, spiritual nourishment Be patient with the ignorant of love. Share your positive vision the universe is singing thru me. i am an incantation, stirring revrence and awe into the eyes and ears working all simple miracles and healings. icome among you to serve and grow wise. More will come grater than I i am reponsible for cleansing the heart of jealosy anger hatredand greed. i need only to be feed from the tops of grasses i hold the eagle claws in my hands my wife hugs the wings with motherly strength My friend releases the stiches from the eagles eyes With compassion she sees us knowing we restored her vision May i release from blindness those who would judge or hate. you remember me I am responsible for getting love across I will not give up on you keep the positive vision alive "
Brothers and Sisters Stop..... wrote on Dec 22, 2007 1:13 PM:
" To all who support the Wild Proposal from Russel that we succeed from the US and stand on our own, I ask this. "Can any of you give me one example of where the reservation has stood on its own in the last 100 years, without the help of the US Government? I left the res for that reason alone. From the time I was a little girl until I was a grown woman I was told that the US Government and the White Man were to blame for all our problems, but when we received gifts and help from churches, charities, and other organizations not on the res I grew up and recognized the truth. The Gov, White Man, Republicans, Democrats, Police, or who ever else you want to blame, is not the problem. We are our own problem. Its time to grow up. I had no money, but found a way to go to college, get a job, find a good husband and father for my kids and move on in a positive way. We have taught our kids to be proud of our Native Heritage and to be PRODUCTIVE members in society. They see the cronic problems on the res and recognize that until the things will never improve there until the hatred and blaming stop. While I still occasionally run into someone who prejudges me because of my heritage, the majority of people I meet are NOT RACISTS. What is more painful is when my own Native People prejudge me, calling me a sell out because I left and made a positive difference in my life. The opportunities for a positive change are out there for people of ALL COLORS! Please everyone stop the fighting and do something positive with your lives. "
yay! wrote on Dec 22, 2007 12:12 PM:
" Great, goodbye, see you later. Oh dont come crying to America when your people are broke, and starving. Please stay within your borders, dont sneak out for beer, food, jobs ect. You want to be treated like a sovern nation? Act like one, start by taking care of your own people rather than expecting American tax payers to do it. Bye bye "
Are you kidding me wrote on Dec 22, 2007 12:04 PM:
" That is all fine if they want secede from the U.S. All I would ask in return is all the money paid to them by the taxpayers plus interest for all the tribes and then they can buy MY land in the hills. We have rolled over too long. Means can't win to head his own people and now he is tring to change the world view on the U.S. I think he has gone mad. No I know he is crazy. "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 22, 2007 11:17 AM:
" The land is already stripped and polluted. and us Lakota would'nt capitalize even if the land was giving back. "
reply: To all natives wrote on Dec 22, 2007 10:58 AM:
" what a silly man.... "
Things of the wrote on Dec 22, 2007 10:54 AM:
" The genocide of the Lakota is not a thing of the "past," it's a thing of the present. the death rate, the imprisonment rate, and the dire poverty are _systemic_. The only proof one needs of the depth of the racist, killer intent of present day. "America" is to look at the 80% unemployment rate of the Lakota TODAY. White people are still raping and "profiting" from the land their ancestors stole TODAY. If you want it to be a thing of the "past" GIVE IT BACK. _THEN_ it will be in the "past." The problem is that Europeans here refuse to see themselves as a group. They could be defined as the group that insists they are not a group, the group that believes they are all "individuals. You know, though, the Germans who followed Hitler were all "Individuals," too , just like you. The Germans who stole Jewish property and still profit from the genocide are still criminals. So are you. "
TO: RE: ALL NATIVES wrote on Dec 22, 2007 10:21 AM:
" Bad faith??? Yeah....If you call going to work every day and making a morgage payment every month bad faith! Let's hear about how YOUR people got this land? How much did your people pay for it? Oh....That's right...You just came across it and decided to call it yours...Soooooo....Let's analize this....Shall we? You paid nothing for this land...And my government and my taxes have been paying your people for over a hundred years, and i as an individual, have been working and buying my property, and you have the audasity to say bad faith??? Just what color is the sky in you world??? "
REALITY CHECK!!!!! READ THIS NOW!!! wrote on Dec 22, 2007 9:52 AM:
" Aren't you people forgetting something??? The white's can argue with the native's and visa versa til the cow's come home!!! Cold hard reality is this....There are country's RIGHT NOW (North Korea, Iraq, Afghanistan, Palistine, just to name a few) who don't give a damn about the white's, native's, latino's, asian's, or any other race in the United State's!!!! Their agenda is solely to wipe us out, regardless of the color of our skin, off the face of this earth!!! It is just a matter of time before we are attacked again, only next time with germ-warfare, or nuclear anilalation. If you forget the past....You are doomed to repeat it!!! It is closer than you think people!!!Banding together as a whole will do nothing to de-ter these radicals from their agenda, but fighting amongst ourselves only gives the terrorists more confidence in thinking we as a nation are split among our own citizens. Is it going to take a holocaust directed towards ALL United States citizens to end the racism between us? "
ustoo wrote on Dec 22, 2007 9:28 AM:
" The only true Native Americans are people that were born and raised on this land after it became America. This includes the Indians and it includes a myriad of others too. Some Indians that are claiming to be Native Americans want to be native to something else. Most Indian tribes have a rich and honorable heritage of which they should be proud but, so do many other people that live here. The ancestors of most of the people in America had nothing to do with broken treaties or what went on in this land before it was America and perhaps the Indians that were displaced should have been compensated better but, America does not continue to owe in perpetuity. The Ancestors of many people Caucasian, Indian or otherwise were run out of their homeland or killed but, you don’t see them going back to the Kremlin, Berlin, Hanoi or wherever to get more compensation. The world is not always perceived as a fair place by some but it is always how you choose to perceive it. Russell needs a job. "
Maria Burch wrote on Dec 22, 2007 9:14 AM:
" I commed the Lakota for undertaking this step. If they do not look out for themselves, no one else will. We all know Natives have been exploited and are continue to be exploited. I live in NY state and my inlaws are of American Native ancestry. I totally support this stuggle. "
Spearfish wrote on Dec 22, 2007 9:08 AM:
" Look, the Lakota will never get their land back – this is a fact. Your people need to leave this is in the past and look to the future. If you don’t move on, in 20 years you will still be living in poverty as today. Acceptance is the key to future success in this situation. "
RE: TO: ALL NATIVES wrote on Dec 22, 2007 8:45 AM:
" Wow! You are clearly compensating for lack of something. Fact of the matter is, the land was taken from the Native Americans and thus you gained it in bad faith. No one is going to come charging onto your land to force you out - though that is how it was originally acquired years ago. It will be a matter of the courts. So "white boy" better get your checkbook out, it may cost you to keep your land! "
wanagi oyate ho wrote on Dec 22, 2007 8:40 AM:
" Russell's words are fresh and a breath of fresh air . Each one of us in SOuth Dakota and anywhere else in this country can voice our political opinion . I am so tired of hearing hang around the fort indians sell out and blow smoke up the people's behinds . The idea is like che guevaro and martin luther king or anyone that suffers from US manifest destiny it is horrible to see this still exists . The oldest form of desention is divede and concur . I expect to be treated bad by whites in South Dakota but fellow indians ( sell outs ) have always plagued tribes . We are coming upon the aniversery's of Wounded knee 1@2 and who sold out Spotted Tail , Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull . Hang around the forts current goons / IRA . You can in this country and state wear a swastika in your own home . You can in this country and state wear 7th calvary regalia and be lakota and wear it . You can wear blood ,sweat ,and tears of the people and their history . SOme of us where lakota before it was cool . Back in the day goons / eiska's made fun of people with two word last names and people who spoke our language . Sweats where hidden and you never seen eiska's . Today we have eiska sun dances and they speak the language . SO change has come . One thing about change its eminent . " A coyote or any predator would have it easier in captivity . When you live free there is a price . You are free to starve ,free to freeze . " The chioce is yours . You can be oyate , you can be hang around the fort . "
Leon Ewert wrote on Dec 22, 2007 8:38 AM:
" I see everything just keeps going around and around in this argument!!! I would say this. The US Government has treated all Native American people with a heavy hand and very poorly, however if they had not put the Western Native American tribes on reservations and offered some protection and subsistence no matter how bad it was, I would venture to say that most of the tribes would have been wiped out and there would be no Lakota or any other Culture left. "
Obsidiana wrote on Dec 22, 2007 8:23 AM:
" Well if it works for him then fine. But I would never do something like that. Even though the government opressed my people I was still born in this country. I am only half Native but I am still a US citizen and I wouldn't renounce that. Besides what happened in the past should stay there. The more we as Native people linger in the past we deny the future to our young people I think. I don't understand his reasoning behind this because I am not sure how they are going to be able to live with no money or means of support. But best of luck to them with this. "
TO: ALL NATIVES wrote on Dec 22, 2007 8:13 AM:
" You all talk a good talk....Now let's see you walk the walk!!! Talk is CHEAP!!! ACTION SPEAKS LOUDER THAN WORDS!!!You think YOU and YOUR leader can break away from MY government and take MY land away from ME??? Alright then....I will be waiting....Bring it on o "foolish" ones!!! I am only too PREPARED and STEADFAST to fight to the death to protect "MY" family and "MY" land!!! If "YOU" want peace...."YOU" best ought to pass this "WHITE BOY" by!!! "
AJ Hartje wrote on Dec 22, 2007 8:09 AM:
" Considering that East Timor no longer exists, I wonder whose mailbox that statement will end up in. I assume other "interested" countries include British Honduras, Siam, Persia, Durk-Durkistan and Narnia? "
U 4 Who wrote on Dec 22, 2007 8:06 AM:
" Maybe we can do the same thing here in Virginia. Thanks Russell Means. "
AJ Hartje wrote on Dec 22, 2007 7:52 AM:
" It's fairly evident here that race hustlers like Russell Means still have a willing populace of the weak-of-mind begging to be led - rather than lead - regardless of the moral depravity and possible insanity of the leader. This is yet another self-aggrandizing step taken by Means which I'm sure will translate into dollar signs. Ironically, it's the sedentary nature of his dupes that guarantees this measure's ultimate failure, as none of them will do more than offer a half-raised fist in support of it. "
che wrote on Dec 22, 2007 7:22 AM:
" Does this mean Whiteclay will be cut off from resuppling the fuel of Pine ridge "
Watch the action and the words wrote on Dec 22, 2007 4:48 AM:
" If you scan thru the comments below, you will see that not even one person who attacks Means has the courage to contradict what he actually said, they can only name call like hateful school bullies on a rotten playground. "
IKTOMI wrote on Dec 22, 2007 4:41 AM:
" IF IGNORANCE IS A VIRTUE, YOU BLIND ME WITH YOURS. MOST HISTORY IS NOT WRITTEN. YOU HAVE TO SEEK NKOWLEDGE, IT DOES NOT SEEK YOU. YOU BOTH PROVE MY POINT. I BELIEVE YOUR OLDEST HISTORY BOOK TALKS OF A TALKING SNAKE, A BOAT THAT WAS ABLE TO HOLD ALL THE ANIMALS ON EARTH, AND EVERYONE WAS ABLE TO SEE ANGELS. THOSE WHO NOT NOT LEARN FROM HISTORY ARE BOUND TO REPEAT IT. "
Chicano wrote on Dec 22, 2007 4:39 AM:
" I think it goes without saying that I am no fan of the US. It's simple enough, and any Lakota can judge what I am saying based on their own experience. Lakota men’s life expectancy on the rez doesn’t just “happen” to be 44 years –the lowest on Earth. Lakota teen suicide rates don’t just “happen” to be 150% of the norm in the US. The rate of 80% Lakota unemployment and the extremities of Lakota poverty don’t just “happen” to be the case. These are a direct result of being conquered and being kept in subjugated state by an enemy people who promised and intended to wipe them off the face of the Earth – just as the Nazis intended to wipe the Jews off the face of the Earth. The rez is white America’s Warsaw ghetto and the Lakotas are among the Jews. In fact Hitler openly admired the extermination of the Indians, and the reservation system, and consciously took them as models. This is where and how it is. What Russell Means and the Lakota freedom Delegation are saying is true, and telling the truth makes them legitimate leaders. Recognizing the truth is up to each. Thank you for considering this. "
Spidee the Dutchman wrote on Dec 22, 2007 2:53 AM:
" Having spent over ten years in South Dakota, Rapid City, to be precise, I was constantly horrified at how much raw, unbridled hatred was continuously directed at the Native people of this state by most (white) non-Natives. Although I myself am "part Indian" - I can easily pass for white - and in the private company of too many whites on too many occasions I have heard the absolute worst in terms of racial tirades towards the state's Native population that far surpassed even the terrible anti-black sentiment I had to listen to years ago when I visited pre-aparteid South Africa. That the remnant numbers of America's Native peoples have been forcibly placed on reservations simply tells the Native that he or she is infinitely less than the rest of America; that they have been damned to places such as Pine Ridge for life; that they are much more acceptable when they are totally invisible and that this society has indeed no other locations for them or their children. Away from the confines of the reservation system the Native person's pathway to the American Dream is relentlessly obstructed by not only the vast public hatred his kind, but by the overwhelming cruelty of an historically imbedded institutional racism that assumes its most lethal forms in the rampant discrimination in the areas of employment and housing. And throughout this horrific social scenario that is replayed day in and day out here in South Dakota, white denial that such situations exist merely ensures that narcissistic idealogues like Mr. Means will always benefit greatly from having the final word on "race relations" in the Northern Plains. "
Norman G Smith wrote on Dec 22, 2007 2:30 AM:
" Way to Go LAKOTA !!! Count me in. Get my passport and drivers licence ready please. I hope you set up a Venezuelan Embassy the size of the US Embassy in Baghdad. That will give the warmongers Bush/Cheney a wake up call. I hope all the American Natives do this all over the country. This is AWESOME NEWS !! You guys may have got ripped of by the white man but your courage is still intact. "
Father of federal farm subsidies wrote on Dec 22, 2007 12:41 AM:
" Please remind me that I will still get my federal farm subsidies even though I may not farm. I love all that free money to keep my brand new tractors and pickups up-to-date. Whoa is me, because I bitch and moan all the while stuffing my pockets in the billions with the welfare system of federal farm subsidies in the United States. "
Eeeeessaaaa! wrote on Dec 22, 2007 12:18 AM:
" I do not want this to happen. Where will we get our benefits? "
RE: IKTOMI wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:30 PM:
" I am sure all you say is well documented in the history books...right? I bet people were being punished for causing global warming with their camp fires. Pour another glass of wine while I go get the history book. "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:30 PM:
" Oglala El Wati wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:01 PM: " The IRA system is controlled by the federal gov 't and we were one of the first sovereign nations in the world to be subjected into signing a treaty, a treaty that allows the federal gov't to control our land, our resources, our education, our language, our food, etc. and our lives as Lakota people. Crazy Horse was free when he was killed, his own people conspsired to have him killed because he remained free. he would rather die than obey one whiteman rule/law. The Oceti Sakowin of the Lakota/Nakota/Dakota people still retain thier own government but it is still in dormant because even our own people have attempted and are still attempting to manipulate it. It is going to be coming back and the time is now. Our past elders have said it is time to bring it back but do not allow those of your own who want to misuse it for their own gain. Garnier is a victim of this whole scheme. Iraq was allowed to vote for a treaty to allow those people to become what they call a democratic system, we Lakota know that that is baloney !!!! The feds will eventually control Iraqs land, resources, etc just as other countries like Cuba, Mexico,Germany, Russia, Japan, etc. Our own people do not understand this and so they support the laws that is going put Garnier away. Hecetu welo. " "
Wow what a freakin trip Rapid City and wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:07 PM:
" The rest of South Dakota is...just think you all have internalized agression and hate for each other and it comes out this way it is true what they say about South Dakota kinda the North of the South....yikes I won't visit that place again. Might get hung in a tree! Maybe you all should have carried on the vision of the late Governor who had vision, because the fact is the INDIANS were there first and they will be there last. Remember the mainstrean famlies have one point two kids whatever the heck that means, and people of color have four point...kids...lol so pretty soon people of color will out number the rest of the world it's a matter of time. But really no one single person saidf anything good that's preety darn sad! somewhere in the US where it's not that badf.. "
IKTOMI wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:04 PM:
" ONE QUICK ONE BEFORE I GIVE THIS MY FULL ATTENTIONS AND VOICE. RE 1776. THE SIOUX WERE "AROUSED" FROM THE WIND CAVE AROUND 2000 YEARS AGO. THE PEOPLE TOOK SHELTER IN THE "WIND CAVE" WHEN THE EARTH LAST CLEANSED HERSELF. THIS WAS A TIME WHEN THE EARTH SHOOK AND THE SKYS DARKENED. THIS CAME ABOUT FROM THE ANGER OF MOTHER EARTH AT HER CARETAKERS "US". WE WERE ALL DOING "BAD" THINGS, BOTH HERE AND ABROAD. WE SAW THE WOLF WAS ABLE TO SURVIVE AGAIN ON THE LAND AND SO THE PEOPLE EMERGED FROM THE CAVE. I BELIEVE THIS PREDATES 1776 BY SOME 1776 YEARS. I AM SURPRISED SOMEONE SO WELL VERSED IN HISTORY DID NOT KNOW THIS. "
Gimme A Break wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:56 PM:
" OK, have you people seriously thought this through? As a truly "sovereign" nation how would the reservations survive? They have NO industry. Industry=jobs=economy=existance. There will ne no more WIC, no more EBT, no more free health care, no more police (not that they do anything anyway), no more schools and on top of that we will have a US border patrol on the outskirts of the reservation so nobody could get out if they wanted too. What we would have is small children dying from malnutrition, elders freezing to death in the winter time, masses of uneducated people walking around murdering and pillaging, all just because Russel Means wants publicity? Are you really willing to risk what you have to live a life like I have described? Russel Means has enough money he could jump ship to Mexico or Canada when it got bad leaving the rest to sort everything out for ourselves just like he has done EVERYTIME he stirs up trouble. Can somebody here tell me the last time Russel Means actually solved a problem? And who would you elect for govt? Or would it be a communist govt where 25000 people could share one loaf of bread? We couldnt have any competant leaders as a whole, we cant even manage to have a competant council/president as things are now. Please dont listen to these radicals. Russ Means stands to make a boatload of money off this scandal and we the people can only lose everything. "
fullblood wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:36 PM:
" Russell Means is nearing the end of his poor pathetic life and he wants to go out with a bang. Obviously due to the number of negative posts here, he is getting what he wants. As far as me and my family go, we will continue to live our lives off the reservation, I will continue to work my job and my children will get a good education. I see alot of closed minded arrogant people here, and that is sad. I've never gotten a check from the government. Everything I have is bought and paid for by me, and I do experience the racism that is wide open here in South Dakota, but you gotta look before you judge. Look at who its coming from. "
Dave wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:14 PM:
" History is the story of one nation losing land to another, that's just history... If we're going to get technical, the Lakota took land from the native peoples before them, and those took it from the natives before them, etc. Just because a group has spread from across an ocean and have lighter skin doesn't mean they can't do the same. The white people came in and claimed the land and settled it, just like the Lakota came in and claimed the land and settled it before them in a brutal way - killing or evicting all the Cheyenne. That's history. Nobody is crying about the Cheyenne's loss... "
Human Rights above all else wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:09 PM:
" to "I am Native American", are you advocating for the physical genocide of the Lakota? It appears to be just that. We are already dwindling in the light of genocidal policy and soon (especially if people like Russ M don't speak out) we will be as "Chicano" states (paraphrase) we will be trying to fight for our right as Lakota English Speakers. No one will ever know there was an Oglala Lakota of the Tetuwan Oyate of the Oceti Sakowin. Now a "Native American" wants to kill his own people off using Physical Genocide. WOW!!!! "
Rocky wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:05 PM:
" what a joke. okay, let them have it. then turn off the lights. if they want to be a sovereign nation, they aren't entitled to U.S. infrastructure, electricity, or services. see how long their little commune lasts once the welfare checks stop coming and the INS seals off their borders and demands passports from everyone coming or going. these clowns would turn South Dakota into another Gaza... no economy, no money, no trade, completely reliant on international charity for their miserable existence. and this is their idea of a good thing? sheesh... "
Gary wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:44 PM:
" To the victor go the spoils. "
Human Rights and Justice wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:44 PM:
" As a people we are lost and stumbling around in the dark. a good example will be the enormous support for the invasion and occupation (illegally done according to scholars, politicians, the U.N. and anyone with a brain)of the nation of Iraq and the continous support for military excursions throughout the world in the name of freedom and democracy. This support is doled out by sending our children to fight in the U.S. Military for such inhumane antics. It has gotten to a point were it is honorable to wear a U.S. uniform, kill for the U.S. and the multi corporations, bring back the trauma and spread it through the communities through alcohol and drug abuse as well as abandonment of the children while ignoring the bootlegger, drug dealer, child molester and rapist next door. In the Lakota way of being a Akicita (a protector) you stood by your family first and seen to it that no harm was brought there way, now the Akicita participates in the destruction being brought about on there families and lo and behold honor is bestowed upon them. I must say people like Russ Means hold flashlights in the darkness, yet like street bums alot of people on this board are grasping at him in the dark trying to subdue him. Go Russ Go, my family supports you!!! "
Hello people! wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:43 PM:
" You have to admit Russel Means knows how to get attention and he sure is able to get you sod-busters' blood to boil. Russel Means is an actor and it was probably his time to get the media's attention as he knows how. A mere suggestion, if some of you want to know how to divert Russel Means' attention is to help get him a movie part, in fact several movie parts. Russel will be so busy with his acting career that he wouldn't have much time for anything else. So all you sod-busters out there that are fixing to hang Russel Means. Just sit back and think as Russel Means thinks. He needs some acting jobs like right now. So all of you sod-busters out there get ahold of your contacts in the movie industry and put in a plug for Russel Means, as the guy can act. He is a natural at it. Or how about some of you sod-busters helping to get funding for a Russel Means movie with Russel Means acting as himself. Oh that would be a good one for sure. You don't have to thank me at all for this, as I will throw that one in for free. Now you know the rest of the story. Take care. "
Re: Ryan wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:32 PM:
" Attn: Ryan, you are about as funny as George W. Bush being the President of the United States! At one time I felt disgust for what George W. Bush would say or do as President, now I just feel sorry for him for his execution of the duties of the President. And Ryan, I do not want to put you in the category of ridicule that George W. Bush gets for his missteps, but Ryan I have to admit that you are a silly one for sure. Please do some reading on the historical aspects of Treaties and Indian Law, otherwise, Ryan, you appear like a fool and please don't let yourself be categorized as hilarious as George W. Bush as the President of the United States. Thanks for your comments. "
Attention: Willing to pay pennies on the acre wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:12 PM:
" I need your land, I am willing to pay pennies on the acre as my operation needs expansion. And if you are not willing to sell, I will need those lands anyway, and I will decide how much I will pay for those lands. Please spread the word. "
Re: Mr. Supreme Commander wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:06 PM:
" It is costing alot of money already isn't it? Won't hurt to try an alternative. "
getupgetahead wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:04 PM:
" It looks like Dennis Banks must have owned the grey matter that gave substance to the American Indian Movement because Russell Means appears to be a bitter, old, self promoting old man that has put his own agenda ahead of the Lakota. "
Re: ducheneaux wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:02 PM:
" You are not able to speak as being Lakota because you are not walking the talk. When has a Ducheneaux actually spoken up for the Lakota people? My understanding is the outside cattle money that comes into selected few range unit lease holders on the Reservation. You do not want the White man to take his cattle to other areas as that would take money out of your pockets from the outside cattle operations. So, please, Ducheneaux, do not speak as though you are a true Lakota! "
Human Rights and Enlightenment wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:56 PM:
" I am Oglala Lakota and harbor no ill will toward the non-Lakota. I have Caucasian friends and in fact on behaves more like a Lakota than most "Lakota" that I know. If it were possible (dreaming here) we could have political representation from all places on the planes, even if dual citizenship is needed. I have no problem establishing a nation of peace along side the non-Lakota and with the non-Lakota, I envision this nation to be a beacon of peace to the world and to teach the America we know today how to achieve this standard. "
Human Rigths to all wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:51 PM:
" Group lets not forget before there are comments made to pull technology, medicine and foods (percieved assistance) from the Lakota, that the world you live in was and is formed through the acquisition of resources legal and illegal from indigenous groups around the world. A good example is Oil, tribes (specifically the Seneca), in what is now known as Pennsylvania were using oil dug from wells and taken from natural seepage to heating, lighting and other uses. The extraction process of boring into the ground was learned from the Indigenous people. Another one is rubber or latex, where would the world be without this handy piece of Tech. In fact the vulcanization process used today on a massive scale is the same that was used 3,000 years ago. "
J.M. wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:44 PM:
" I have one thing to say about this... GET OVER IT, it happened a long time ago!!! GET OVER IT AND GET ON WITH YOUR LIFE!!! "
Barney Stubble wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:43 PM:
" Ha-ha, you think money is going to be a problem? Why do you think they have representatives in Venezuela on the day they declare indipendence. Guess the good 'ol days when the US was the center of the world are over, bub. Get used to it. "
Metis Woman wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:40 PM:
" I hope the Lakota can regain control of their land and their lives. I think the USA will act as if they have some rights in this, but once the Treaty is rejected like this, the USA really has no rights in Lakota Country. If the USA will negotiate, perhaps the Lakota will give them some rights, perhaps not. Remember, ownership is a european concept, before the white man came, the land and the people were one. ONE, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. "
Re: My opinion wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:39 PM:
" You bring up a point on people who cut to the front of the line at a movie. Your example was Russel Means doing that 25 years ago. I'll give you examples of White people doing that very same thing consistently. The way I look at it is it is first come first serve, and with America's past of not serving Blacks or Indians at restaurants or places of public accomodation, it may be very difficult for Caucasians to fathom the idea that everyone is to be treated equally. And with Russel Means, he is out to make a point as he is sure aware of publicity and rightly knows how to get it. That does tick White people off because of his arrogance. So my friends, I stand with all of you, if we are to make a difference in our respect for each other we need to transcend that respect outside of Rapid Replies and into real life, toward each other. Thanks. "
Human Rights apply to all wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:38 PM:
" I must say I am Oglala Lakota of the Tetuwan Oyate a band of the Oceti Sakowin. The Oceti Sakowin speak 3 dialects of speech; the L the N and the D. The Tetunwan as of this writing are seated in the west of the great circle (Oceti Sakowin, a confederation if you will), which is a place of honor in this circle, we are the children and offspring of the Mdewakanton (people know them as the shakopee indians near Minniapolis, but they are also in other areas). We have came to believe that we are rosebud sioux, pine ridge sioux cheyenne river sioux etc... and that each of these federal reserves are sovreign, although we try we are not, however the Oceti Sakowin is, this predates treaties, the u.s. and especially the state of SD. The U.S. and SD are laying on top of the Oceti Sakowin. People like Russ Means know this and choose to make decisions on this reality rather than the facade most "sioux" choose to medicate themselves with. Go Russell Go? My family supports this action, it is legal, moral, ethical, needed and the right thing to do!!! "
Mr. Supreme Commander wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:35 PM:
" Hmmmmmmmm, let me think about this..... nope, I don't think it's going to work out. Just gunna cost alot of money. "
Human Right to exist in a peaceful manner wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:27 PM:
" This is a great forum however if this were held in a community on a reservation you will have about 2 individuals from this board show up and none will have original ideas or answers to the problems that plague the Lakota, Dakota and Nakota. Most will just wine about the Federal Government not living up to it's promises and claiming there is a treaty but not do a damn thing about it but sit home and watch Directv. Go Russ go, you have me and my families support! "
The U.S. knew who the occupiers of the lands were wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:26 PM:
" The United States of America knew who the righful occupiers of the lands were when they started to negotiate the Treaties with all the individual Tribes that occupied the vast array of lands in present day United States. The correct word whether it was negotiate or swindle, cheat, lie, steal, you descendants of the immigrants that arrived through Ellis Island are here because of those Treaties with the Tribes. And it is historical fact that the United States wrote those Treaties to benefit the United States through actions of manipulation, coercion, theft. And the correct amount of male Tribal members were not accumulated to authorize or approve those Treaties with the United States. We must understand that the Tribes were not fluent in English and thus impaired in the language barriers which utilized interpreters who were hired by the United States to error on the side of the United States in those negotiations. What the Tribes thought were the understandings in the Treaties were not necessarily what was drawn into them by the United States. So, my friends, let's be more understanding of our beginnings and how matters transpired here in America. It is not as easy as we thought it was. There is a tremendous amount of history to how each of us is allowed to sit on the land we now call home. Let's be more cautious in our assertions of knowing the truth, because that truth may not be what we were anticipating. Thank you. "
llamawalker wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:15 PM:
" Greetings my brothers and sisters of the Lakota tribe , I give you respect and honour. Precieve the nature of my soul without seeing my skin tone ,sense the tone of my spirit my heart is open to the wisdom to come from the elders may I humbly serve the needs and wants of life, wash the invalid and feed the sick and cloth the naked among you, with the work of my hands I desire to bless the Lakota , with the wool i have laboured over in this nature. With my Hours I have worked in prayer to purify my gift of yarn Feel what I have dyed beautiful red for you I have labour without price, woven into gifts of warmth and beauty. Let me be welcome among you for the creator has blessed me with the gift of healing predjiduce. In the fires of adversity i Journey to see my beloved Lakota people, i too have been smitten with hate on my cheeks, and suffered because of the cruel lies of the America. forgive me If I fear you in your anger, i summon the courage to lift you up when you are feeble and to pour my every possesion to offer your children a beautiful hope in the future. I did not know that the Lakota's difficulty. I want to offer my prayers of surrender let me be an insturment of healing.I am a"white" of welsh ansestors. "
re: Alls fair in love and war wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:13 PM:
" Amen!! Right on! I'm WHITE and proud of it! "
My Opinion wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:08 PM:
" Let them go. And while were at it take away their United States money, clothes, cars, pickups, homes, phones, cell phones, computers, and on and on. If they want out good riddance. But make sure they cannot have it both ways. I still haven't forgotten the arrogant way Means slugged his way to the front of a popcorn line at the theater in RC twenty five years ago. "
I couldn't tell wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:20 PM:
" I couldn't tell if that man was White, all I could tell was that he was hungry, I couldn't tell if that man was White, all I could see was he could cry, I couldn't tell if that man was White, all I could see was someone dying. I wish I could tell if that man was White, so I could turn my back on him as if not caring. I couldn't tell. "
Camo40 wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:15 PM:
" Can anyone spare some change to help a brother out? "
Re: Still my neighbor wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:05 PM:
" My White neighbor and his family have been our friends for a very long time. I still love them no matter how uneducated they are and I look at that as my work to teach this heathen White family to understand and appreciate others because it is not that White family's fault that they were raised in such barbaric conditions. Happy Holidays to everyone. I am so glad I am one of the chosen ones to help in saving some of these White families from the darkness of hell. "
c wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:03 PM:
" Hey, i'm an 18 yr old white girl and i think you all need to STOP IT! This world is has enough problems and pain going on. If we want to make things right we need to stand together. we all vote and fight for this country, whether your in a tribe, live in bad neighbor hood, of the burbs. you may think that i don't know what i'm talking about because i'm so young or because i'm white. but i live in this world, too. and because of how messed up things are, i'm scared to have kids and bring them into this world. you guys are trying to start a war in our country? don't you see how other countries are sufforing and killing eachother. do you want roadside bombs and women getting raped and nobody giving a dang? well, being so young i may as well kill myself now. but i won't let a bunch of arrogant, selfish people ruin my life. i don't know how old the rest of you are, but guessing that most you are grown ups, look what you doing. do you want your kids or grandchildren to grow up in this. so please then stop this stuff so we can rid of the starvation, poverty, and war that is already going on. "
Maybe we could appoint Russel Means as Secretary of Defense? wrote on Dec 21, 2007 5:57 PM:
" Just an idea, but maybe we could appoint Russel Means, Secretary of Defense, after all why not take a chance as look how much of a turmoil we are in in Iraq. Mr. Means, with his diplomatic skills, more than likely would be able to solve the Iraq dilemma with his new Secretary of Defense title. What the heck, why don't we give it a try? Nothing else seems to be working. Thank you. "
Evict all White people from these lands wrote on Dec 21, 2007 5:49 PM:
" I say evict all White people from these lands and send them back to where their ancestors came from. At least it would be far, far from here. Amen. "
Federal Trust Responsibility in exchange for vast quantities of land wrote on Dec 21, 2007 5:45 PM:
" The United States of America promised to honor its federal trust responsibility to Tribes and their members in those Treaties in exchange for vast quantities of lands from the Tribes. I think alot of us should become familiar with what those Treaties state and educate ourselves in that regard. Russel Means and the American Indian Movement are well versed in their rights as was evident in the 1970's. We need to listen and try to understand in order to come to some type of agreement. Thanks. "
Lysol wrote on Dec 21, 2007 5:39 PM:
" I have two questions: 1.) Can't we all just get along and respect eachother?...and 2.) Does anyone have a loaf of bread? "
Some of my best friends are White wrote on Dec 21, 2007 5:35 PM:
" Ryan, you should learn your history and understand what Russel Means is talking about. And Ryan, remember some of my best friends are Whites. "
Emperor Void wrote on Dec 21, 2007 4:50 PM:
" First off I will say I don't have many credentials to flaunt, in fact I don't really have a single one. I am part Cherokee, but so is so many others; however its is that ancestry that I cherish the most. It isn't the blood, but the spirit I feel. Since I was a child I looked at Natives today and felt mixed feelings. I didn't ever get the chance to grow up on any Reservation, nor did I ever get a chance to be close to Indian culture, my Dad did not teach me any of it, and my siblings are not nearly as interested in it as I am. The culture that should have been passed down to me wasn't. So I do what I can to love it. There has long been a disgust in me for what History books never revealed in High School. I made it a point to bring up what would not be spoken in History class. I feel Native Pride even though physically I don't much look it. I am discontent that what once was a proud and free people fell into darkness in many ways. I am discontent that stolen land, ALL of this stolen land has been ruined by the ignorant naive arrogant diseased ungrateful descendants of those who stole it. Yes I am angry. I am angry that the Native Nations that survived lost beautiful parts of their cultures and lands to people that don't respect Nature, the land and the rivers. I am angry that the U.S. has broken so many damn treaties. I am not a proud American. I am not proud of America. When I heard that the Lakota Nation was working to become a Sovereign Nation I rejoiced. So things will be different. As it sounds there is corruption on the Reservation. Is this not then a chance to restructure? Is this not a chance to be free? Is this not the chance to be a LAKOTA NATION that is recognized as its own Government and not under the thumb of the U.S.? I know well I am inviting harsh criticism, for many reasons, but I feel this could be a great thing. I do not know much of Russel Means, what type of character he holds himself to be, and perhaps it is selfish as some say. Perhaps it could be something more. Your all better off without the U.S. Government. So some of your don't get your checks. Whatever happened to self sustainability? Did some forget how to live without the whiteman's money, alcohol, drugs, and culture? What happened to the true Native way that used to live off the land? Can Indians not farm, create a self sustainable industry? Will some rather be fed then feed themselves? Even if this is some dumb ploy cooked up by some kook, is there not something of great value to take advantage of in this? I feel to stay under the thumb of the U.S. Government is to be a slave. Take back the culture you once had and be rid of this Government that has done nothing more then treat Indians like garbage. ~Void~ you can yell at me here EmperorVoid@yahoo.com "
Me wrote on Dec 21, 2007 4:41 PM:
" For those of you who do not know this man well enough, he like to go around stirring the pot, then moves on. Take this with a grain of salt. Hihanni waste! (have a good day!) "
Jeremy wrote on Dec 21, 2007 4:10 PM:
" Where is Lincoln when you need him? Honestly how does Means think he will fund an entire country without U.S. Financials? Seriously... What is going to be their main export? Cocaine? Sounds like an attempt to retire and move to the Bahamas Mr. Means. "
Afraid wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:59 PM:
" I'm not going to mention if I'm a Native person or a nonNative person, but I'll freely mention the content of this story makes me Afraid, we should all be Afraid. It is stated that this declaration is being sent to other countries and will be given to the United Nations. Please everyone, don't think for a minute that the United Nations is a kind group, there are forces in that body of nations that would love to disolve the USA as a government and be the one sole government over us all.. plus lump Mexico, the USA and Canada into one country. And these other countries, good grief,..well, the last time I checked most of these are out for our blood, they hate us all..whether we are First Nation individuals or White individuals. We all are told that there are "sleeper cells" on our shores already just waiting to attack and harm us in a major way. What will we do when they attack us, will we finally come together and stop our "in house", "in state" hatred?? There are so many wonderful Native Americans and Whites in this state, couldn't we form a militia of volunteers where racisim was FORBIDDEN and where we all could be on the alert and watching for terrorist activity,( not replace the National Guard Soldiers as they are wonderful), yet be citizens of one state and one group with a common goal? There is a blood thristy enemy out there, let's not have people born on this soil be each other's enemy!Please! "
PINE RIDGER wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:53 PM:
" NO Chicano! It is American Socialism that is the crux of our ills. It is Liberalism that has altered the Traditional State of the Traditional Mind and indoctrinated our People that we must accept *change* in order to progress. My Ancestors of old would put up a big fight if that were the case in their day. They would BAN people like Russ and his followers. It is TRADITIONAL PEOPLE who have the MOST TO LOSE to progressive thought! HO ECHE TU WELO! "
Jeremy wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:52 PM:
" My first thought was hey hey hey, tax payers would save. But then you realize that they are trying to take other properties that were stolen from them. So, they would probably settle on a humongous dollar amount, Means would pack up and live the rest of his life in the bahamas. Tax free if we renounce our US Citizenship? This is rediculous. Where is Lincoln when you need him? The south lost a lot of good men because of this very effort... So are we supposed to just call them "Natives" now? "
Ohhhh, The Ignorance.... wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:50 PM:
" Lets all blame the White Man. Let's all blame America. Chicano talks like he hates America, but he lives here and benefits from it. Can you say Hypocrate? Russel Means wants to break free from America, but cites the US Constitution numerous times. How can you HIDE behind the same Constitution you wish to separate yourself from??? Could it be Russel that this is just another one of your clever plans to take advantage of your own people? Am I the only Native with enough sense to read through Russel's real motive. Seems Russel only shows up ever few years, makes some wild accusations to gain media attention, and then walks away with our money. The definition of Insanity is "Making the same mistake over and over again, while expecting different results. Russel Means stands only for the good of Russel Means. When will my brothers and sisters ever learn? "
Please People!!!!! wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:40 PM:
" PLEASE STOP IT!!!!CAN'T ANYONE WHETHER WHITE OR BLACK OR RED OR YELLOW, SEE THAT THIS IS A PUBLICITY STUNT FOR MEAN'S TO PROMOTE HIMSELF AND ONLY HIMSELF??? I AM WHITE!!! I AM MY BROTHERS KEEPER!!! IF YOU ARE ANY COLOR AND YOU NEED HELP....I AM GOING TO HELP YOU!!!!YOU ARE MY BROTHERS AND SISTERS!!! I AM PROUD OF MY HERITAGE!!!!I AM ALSO PROUD OF YOUR HERITAGE AND TO BE YOUR BROTHER!!!! WE SHALL OVERCOME THIS TOGETHER AND I WILL NOT LOSE YOU AS MY FAMILY, BECAUSE WE SHARE THIS EARTH TOGETHER!!! THE WORDS I WANT TO LEAVE WITH YOU IS THIS!!! IF YOUR HEART IS FILLED WITH HATE TOWARDS ME...I STILL LOVE YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! "
Itsjustmyopinion wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:30 PM:
" I don't know where everyone gets the idea that ALL "INDIANS" recieve a monthly check. That is TOTALLY false and those of you that hang that over our heads are ignorant. My family are all enrolled members and the only one of us that recieves a check is my disabled son. Maybe you should check your facts before you rave. I do not recieve food stamps, energy assistance or any other FEDERAL money. I live on the reservation and am proud of it. I think that Means and his supporters should make like chinchillas and jump off of a cliff!!! "
Admiration for the Natives wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:27 PM:
" Despite the hate mongering on this forum. My best friend is and always will be a Native. "
What I Admire About the Lakota wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:25 PM:
" I admire the tradition that allowed them to live in such a harsh climate here on the Northern Plains. Your self sufficiency is an inspiration to all out doors men. "
Silence the Hate wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:22 PM:
" For every hate filled post here, I vow to post 4 posative. I hope all educated, open hearted and open minded people will join in. Together we can silence the hate. I'll start off by stating that the thing I admire most about my Native neighbors is the large number that choose to serve this country despite our history. "
Still Your Neighbor wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:19 PM:
" My Native neighbor and I have had a good laugh over this. While the haters trade insults, our families are planning a night of movies and snacks. In the end, the dreams of his family are no different than dreams of my own. Both of us realize that neither of us will get there without each other. Peace to my friends of all colors. "
ray wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:44 PM:
" Dick Chaney is happy, after being denied a chance to invade Iran, he can now invade Lakota! "
Chicano wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:44 PM:
" MTPonyboy said "Did you ever notice Asian Americans and Mexican Americans come here and maintain there (sic) culture and families" as a way of attacking Lakota people seeking freedom. Well, MTPonyboy, have you ever noticed that most Mexicans look no different than most Indians? That's because we are Indians. The sad truth, though, is that we don't maintain our culture when we come here, because Spanish culture and language are not ours, any more than English culture and language are yours as Native people in the US. 20 million Natives - 4/5 of the people -died within 100 years of the arrival of the Spanish. It's called GENOCIDE. That the average Lakota man on the rez lives to age 44 is called GENOCIDE. Assimilation is GENOCIDE. You see how effective it is.. YOU DON'T EVEN think OF MEXICANS AS INDIANS NOW - and a couple of generations down the line you won't think of yourselves as Indians either- you'll be ENglish speaking Englishmen, and they'll call you Englishmen just like fools call us "Spanish" now. What part of GENOCIDE don't you understand? Don't forget, Europe conquered us 300 years before they got to you, and they've had many more generations to work the evil magic of assimilation on us than they have on you. Maybe in 200 years some fool will be bragging that the Lakota people still speak English, and haven't given up their native English culture, and holding that up as an example to, say, Native Hawaians who still haven't sold their soul to the American monster at that point, the way that some here have done. A word to the wise -STOP EMBRACING YOUR KILLERS stop attacking Russ Means. IT'S NOT MEANS WHO GAVE YOU THE LOWEST LIFE-EXPECTANCY IN THE WORLD. IT'S NOT MEANS WHO IS DRIVING YOUR CHILDREN TO SUICIDE. IT'S NOT MEANS WHO BROUGHT YOU THE DEMON ALCOHOL OR WHO'S STARVING AND FREEZING YOU TO DEATH IN THE WINTER. IT'S "AMERICA." "
back to the bargaining table wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:25 PM:
" With Mr Means' approach, the old treaties, which the OLS are dissatisfied with, would be abandoned. Fine. What position is the OLS in to negotiate any new agreement? Why would the US offer anything to the OLS? For that matter, just who would be defined as the OLS? Mr. Means' group? The current "government" (those not resigning because of drug and legal issues)? I have no problem saying goodbye to the old treaties. I'm tired of all the complaining about them. But be careful of what you wish for Mr. Means. In the 1800's the US had serious incentive to come to terms with Native peoples. What would inspire the US to give the OLS a better deal now? I think the general sentiment is that if the OLS wants to stand on its own feet, fine. But that doesn't involve the support/crutch of US taxpayers. "
james jones wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:18 PM:
" They say"We are not trying to embarrass the United States" but that seems to be exactly what they want to do. They want to blame their problems on someone else and not take accountability. I'll bet they still expect the welfare support from the US even though they don't consider themselves citizens anymore. This is a very black eye for decent respectable north american indians. good ridance to them. "
Re: To Amazed wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:03 PM:
" I absolutely WASN'T taking any anger out on anyone! I AM white. I agree with you that neither side has much control over the current problems, I was merely noting that a lot of people are making accusations against a group that probably had nothing to do with this ridiculous stunt by Means. My question to you is what CAN we do? "
I agree Bring in The State Ploce wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:57 PM:
" I agree we need the state police on the Pine Ridge. Crime is to bad for our officers and courts to handle it. Actually we seem to have no court system here. Somebody robs you nothing gets done even when you know who that person is. You get your car broken into, nothing gets done. You report drug activity next door nothing gets done,.. You go to court and it gets thrown out. This is the most lawless place in the country. A Band of Thieves.. Even the council robs us and usually gets away. Okay a few get caught here and there. We have drug dealing council members, drug using council members that try to take the issues of being drug tested to court. Isn't that insane?? And where is our President Yellow Bird Steele? Kicked back in Rapid City with the OST council and the rest of the OST Employees enjoying the LNI tournament on TRIBAL funds. Thanks to Crystal and Government funding these people get paid vacations all the time. Where next Las Vegas for INFR? You all should just charter a plane when you travel, might be cheaper and save the government a little bit of money.. Im sure if Russ was President Council would NOT be having meeting all over the country.. "
Observer34 wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:47 PM:
" This whole thing is a scam, although a well thought out one. The part that caught my attention is the idea of liens against selected assets in the disputed area of Lakota. I can imagine the immense amount of suits and counter suits that will follow for years until something is resolved (or maybe never resolved) through the various federal or even international courts. Behind all of this is an army of lawyers salivating at the chance to file endless claims against businesses, landowners and individuals unfortunate to be an unwitting party to this event. Overall, this thing is a lose-lose on all sides except for the attorneys involved with the endless future litigations. "
Wah Wah Wah wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:44 PM:
" Thats all I hear, how bad the Native American is treated in SD, cry me a river. Yes, I am Native American and I get tired of the poor poor me syndrome. I am college educated and work and my life is what I make of it. Quit thinking the government owes us something we owe ourselves the opportunity to get off the rez, our choice and if you choose not to than stay and quit whinning. This land belongs to us all, whites, black ,natives or whomever chooses to call SD/US home. UNDER ONE NATION AND UNDER GOD, think about those words. We are critized by non Natives because of person's like Means. Native Americans will not get their land back that was signed away in the 1851 treaties, nor should we! "
Pax Rediculous wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:43 PM:
" Mr. Rand, this is not life imitating art unless Russell has ten times the money, followers and brains than he appears to and we actually do go to war (he does not). And congrats to you on finding a way to shamelessly promote your new book via this serious and sad situation. I hope your writing is of higher quality than your ability to create connections where none exist. And by the way, the Lakota people (with some help from their Cheyenne relations) did whip the U.S. in 1876. It is what came later that is important to this conversation. Ken Rand wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:53 AM: " Life imitates art. My alternate history fantasy novel titled Pax Dakota postulates a nation called Dakota which whipped the U.S. Army in 1876. It comes out from Five Star in May. " "
re: white privilege wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:43 PM:
" I am white, and educated lefty, and you do make sense, we all have hidden agendas we do not let others see, we know we are prejudice and the sad thing it goes directly to our children, I cannot support RM one way or the other, because I am not apart of the tribe but he does have good points. white guy "
? wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:26 PM:
" I would like to know how Russel plans on supporting 30+ thousand Lakotas? With no funding from the Governemnt and no privately own business but a few, how are we supposed to survive! We currently rely on the US government and what in the future? Rely on a foreign counrty? We look through out history and know there is a better way to resolve this. I say Sell the black hills, all but the sacred grounds, legalize alcohol on the rez and bring in the state police...Maybe crime rate will drop, and use the profit from the alcohol to build more treatment centers...Theres one for you Russ! Try that on and see how that works...That is more realistic. People will argue that our ancestors fought for that so why sell! Our ancestors are dead and soon we will be too....We need to make something for our children and the generations to come and not live in the past and cry around for what was promised in the past and try to promise the future! Russ justs needs to mind his own business and worry about his next acting gig or all those kids and grandkids he has floating around! "
Waste of Time wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:23 PM:
" I see Res Guy is one of the delusional who thinks there will be a mass white exodus from the Black Hills. Your anger will only grow deeper when you realize we are here to stay. Have a nice day neighbor. "
get real wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:19 PM:
" While I think that Mr. Means had good intentions at one time, I agree with so many others that he can not make this decision for all of us Native Americans without consulting the tribes as a whole and putting it to a vote. I do not think that taking away our voices by making decisions without holding council among the tribes is the right answer. "
To Amazed wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:14 PM:
" Likewise, don't take your anger your white neighbors either. They have about as much control over the current conditions as the Natives do. The Natives perpetuate this myth of white privelege as much as the whites perpetuate the myth of the Natives being welfare recipients. "
To: Rez Guy wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:10 PM:
" Hey, did you miss the comments from your own people? You know what they say about people in glass houses? "
reply: Poor white trash wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:10 PM:
" Seems to me that poor white trash must have met Mena And Robin. I live on the reservation, I am Lakota, I have friends all over, White, Native.. I work, pay taxes, normal guy... Were not so bad.. And to a lot of us this is home, Im educated, I can get a job off the reservation but I choose to stay because my familys here, Pine Ridge is actually a beautiful place, the Badlands are awesome, the valleys with pine topped ridges, Hence the name Pine Ridge, are beautiful, and most of the people are great. You just get a handful that make the whole place appear to be ugly when it really isn't. And some of those have just been indicted. Oh well you get the good and the bad, just seems lately the bad have been making all the headlines.. "
Rob wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:03 PM:
" Cool! I'm a white man but a sovereign nation right here in South Dakota!!! Cant wait to join and live there!! On a side note, this is like that platform in the ocean off the coast of England that called themselves a "sovereign" nation. They, like the Means group, only did it for fame. If this was legit, then the press wouldn't have been notified and told to run it everywhere. "
THINK ABOUT IT!!!!! wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:49 PM:
" Our reservation has never recovered since Wilsons Administration. Think about that!!! We've had the same type of dysfunctional councils and presidents since that time. It's time to take a stand and Unite. We can get through this mess. We need a new leader, not the same old beat up crew we have in there right now. Garf on council? Gummer on Council?? GIVE ME A BREAL ALREADY!!! What do you expect when you vote these types of people in??? I suppose Jump will be our next president. Wouldn't surprise me.. "
rez worker wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:24 PM:
" who gave russel the permission to speak for all lakotas?he dont like war vets he has no respect for them.he did not grow up on the rez,he must be hurting for attension again,only a few can stand his BS,he causes trouble then he leaves.hes an actor plain and simple,hes good at beating up elders,the film makers(liberals) must not be hard up this time to hire himthe people that stand up for him are losers too.when russel leaves they go back into there holes and wait for a welfare check they bite the hand that feeds them.all the words that come out of his mouth are mostly sideways or ideas to harm the people not help them,he is selfish wake up peolpe ever since wounde knee ended this Rez went to hell real fast and it never recovered think about it!!!!!!!!! "
Felicia (porcupine) wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:01 PM:
" Means is only in this for himself he is not out to help anyone but all his own many children from all the many other women "
Rez Guy wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:54 AM:
" OMG everything was going so good!The caucasianswere saying so so many good things about us .What with LNI going on and all.I have never seen seen this blog filled with such hate.Everybody in Rapid City are showing their true colors.To "Ryan" the "poor" Farmers and ranchers of South Dakota waste more tax $ than all The Reservations in SD.I have Lived on the PR Rez all my life and I still don't know, nor have I ever recieved an "Indian Check" whatever you think that is.Give us back our lands and we can become economically self Sufficient! By the way, I voted for Russell every time he ran for chairman of our Tribe. "
RE: Gina wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:54 AM:
" Sorry, there is no economic sustainability plan. Russ has no intention on seeing this through. The sole purpose of this proclimation was to draw the attention of the media. In short, when it comes to building and sustaining a sovereign nation, you're on your own. Russ will be tucked comfortably in his upper class home in Arizona. "
Totally Amazed wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:53 AM:
" I cannot believe what one single person can do to stir up so much bigotry and anomosity. As I read the RCJ this morning the following articles impressed me: Louie Krogman honored with star quilt at LNI, Sanford donates $5 million to Crazy Horse Memorial, On a day when racial lines seemed nonexistent, the people of the Cheyenne River Indian Reservation - Native American and white - came together to mourn Cpl. Tanner O'Leary. I say do not take your anger out on the Lakota people for the acts of Russell Means. As many have stated he does not speak for all. There are so many injustices with the way things were done in the past and there are many problems that should be addressed in the present, but pointing fingers and calling names will never improve anything. We all know there are many social ills in the Indian community but they do not hold some exclusivity to them, they are just more prevalent. I respect the American Indian for the proud people they are. Does Mr. Means really think that withdrawing from the United States will improve his peoples lifestyles? I wish this article had stirred more real thoughts on how we could come together as a nation and solve the problems we all share. "
A Voice Crying On the Plains wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:52 AM:
" Wow, I couldn't believe the ignorance on these issues. First of all, the Tribes need to come together and 3/4th of the Men need to agree if we are going by treaty or at the very least all of the Tribal Councils of the Lakota Nation will need to come together and agree. Our Grandfathers knew this would be impossible so the 1868 treaty was the Last. I do not blame all of the white people but until the United States Government and the people understand the history of Native Americans our the First People, this racism will continue. I went to college and worked 3 to 4 jobs at the time. I like going to other states because the racism is not as potent. There is right now 5-6 million dollars being spent in Rapid City. I like going to Rapid City because of the culture. I like to read books and drink coffee and go a movie and hang out at the Mall. Once in awhile I like to get a room and have a nice dinner with great company. Russel Means doesn't want to be an American because of the treatment of the Lakota people. We need to work together to help our people. I like to share with people about our situation, we live in poverty and yet the rest of America lives off of the resources of this great Continent! I want to be successful in this life and I do not always rely on the value system of America but I hope to live as my ancestors lived for the future. I like the way Russel Stirs up the people with his shenannagins(sp) because we can learn more of the people who live off stolen lands. I believe the Creator will set things right and the White Man will pay for His Sins. As for now as an Oglala Lakota Man I choose to stay American. "
So wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:51 AM:
" Can anybody explain to me what Russ or his followers expect from this? Does his 'Lakota Nation' seriously think there will be a mass white exodus from the hills? I wonder how it will take before Russ suporters emerge from this fantasy and realize they've been duped again? "
iseesomemoretribes wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:45 AM:
" Is the Lakota tribe the only one is SD?? Who the heck is Russell Means anyway? Looks like an old actor without a job to me!!! Move on Mr. Means,California is calling. Save SD some money? What is the name of your new nation. Meansville? "
Larry wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:42 AM:
" Congratulations to the Rapid City Journal for once again giving prominence to a bit of nonsense that serves only to tittilate readers and get 'em annoyed. I suspect the RCJ thinks it could be at the vortex of a big national/international story, if they keep priming the pump with this emotionally charged "story" that lacks any real significance. Health care. Housing. Education. Media consolidation. Open government. All of them a bit more complicated and difficult to cover, so I expect the RCJ will continue to gravitate toward the easier "hot-button" topics. Look for more coverage of Russell Means' antics and mountain lion kittens who've been orphaned. "
hawkin wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:41 AM:
" let them declare this and require passports for them to leave the reservations. also, cut off all u.s. financial support. "
OK! wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:36 AM:
" I am a Oglala Lakota Sioux. Born and raised on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. And lived here a majority of my life. I am a hard working mother of four children. I do not qualify for any type of assistance and have received handouts in forms of scholarships and pell grant and higher ed. My mother and father worked all their lifes and so did my grand parents. Alot of what is being said is the truth! And the truth hurts! Expecially when heard from someone else! Some Native Americans on the rez are lazy! And just want money for free to live for free. There are so many jobs that get advertised on a weekly basis here on the rez! Where are all the applicants? And if hired, they get lazy and quit and go back to the handouts. They were never tought the meaning of "work for what you want, nothings free" The public safety is corrupt and the school system is about two years behind national average! But who is going to do anything about it? NO ONE! Everyone sits her and bitches and wines but no one will do anything about it! Scared? Maybe, not education? Definitely! I worked since I was 14. Since 2000 I worked for a program funded by the government. BUT I WORK for what I get! and I work hard! I earn my money! And all the people I work with work had for they they get also. Our progam doesn't GIVE us money to go stay in RC every pow wow or basketball game. The money is used for a better purpose and If i want to go, i'll use my hard earned money to go watch! THe handouts givin to the people should be worked for! They should give them hourly wages and pay for time worked. Not just givin! I hav elived off the rez and have to admit! I like it better! You never hear of people cryin around about not receiving something free or why another family got more then I did cause i'm more needy! Only if that could come back to my homeland! Even back in the day of Tipis and having all the land, Native Americans worked for their food and shelter! Come on guys! Grow up and grow with the times! Nothings free and the things that are arent worth your time! "
Grandpa Russ wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:28 AM:
" I hope this was a good move you did considering that we have a federally funded health care facility on the reservation. Well I hope that you and the rest of the crew thought long and hard before comming to this conclusion. Remember the oyate and dont make us suffer for this. "
Gina wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:22 AM:
" WoW! How exciting and scary at the same time! I'd love to learn more about the movement, especially the economic sustainability aspects. "
Joseph Budd wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:21 AM:
" Ah yes, another story on Means' method of madness. What's next? He'll claim to own the entire western half of the US? Means seems to have forgotten several things in his tantrum. First of all, the Pine Ridge Reservation, and several others, rank either last, or next to last, in the nation, for employment, lifespan, etc. Turning it into a independent Nation isn't going to solve anything....but could cause another Wounded Knee. Second, If he thinks, with a announcement, that the State Dept is simply going to roll out a map, scribble a new country into existence, it won't happen either. For the simple fact, no matter what Means says, he was born in America...last time I saw, you can't suddenly get an idea to remove yourself from the US, and take the land with you....just doesn't work that way. Lastly, the Government would be stupid to give in to Means, because if he does that, then what's to stop the latino population, from demanding california, and other lands won, from mexico, or England demanding back the 13 colonies? Maybe Means should just leave instead....after all, most people admit he's full of hot air. "
OK wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:14 AM:
" Can I have the American government issued checks that the renouncers used to receive? Or will we still issue them checks, even though they were wronged? Curious. I would imagine that they have yet to think that far ahead. It is tragic that the native people lost the land. But they did lose it in a war. That's what happens...especially when a knife is brought to a gun fight. I wasn't there but I still receive the hate and the bill for it. "
poor white trash wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:11 AM:
" I am poor white trash and i am tired of working a minimum wage job and eating hot dogs and macaroni and cheese. Can i move to the rez and have a home given to me and food put on my table? I promise that i will to the best of my ability, complain that whatever is given me is never enough, and will make the white man the focus of my failures, every chance that i get. I promise that i will not be happy with anything the white man does for me, and will always want more. I will teach my children, first and foremost, That the white man is responsible for our shortcoming's, and should they ever do anything wrong...It is the white man's fault. I will elect council members consistantly, that will bring drugs onto the rez to sell to our people, and if they are caught, i will automatically refer to rule number one...It is the white man's fault. I will never enlist in the white man's military, because it is their responsibility to keep "our" land protected and also to keep "us" free and fed and able to complain that more is never enough. I promise that i will never do anything to help another race other than "US NATIVES" and promise to be a drain on "THEIR" economy. I promise to personally inflict as much hatred on as many non-natives as i can as often as i can. Because this is how "WE" display our "NATIVE PRIDE"!!! "
25 wrote on Dec 21, 2007 11:06 AM:
" Sounds good to me... Cut the checks off "
jc wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:51 AM:
" Oh my goodness, another yellow thunder!!!! Could it be that without the input of tax dollars (live there tax free????) Mr. Means is going to foot the bill for his NEW NATION. If they are an independant nation, that means the US doesn't need to give them any more $ ? How would that work???? Yippee! we can send more $$$$ to Iraq. To all of us that know this is just smoke, it is a big joke. Most white people respect the indian nations and are saddened by the irresponsible way the people in charge have handled things. "
To: James; Re: moving in on LNI... wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:45 AM:
" You shouldn't pick on CHILDREN. All of the Children on the world are precious. "
To The Patriotic Native Pride wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:44 AM:
" I have read all the replys from the Native Rez people, and I have yet to see anything that resembles American Patriotism. Please share with us Natives and Non-Natives some TRUE stories of your family members who have served and died in WWI, WWII, Korean, Vietnam, and Iraqi Wars, to preserve and protect the Freedom of your family as well as mine. These are people that you and I should be proud of and never forget, that they gave their lives for our Freedom. Lets hear some of these stories and share with the readers both Native and Non-Natives the storie's of their heorism, in keeping "OUR" Country "FREE"!!! "
Ronnie Dobbs wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:33 AM:
" Here's what I think should happen. Since I happen to love my Lakota brothers and sisters (I even went to school with many of them, first in Mission and then at BHSU), I call on the US government to pay the treaty in full. However instead of paying the tab by throwing cash at the problem, how about a Nancy Pelosi-led congress take some of the earmarked money for fruit-fly research and other frivolous and idiotic earmarks (ice-skating rinks and bike paths in Minnesota) and reallocate the money back to the Lakota by investing in infrastructure on and around the Pine Ridge reservation to allow for new jobs and a better economy. I'm not talking about building new casinos here. I'm talking about building economically sound businesses, such as supermarkets, construction businesses, etc. This would encourage self-determination and autonomy in a way far greater than just writing a check for corrupt people like Garnier to squander away from real Lakota constituents. But be forewarned, this would bring the US even-steven with the Lakota, and if y'all muck this up, well you are on your own and would wind up getting bought out just like before. Sound fair to you? It does to me. W, git er done!!! "
MTponyboy wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:32 AM:
" HELLO!!! I live and work in Montana on the Ft. Peck Reservation. Indian culture is beautiful and so are the people. BUT! Stop crying foul!(THE ACTIVIST) Did you ever notice Asian Americans and Mexican Americans come here and maintain there culture and families. They work hard and maintain everything Indians say are taken from them. Some Native Americans need to get off there soap box and use there free health care, free education, save taxes they do not have to pay, save the monthly checks they receice (THANK YOU AMERICA!)and live there dreams. Every Native American I have seen become successful, has been a hard working individual with the desire to maintain their culture and become educated to provide for their family. I can tell you most Native American agree with my ideas, after all I got them from these great Americans. STOP COMPLAINING. "
Cecil wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:29 AM:
" If they want to become their own nation. Then let's stop the monthly support checks and anyother government support checks to them. Let their nation support themselves and take care of their people medically, education, and all other support. Let them stand by themselves. Russell Means is just thinking of himself not the wealfare of the Lakotas in whole. "
No Thanks wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:25 AM:
" That's all we need is Means Commune. Sorry, but all love, peace and happiness communes usually end up the same. I don't want to be part of the movie on lifetime or see myself on CNN. Hmmm...nope not a good idea. "
History wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:23 AM:
" The US Government did, indeed, "give away" the land, but not without conditions. The Sioux repeatedly broke those conditions and continue to do so with this treasonist announcement. "
Native Veteran wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:11 AM:
" To all who are reading this....Mr. Means does not speak for us as a whole culture of Lakoa People. This is a last grab at publicity stunt. Go back where you orginally come from. You are making us look like idiots as a whole. We are not! There is many educated Lakota's out there and educated people do not do what you have just done. They get with the people as a whole. I am so embarrassed of you and your so called Movement. Didnt Gary Rowland go to prison for running drugs? And you yourself, what you did to our people in the early 70s must haunt you, it should. I was a little girl back then and remember very well. Why do people out here in the big real world relate Lakota to what happened in the 70s with AIM and goons. You are just nothing but an embarrassed old man. Old age must be setting in huh? I think the president of Tribe John Yellow-Bird Steele and the Pipe carrier are going to have their hands full trying to do undo political damage you have done. Yes, I remember very well our own people didnt want a convicted felon like yourself to be our tribal president. I wish newspapers would not even give you the time and day anymore. The day I am booted off my own land of people where I was born and raised and then have to give up my passport, drivers license. I am sorry, but that will be a cold day. I fought for this country and I made a good life for myself and its bought and paid for. And I will fight for it. "
Conclusion wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:09 AM:
" One can only conclude that the future of the Lakota people is a lost cost. Go ahead Russ and all of your chest beating followers; Declare war on the U.S. I think the bigots on both sides will be surprised at how many Natives and whites will chose to stand together. "
WHITE PRIVILEGE wrote on Dec 21, 2007 10:02 AM:
" THANK YOU RUSSELL MEANS FOR SAYING THE TRUTH, NOTING BUT THE TRUTH SO HELP YOU GOD. SOUTH DAKOTA IS FIILED WITH GERMANS, JEWS, MIXED EURO BLOOD PEOPLE. NON-INDIANS HAVE TREATED INDIANS SO BAD FOR SO MANY YEARS IN THE GREAT STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA, PREJUDICE, RACIST, DISCRIMINATION IT IS HISTORICAL BEHAVIOR. RUSSELL MEANS SAYS THINGS THAT SPARKS A NERVE. THE TRUTH HURTS. MANY INDIANS IN THEIR STATE OF SOUTH DAKOTA REMAIN QUITE TO THE TREATMENT THEY ENDURE, AND ARE AFRAID TO SPEAK UP, FOR RETALIATION IS PREVALENT AMONG THE INDIAN. THIS IS WHAT INDIANS LIVE W/IN THE RACISIT TOWNS, AND TO YOU THE PREJUDICE PERSON READING THIS, YES IT IS THE TRUTH. MANY NON-NATIVE AMERICANS TRAVEL TO THEIR “homelands” WERE THEY ORIGINATED FROM WHERE “our” ANCESTORS CAME FROM, WE GO BACK TO SEE WHERE WE CAME FROM, OUR ANCESTORS WERE OPPRESSED IN THEIR HOMELANDS SO WE CAME TO THE AMERICANS TO BE THE OPRESSORS! I AM GLAD RUSSELL MEANS MAKES YOU FEEL UNCOMFORTABLE IT IS BECAUSE YOU HAVE TO HEAR THE TRUTH. AND YOU DAMN DUMB INDIANS, IF YOU DON’T LIKE RUSSELL MEANS THEN SPEAK UP STAND UP FOR YOUR PEOPLE INDIANS ARE JEALOUS PEOPLE OF THEIR OWN KIND. JEALOUS INDIANS. IF YOU CANNOT SUPPORT WHAT THE TRUTH IS DON’T SAY ANYTHING BAD ABOUT YOUR FELLOW INDIAN. I SUPPORT YOU RUSS, I SUPPORT ANY INDIAN THAT STANDS IF THE FACE OF OPPRESSION. To truly understand white people in South Dakota GOOGLE "white privilege". "
dear box thinker wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:58 AM:
" You don't buy land that was never for sale in the first place. This land de-facto belongs to the lakota, by US law, regarless if they kicked anyone out or not. What whites do in this area is either knowingly or unknowing participate in what psycologists call "group deviance"; i.e., when enough people commit a wrong it becomes right in the majority when it is still morally wrong. Are the children born in Iraq in one hundred years, of full "american" blood, native Iraqis? Have the same gripes as the real ones? This is about folling accepted law or changing the law and following it. "
I am a Native American wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:57 AM:
" If the Army and the Government would have followed through on their original plans when the reservations were formed, this would not even be an issue. Let's turn the clock back and they can finish the mission they started. "
Horse man wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:56 AM:
" The Sioux always forget that they took the land along the river away from a peaceful people that were here before the Sioux came from Mn. "
Re: to Pierre wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:55 AM:
" As a full-blooded Dakota (Sisseton-Wahpeton), I agree with you 100% percent. That time, of long ago, has past, and also, the time is now--to make productive gains in positive ways that affect each of us individually, and as peoples, in this time. And before everyone jumps to use the hate or racist card, or poor-me, or live in my moccasins, or indians get everything for free cards--or any of that stuff-or anything in this blog (some of which seems very weird and unrelated)--just remember that most things in life are not easy. But we live the best we can. And we can all do better--myself included. We are human. Russell Means is NOT a chief--and he NEVER would have been. EVER! Not historically, had he been around in the 1600's, 1700's or 1800's--and not now. Had he been around back then, he may have been a warrior--but with his penchant for attention and lust for personal glory, he would have flamed out and been forgotten. He can ONLY speak for his group of followers, and he is wrong. And no, I don't think I would have been a chief--I know I wouldn't have been--but rather, simply a warrior--as I am today, a modern-warrior who provides for his family and does the best he can, to make it in this world. And to see his children do the same. "
Ken Rand wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:53 AM:
" Life imitates art. My alternate history fantasy novel titled Pax Dakota postulates a nation called Dakota which whipped the U.S. Army in 1876. It comes out from Five Star in May. "
Lakota Woman Concerned wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:52 AM:
" Man some of these comments sure make you think and from the words in this article sure lets you know how many haters there really are in the state of South Dakota. Russell Means does not speak for me or my family, we have a leader for that. Also do not bring up such things if you have clue about them, ie..the reservation, reservation life and so on. We Lakota are proud people but also generous, ignorance sparks fights/hate/racism so stop talking and get educated. My child is proud of where she comes from and she knows it. It starts at home and that is where ignorance starts also. We need to get along and keep the hatred out of it. Look at it from both sides not just yours. "
History wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:51 AM:
" Why should the Native version of this country's history hold any more merit than the white version. The Native version is an unwritten history that changes to fit the latest political agenda and is subjects to the whims of a people the do not hide their hatred for all other races. "
Even If wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:47 AM:
" Even if the land belongs to the Sioux, why would they object to me living here? Is my race inferior to theirs? Can someone from the Superior Native Race tell me why my presence is so offensive to them? Intolerance at this level by any other race is called racism. "
Come On: wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:21 AM:
" We all know that the Black Hills belong to Nicholas Cage. "
native worker wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:20 AM:
" if we want the black hills back so bad why aren't our tribal governments making preparations to buy any land that becomes available, we cry poverty but there are always business opportunities like buying failed businesses in RC or any blk hills town? farms go up for sale all the time which could employ up to 25 ppl if done right more!..so why are tribes so poor & dependent on government draw downs? because they don't think out side the box. "
Revisionist Sister wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:19 AM:
" Hey everyone- First, most of you are not very well informed about the history of the United States and the native peoples that lived on this land well before we came. Before you form your opinion on this matter try reading some revisionist historian texts on the subject. You will find that most of what you think you know are myths. Those of you that are well informed, kudos! It takes a truly inquisitive and adventurous mind to move past status quo and learn the truth of our history. Second, I fully support this action and I'll tell you why: regardless of the outcome it will get the nation talking about native people, how they have been marginalized and what can be done to correct and improve the situation. This conversation should be led by native people if any healing is to be done. Finally, for some you that posted the most hateful, simple minded posts... the Lakota people and all native people, regardless of tribe, are your brothers and sisters. Period. We are a HUMAN RACE. Step outside of your comfort zone and LISTEN to what they are saying. This is not hippy dippy talk here- this is important. Why should the United States be allowed to continually break terms of this 150 year old treaty without it being challenged. This kind of healthy litigation is the basis of the democracy that we so cherish. As an American I am thankful to all Native Americans for the friendship they offered the European settlers all those years ago, and I'm sorry for everything that came next for your people. Something must be done to repair your culture and I stand with you in support. "
Mother Bison Lips wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:17 AM:
" When my grandfather followed the heards we ended up in a beautifull place that the white man took from us. I weep for my grandchildren for they will always be a stepchild in this country. Race relations have soured instead of improve, this concerns me. I do feel that the "reservation" philosophy should be abandoned. It is painfully obvious that it hasn't worked. "
belongs to who? wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:09 AM:
" its jus crazy ..were do all you people get all your information on who owned the land around 1776 any way..from what i was taught that though treaties that the land base that included the black hills & some of Wyoming was given to the lakota as their own land until gold was discovered by what we would call a trespasser today and the government basically said well we will renegotiate a new land base when that didn't work out they took it by military force....sounds like another W-ya in his current exploit for Iracy oil....so as far as who owned it before the US government gave it to the lakota's & then took it away like handing the keys over to your old car but discovering its worth thousands and just taking it back with out asking "
Pierre wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:08 AM:
" Means sees himself as a savior,but in reality he seeks a spotlight for himself.Last I knew the Black Hills belonged to everyone,including the Lakota.The progress over the years to understand,educate,forgive,support,just this week 5 million to Crazy horse, Rounds to protect Bear butte and the support from everyone.Than here comes Means,neading to be remembered in the Same breath as other great leaders,He will never have the respect from his own,so he goes to other countries to make friends. In a week that has Mr. Westemans family morning, and the other positive steps being taken in Indian country I find it sad this story was even printed. "
to Cowboys and Indians wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:06 AM:
" I agree totally with your comment because being Lakota I've been there and done that also and still encounter that ignorant cowboy and Indian mentality regularly in SD. to Just Wondering - Great ideas but too practical for those currently in charge of the us government. Those making the ignorant 'more money in my pockets' comments will only be giving Bush and his cronies more money for their pockets when they leave office a lot richer with the country in debt and the average person continuing to struggle. "
EZ come EZ go wrote on Dec 21, 2007 9:01 AM:
" We were forced into being an American in 1924, now you want us to give up all those cool privilages that come with being an Americana citizen? "
No unity among the crab pulling one another warrior society wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:59 AM:
" I'm sorry Russel but not many from the homelands will join you in this battle. It's too risky to give up the scraps that we fight over. The hang around the forts have control and those of us out in the trenches trying to feed the children, take care of the elders and be in a humble way are too afraid to lose what little traction we have left. Even you and your vision for the future can not save us from ourselves. Thanks for the good intention anyway.... "
Bobbeckybl wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:52 AM:
" I don't really trust people like means, I think him an opportunist and grandstander, but I do support the right of a people to self determination and to disassociate themselves from a nation and its unfair and unjust laws. "
Max wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:44 AM:
" If you really want to stick to principle, the land should just go back to the Cheyenne Natives who were driven out by the Lakota in 1776...which means the Lakota Nation is illegally inhabiting the land and it wasn't legal to make a Treaty with them in the first place. What about the poor Cheyenne children who had to flee from brutal Lakota warriors? In other words, work with what you have and move on so your children can prosper in this new age. "
Fed up native wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:41 AM:
" ppl forget those natives that work pay taxes just like everyone else, yeah i know seeing indians in bars , homeless in RC, living fighting all over the place..but thats not all indinas in fact yes those are indians..natives are those who have pride in them selves & work for a living but those who choose to live on welfare & drink and abuse, a big indian is those who complain but do nothing & still stand there with their hand out, an indian supremest is like Means willing to condemn a nation who basically paid for his birth into this world & made him famous which has passed now he's a has been actor trying his had at tribal government but in reality thats all he is a has been trying so hard to get back into the spot light using oppression as his tool & excuse for being him self "
Reply wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:39 AM:
" "To: deminn wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:32 PM: You haven't taken anything back and I doubt you will. However; if this symbolic act makes you feel as if you've won something, then more power to you." I'm from Minnesota so this isn't my action, but I approve. Symbolisim is what it's all about. It's all some people have, considering the scale of the corruption and usurpation of authority in the US we almost all suffer from. I'd rather get back to constitutional principals. The baisis of those is self determination and power eminating from the individual. What's happened in SD is a hopeful act more than a structural one. And yes, that makes me feel very hopeful for everyone, and thanks for asking. "
Liz wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:36 AM:
" Bravo Lakota Sioux Nation! A bit of bitter medicine is what the USA deserves right about now, when it feels it has the right to decide the fate of others in far off lands. It is time for the USA to be called back home to deal with solving so many of its own problems. And, this is one problem that's been ignored for far too long. "
W - President of the United States wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:32 AM:
" To All: This is the Prez and I just had the drafts come across my desk. To put it frankly, I never realized the gravity of the situation and I am sending my Secretery of State, Ms. Rice to immediately set up a dialogue with Mr. Means and the others. I suggest a scenic back drop such as Cuny Table, because it will make such a good picture, just like the Ft. Laramie photos with the tipis in the background. I am just a simple oil man from Texas whose family made oil on lands owned by the Commanche, Kiowa, and other tribes. Texas did a better job, so to speak, and killed off all of them and sent the survivors to Oklahoma. Texas doesn't have reservations, but just a three Indian communitees without a landbase or any Treaties to throw in my face and humble me as the President who swears to uphold the Constitution. My lawyers have told me the Indians are correct in saying their Treaties were drafted in direct relationship to that piece of paper. I have to honor it and, if Russell had not made such a bad last movie, Pathfinder, where a white man has to save the Indians again, I would pay more attention. But for all of you, dare I say racists, who think all of your tax dollars go to Pine Ridge, they don't. The population of the US is about 350 million, and there are about 5 million who identify themselves "American Indians," this includes all of the blue-eyed, blonde-haired great, great, great, great, great grandsons and granddaughters of Cherokee Princes and Princesses who know nothing about their heritage and work like those of you who say you do. Tax money to Indians has never been a priority for my country and all of your tax money goes into a pool and what goes to Indians on all reservations is about 4 days worth of my War On Terror, or war against the guy who tried to kill my dad from Iraq. Condeleeza is on her way and I have retargeted the US's nukes off of White Clay, Porcupine, and Oglala. Go shake an Indian's hand and say I want to tell you how I am a human being and I want to hear how you are one, too. I will try to be a better human being too and ensure this country follows the rule of law derived from the Constitution. I won't guarantee a mass exodus to the UK, France, Spain, Thailand, China, but perhaps reparations are in order. But Russell, make some better movies before you try and A-list me with your Indianness. W "
get real to "Joseph Budd" wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:26 AM:
" Your comment about Wounded Knee is extremely ignorant. That was a peaceful gathering that the soldiers decided to open fire on. Further more, if the people who invaded this country and decided that the Native American people were dangerous had remembered that they were visitors here the Native Americans wouldn't have been forced to leave their homes and walk "trails of tears" where many died. They would have thought twice before they gave rotten supplies to the Native Americans and blankets that were filled with smallpox. Joseph Budd you have made a posting that is ignorant and disrespectful to the lives that were lost to an attempted genocide in this country. "
get a clue to "1776" wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:18 AM:
" Better check your history again. I am pretty sure that there were many different tribes spread across the land at the time the Pilgrims landed. It wasn't just one tribe that started to spread because their land was invaded. The Lakota are indigenous to the Plains. "
to "Do You Rember James Watt (Secretary of the Interfiior)?" wrote on Dec 21, 2007 8:15 AM:
" Are you really trying to make this connection? What Means is trying to do is get back the land that the Lakota were run off of and then forced to live on the barren land that was "given" to them. He is not trying to mainstream the Lakota people he is merely trying to find a way to return his people to the land that they once thrived on. I may not agree with the group's actions, but Russel Means is in no way trying to "mainstream" his people into a culture that is not their own by the actions his group has chosen. "
Coincidence?? wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:37 AM:
" The murder trial for John Graham is set for June 17,2008, and Russell has begun efforts to insulate himself from any liability as a result of his authorization of the hit on Anna Mae Aquash. This is typical smaoke and mirrors propaganda from Russell. Stay tuned!! "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:16 AM:
" In God we trust? more like no trust "
PINE RIDGER wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:13 AM:
" Good Grief. It is Russ and his *moonbat* followers on the political Left again. I know, because I was once one of them. They will go to their graves perpetually *angry* and equally miserable. My children and the coming Generations will deserve better but no thanks to Moonbat Means! "
hello! wrote on Dec 21, 2007 7:06 AM:
" This is ALL the land, not just the rez! "
buford wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:52 AM:
" Dont let the door hit you on the backside!! "
Speed it up wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:52 AM:
" Is there any way to speed this up so we can get the reservations off of and out of us tax payers pockets??? "
helle W wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:40 AM:
" hi its with great joy to read the good news and from this side off the planet we are lots off people in scandiniavia who will support you regards helle from Denmark "
Chase Ouhsdal wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:38 AM:
" The kids that run around wearing a "sag" and talking all ghetto are victims of genocide.They have been consumed by another culture therefore,the lakota in them is dead.Seems that Indians need to look at themselves before placing blame on the US.Two wrongs don't make a right.The US needs to stand up to the treaties(another word for LAWS)but the people need to do their part if they are to see a positive change on their reservation.The US has provided many excellent opportunities for Natives to accel and be prosperous.Many have but living in a dustbowl in Manderson SD on foodstamps and wine will not bring about much of anything. "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:31 AM:
" In over 2000 years nothing has changed. In God we trust. "
Spearfish wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:04 AM:
" Bye. "
Dave wrote on Dec 21, 2007 6:04 AM:
" If they want to secede from the US then the US needs to stop all of the aide that they get from the US, let them figure out who will pay for there police services, schools not the BIA "
Just an Innocent White Guy wrote on Dec 21, 2007 5:51 AM:
" I am 42 years old and have lived in the Black Hills area all of my life. I have never stolen any land, made any racist comments toward anyone, and have donated to several charities that support Pine Ridge. However, that being said, I have been the victim of racist remarks, threats because of my skin color, vandalism, and these constant accusations of intollerance that we see from leaders like Russal Means. I remember building a Habitat for Humanity home on Pine Ridge and having my car broke into and having to endure insults from some of the people that we were there working for. What kind of Leader fuels hatred against others? At this point in my life I will no longer support the charities who support the people who hate me because I am white. I just don't get it. When one side continues to perpetuate the hate while the other continues to try and make amends, we get nowhere. "
Absolute truth from Ks. wrote on Dec 21, 2007 5:48 AM:
" Russ served a great purpose in his time.He showed the people that we have a right to stand up and be heard as American citizens.But the time for anger and extremists has passed.The problems lay within the bounds of the Lakota and all other tribes.It must start in the home.Intact families and Indians that are involved in education and industry can and will prevail in the future.Keep your families in tact,lead by example and think about the Seventh generation ahead.Don't expect results for yourself or even to see any in your lifetime.They will come in time,as long as we do our part today to have a positive tomorrow.Many will try to keep you down.If not the drug dealers and pimps,it will be these activists that will use words like "sell-out" and "urban-indian".Words that are designed to seperate and belittle.Teach your children to ignore the Gangsta hype and to leave the bottle alone.They too are designed for segragation and self-service.Indians serving Indians can only bring great things and change.Indians serving the whiteman will only bring about poverty.Keep the home in order and think community and don't expect results by morning time.The days of the buffalo hunt are gone.A new world has sprung up in only Two hundred years after centuries of self reliance.At that is fine.Teach your children how to live the traditions and learn from the new-comers.That is our lot in life and we'd better get real about it or the genocide is already complete. "
Pahasapaboy wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:55 AM:
" Just to let everyone know that this story has gone around the world in both online and print editions of newspapers, even local newspapers in far off lands where your ancestors might have come from but you couldn't find on a map. In most there are detailed maps and explanations of what this is about, which lands are involved and what treaties were broken. Readers around the world know that this is not about reservations but rather the land invoked in the broken treaties, which is a considerable swath of land by anyones reckoning. This is not a local story anymore. Many people will be reading the comments here and the comments here do not shine a very bright light on the people of Western South Dakota. "
Ronnie Dobbs wrote on Dec 21, 2007 3:21 AM:
" This is outstanding news!! I don't know about you, but this makes my holiday season much more enjoyable and enriching! It does my heart proud. This means that my beautiful United States of America no longer has to claim the felon, Russell Means as a citizen anymore. Mr. Means, I hear that Hugo Chavez has a vacancy in his administration, albeit a temporary one. Oh, and if the lakota is deemed a "sovereign nation"--although I thought that they already were one?--does this mean that our hard-earned taxpayer dollars no longer have to go toward paying for the lakota's welfare benefits, free housing, education, etc? I believe Mr. Means and his "sovereign nation" would be solely responsible for for providing for welfare benefits for his own "country's" constituents, correct? Let's all hope so!! Good luck, Mr. Means! God Bless and MERRY CHRISTMAS!!! "
OBSERVOR wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:53 AM:
" It is unfortunate Russell Means resorts to these types of tactics for pure publicity. His declaration means nothing. No one will recognize his stand and anyway it's illegal and just another publicity stunt. And to think I used to support him and believed what he said, only in the beginning, now if he wants to redeem himself then he has to show us he can actually produce something of benefit to our Oglala lakota people on the rez. The first step for him is to create something that will benefit us, like a business, rebuild Wounded Knee that he helped destroy and left in shambles and did nothing to help us. He then needs to come back to the REZ and begin his political campaign for President ahead of time, not at the last minute and when he loses he leaves the area again, he never stays around to do anything productive. GET SERIOUS MR. MEANS, YOU HAVE CAUSED YOURSELF TO BECOME A JOKE AMONGST YOUR OWN PEOPLE, BEGIN YOUR REDEMPTION PROCESS NOW AND WE MAY ONCE AGAIN HAVE FAITH IN YOU! "
marcine quenzer wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:35 AM:
" It is time for the Seventh Generation to take back their stewardship of the Earth... Go Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota Nations... All Red Nations follow suit quickly before we all fry in this Global Warming quagmire of ignorant misuse of breath, blood, and soil..... "
RST member wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:11 AM:
" Good job, The government is imberassed of the Native nations anyway.They dont understand what a sovereign nation is. They all call us citizes of the us. So thoes this mean we dont have duel citizendhip anymore. YEA!!!!!Well I know alot of people don t like Russle but he is a good person that just wants to help his people. So hopefully this goes through. Good Job. "
About time wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:08 AM:
" About time this is happening. The U.S. denies there is a Treaty with the Native People but why is there healthcare, commodities and education provided to us? The Government has an obligation to us forever, as long as the grass grows and the rivers flow. This thought has been running through my mind: Immigration is brought up time and time again....Well, there are alot of people out there who do not have a Visa or any documentation at all to stay in this country. Their ancestors came to this country illegally and have remained here, their children were born here and are considered citizens. The mexicans live on this same continent as we natives do, they don't have to have a Visa or permit to come here. People of any other color had to come over in boats and are here illegally. How do I offer my support, both spiritually and monetarily? HUH? "
wamasicu wrote on Dec 21, 2007 2:01 AM:
" Finaly someone who speaks out for the treaty rights. There should be more people like Russel Means who do stand up for their people and try to do something. The current and the former (exept Cecilia Fire Thunder) Oglala Governments are just administrating the poverty of their people and do not achieve anything exept getting good jobs for their own relatives. "
Bill wrote on Dec 21, 2007 1:51 AM:
" Answer me this question is it right for a new nation to take land from a group of native people? I'm quite sure your answer is no. So then we can agree it is wrong that any new Lakota nation take the land and homes from people who are living in those parts of South Dakota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Montana and Wyoming, that Russel and his group is gunning for. So it really is Ironic, Russel is basically asking to take land from native "white people" Ok you know what its sad, its sad that the U.S government conquered the Native Americans(or American Indians which ever term you prefer). But thats the history of the world. Nations conquering each other. How many Native American tribes wared and slaughtered each other? The Sioux are guilty of slaughtering Pawnee and taking their land. And the Pawnee are guilty of the same crimes against other tribes. The Absaroke tribe (also called Crow Indians) Allied with the United States against their enemies. The conflict was not black and white atrocities were committed on both sides. The U.S Military slaughtered Native Americans, Native Americans slaughtered settlers and often each other sometimes while allied with U.S Military "
KellyL wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:49 AM:
" I would like to see a map of their territory since I reside in Nebraska. "
international pressure wrote on Dec 21, 2007 12:32 AM:
" oooohhhhh scary. we could face international pressure. what are they going to do.....quit taking our handouts? not ask us for help next time they get invaded? except for china, I am not sure their is an army we even fear anymore. I know, our Miss USA won't win the miss universe contest. maybe they'll quit shipping us lead painted toys. no wait, they'll quit immigrating here. ding dang it, they may even move the U.N. gee, I haven't found a negative thing yet they could do to us. "
1st Amendment Rights wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:36 PM:
" Russ is true to his colors unlike many RC bloggers. He stands by the soverignty of his own mind and isn't afraid to express it and sign his name to it, just like signing a treaty of freedom of speech. "
chrisQ wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:21 PM:
" wow i cant believe how people act when they can hide behind a blog i love rapid city but never thought that people were so racist.kinda makes me look at them differently so in turn pulls me into the the same dark cloud. "
Cowboys and Indians wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:10 PM:
" What is so hilarious is that we are still bickering about the same old cowboys vs indians nonsense when the underlying problems still exist there. As a "full-blood" Oglala Lakota woman, I found that growing up in South Dakota has only made me stronger since I spent most of my time there agitated and ANNOYED by the amount of negativity and inequity that I experienced daily once I stepped foot off the reservation. I was on the food stamp program, the Child Health Insurance Program and Low Income Energy Assistance concurrently and I was employed FULL TIME in Rapid City, working two jobs...with a bachelor's degree from BHSU. Poverty, low wages, racism, and STUPIDITY hold people down in South Dakota...the Lakota can't integrate if the majority won't give them a chance. SO the next time you want to laugh at out poverty or our acceptance of entitlements, why don't you live a day in my "moccasins" and see how easy it is for you to leave the rez and find a job...HAHAHAHAHA funny cowboys. "
Cause for censorship wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:34 PM:
" Russ is the Rush Lindbob (it's all spelled the same)of NDN Country. "
So simple it hurts wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:32 PM:
" Rabid City bloggers are not interested in the logic that we are all in this together. It takes away from their cultural heritage which dictates that it's always someone must win and some one must lose. The colateral damage touches even their families yet the influence of social norms says don't ask, don't tell. The Russell Means mentality is a threat to mainstream America but in an Ugly Betty kinda way. That's why many cringe when they hear his name. "
phoobaar wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:30 PM:
" While I support their right to wrest control of their own destiny from the worthless treaties that were shredded by the U.S. government before the ink was dry, I predict that this will be the impetus for the martial law scenario that Bush has been salivating over. Get ready for the police state.... "
Rosebuder wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:19 PM:
" Gee! Wow!just when I started to think otherwise of white people. Next time I am pulling of the HWY, I am not going to give the guy any money. I tend on getting after him because of his situation. Socialism? what about just helping out someone because they are human? to each his own, is all you understand. no values... "
M wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:18 PM:
" Russell Means is no more spokesman for the Lakota Nation than I am. What saddens me are the hateful responses from both native and non-native toward each other. Some are so quick to see a "bad" example of one group and accuse everyone of the same thinking and behavior. Why not the same when they see "good" things in a person of a different culture? "
Just Wondering wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:10 PM:
" I would like to ask all of the people who have read or posted comments on this subject to question the viability of supporting an un-popular war. What if? The U.S.Government would spend 70 billion dollars a year on infrastructure development, so bridges won't collapse. Or divide it equally among all the states so they can address their own needs. And let the likes Haliburton, KBR, and others who seem to be making any money right now. Maybe there won't be so many foreclosures on the thousands of home-owners now facing this crisis. WAKE UP PEOPLE!!! This is just another distraction to the many problems this country is facing right now. It dosen't matter if you're Red, White, Black, Brown, or whatever. The problem is with your government and it's priorities, and the people are not it. The profit margins are!!!!!!!!!! "
To: GB wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:04 PM:
" You've already been compensated for what the Government gives to the Siouxs by all the Gold you took out of our Sacred 'Paha Sapa (Black Hills). And you still owe.... "
TO: Perfect Solution wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:56 PM:
" All of us that work and live in South Dakota make less than we could in other places in our professions. Nobody forced you to work here. Go to the big city somewhere and pay property taxes, sales taxes, state income tax, city income tax and sales taxes. Then come back and tell us how bad you have it. "
Did I miss something?? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:35 PM:
" Not to be mean, but last I checked, the Lakota are not native to the Black Hills: the Arikara are. They were driven out by the Lakota coming from Minnesota, who then claimed the Hills. Then, the whites came in a drove out the Lakota, who claimed the Hills. Some things never change. "
G.B. wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:26 PM:
" I feel the Native Americans have been more than compensated for the land. I believe most of the schools, the BIA roads, the Indian Health Services, food stamps, commodities and all the other compensation given over the years since the Anglo-Saxons took over this country should have paid the debt! Just last week I was in a grocery store buying stapes, you know, flour, eggs, milk, potatos etc. I paid cash that I had earned. The Native American woman with 5 other Native Americans that checked out before I did paid with a food stamp type card. She was buying bakery rolls, at about $1 each, banana bread, lunch meats, chips and all kinds of other already prepared food. Her bill was well over $250 for what I consider to be junk food. My bill was less than $40 for items that I will cook and bake myself. I know that the Native Americans are not the only ones paying with the cards, but it is time for reform on these programs as well. Those of us who struggle to pay our bills by working more than one job and cannot afford health insurance or health care would welcome the free or reduced medical benefits that are given by the Indian Health Service. Too bad I am mostly Anglo with just a few ancestors that were Native American or Native Canadians. I am expected to pay my own way or do without. "
Not Racist wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:20 PM:
" The comments being posted here are not racist and not hateful. The comments being posted that are accused of being racist are only being posted because the people writing them do not believe in welfare or entitlements or socialism. All of these are failed policies with abundant proof of why they fail. Countries that have in good faith tried these policies went bankrupt. When you make not working more lucrative than working, pretty soon you are going to run out of workers who have to pay for these programs. People working to provide a living to others who don't work creates friction but not racism. The Journal is doing a good job in my opinion of letting the truth be told without including the hatred of racism. "
This Is Great! wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:47 PM:
" This is absolutely wonderful! I could not support it more! I will have more money in my pocket now because this sovereign nation will no longer need welfare and subsidies from me to live. With their own nation, they can all get jobs and pay their own taxes and support themselves. "
Capt. Obvious wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:47 PM:
" Re: Unbelievable - Do you wonder why the country is so incredibly divided?? Look at the retarded laws and the gomers that are running it....hate crimes for instance...there is nothing that promotes segregation more than a hate crime. The same goes for free government handouts because of race...what a joke! If you want everyone to be equal, MAKE EVERYONE EQUAL! It's pretty simple really. "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:46 PM:
" I never recieved a monthly check from the Government. must be one of those sterotypes. "
Chubby Native wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:27 PM:
" The United States will never acknowledge its treaty violations. but we as the original inhabitants of this land that is now could America must continue to bring attention to these treaty violations. "
Perfect Solution wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:21 PM:
" I have the perfect solution to two major problems in this area. If the Sioux wants "their land" back....I'm willing to move. Please have the federal govt buy back my house and I will gladly relocate somewhere else. You see, I'm public schoolteacher. With all the disrespect, ignorance, and low wages that teachers receive around here......I will gladly take my trade to another state. The Sioux people get a little of "their land" back and I get the wages that I truly deserve. It's a perfect solution. "
Lisa Two Two wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:19 PM:
" As a full blooded sioux taken away at birth by the U.S. gov and adopted out to a non indian family. I will readily agree that something needed to have been done many years ago. Our heritage and culture has been and are being plucked away one by one like the petals on a daisy in the summer "
tools wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:08 PM:
" I for one am tired of these special interest groups picking away at this country’s accomplishments. Russell Means is just an Indian face on an agenda that is being promulgated by a bunch of publicity seekers that think they know better than everyone else. It is sad to see Russell get used by these jokers and even sadder to see the Indian get left behind because they get sucked into this foolishness of entitlement while everyone else moves ahead. "
Unbelievable wrote on Dec 20, 2007 8:04 PM:
" Most of the comments left here by both sides are unbelievable in the way that there is racism from all fronts. Don't let a few bad apples spoil the entire bushel. We are in a time when people should be working together as Americans to be the best nation in the world. Instead we have to break ourselves up into different groups and try to divide the country so that we can feel better about our little groups instead of feeling better as a country as a whole. The blame for this lies in many areas and basically with all of us for allowing the radical few to be the most vocal. It is time for the majority to take action and shut up the minority that wants to split this country wide open. "
Chase Ouhsdal wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:49 PM:
" "A group represents the Lakota Sioux Indian representatives from various reservations and states..."I love this opening line!WHA?Huh?the author was so excited to start up this bogus article and present Means as the spokesperson for all native people he could'nt even type straight!!Russ does not speak for me.WE can't fight the whiteman militarily but we can beat them at their own game.Many of us are well on that path towards building a better future for the generations to come.Who is theis Russel guy anyway? "
for cheryl wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:46 PM:
" Devils Tower is within the boundaries of the 1868 Fort Laramie Treaty, my suggestion for you is to read more and speak less. "
to Jim in WI wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:39 PM:
" I agree with your comment regarding Bush & co however those posting the hateful racist comments are probably the ones that helped put him in office for both terms. Those hateful comments are evidence that racism against Natives in SD is still thriving. "
cheryl wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:31 PM:
" When I lived there years ago the Sioux trib asked for Devils tower back I thought it was a kind of funny because devils tower is not in SD Maybe they were drinking on that day you think "
cab wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:18 PM:
" I was looking at maybe coming there for a trip next summer Do I need a passport Just a tip for all of you you have no responsibility for dead people or anything that went on there before you were born God will only judge you for your short time on this earth so just do the best you can "
?????? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:17 PM:
" I think the time to start sending out bills for past rent is long overdue, especially to the real estate brokers who have mis-led all of their customers over the years. Any body who thinks what Russell and his co-horts are doing is joke, should start by reading the Constitution of the United States, pay particular attention to Article VI sect. II, If you can't understand it's meaning, then you need to go back to school and learn! "
Gov's fault wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:14 PM:
" If the government had never ment to uphold their sides of the treaties then why in the world did they even have treaties in the first place? Having those treaties caused the government to back themselves into a corner. Treaty or no, the out come of the Native struggle with the government in the late 1890's/early 1900's, would have been the same. I am Native, have lived and worked on the reservation for the majority of my life, so yes some of us do work, that's not the issue. The issue is the government not upholding to the laws and treaties that THEY drew up and agreed to adhere to, not the Natives. Weather or not the government of those days knew the treaties were nothing but a smoke screen, they should not have entered into a legal contract with any soverign nation without pondering what it could to do THEIR future generations (i'm talking about the whites who now have to deal with the tretchery of their ancestors), especially in terms of race realtions. I am not placing all the blame on all white people, I am placing blame on the US Gov. for this huge mess. Just as not all whites are racist rednecks, not all Natives are out for a quick buck. That is the point alot of the "just get a job" bloggers are missing!! It's not about the money, most of my generation (I'm 27)will be dead and gone by the time this case ever comes to a conclusion so I will get no monetary reward for just being Native. It is about government accountability, something the US Gov. has been slowly but surely fazing out in the past century. I don't hate you whites, I don't blame you for my current state of being, I only wish you would try to see it differently. Imagine if Natives took the land illegally, how would you feel then? "
half breed wrote on Dec 20, 2007 7:12 PM:
" One of the worst things we have done to the Indians was not to bring them into our American society. We just put them on reservations because it was easy and no one had to address the real issues of educating and assimilating the Indian people. Yes! Many Indians were killed and pushed into reservations over the last 500 years but that was then and it is over now. Indians are Americans too and it is about time they recognized that fact and be thankful for it. Most of the people in this country have ancestors that have made sacrifices for the common good and moved on without complaining. "
Do You Rember James Watt (Secretary of the Interior)? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 6:58 PM:
" Google this!! James Watt DOI and find that when he suggested abolishing the resevations and mainstreaming its inhabitants into the Nations populas that he was Tared and Feathered and road out of office for even suggesting such a thing. Now you have Big Mouth Means (Lakota for Only Me) trying to do basically the same thing with a new twist. Come on wake up and smell the Buffalo Dung! Only you can change the way you live on the Res. Nobody else can change it for you. "
For all Americans wrote on Dec 20, 2007 6:32 PM:
" "A house divided against itself cannot stand". --Abraham Lincoln, June 16, 1858 "
shawn wrote on Dec 20, 2007 6:23 PM:
" Russell Means seems more concerned with maintaining a public spotlight than benefiting Indian communities. This will be an expensive, redundant legal battle. The seemingly diplomatic concept of reservations has only caused more legal and social problems as opposed to what happened to every other indigenous peoples who were conquered throughout the world - they were assimilated into the conquering culture. It's the same basic flaw behind the idea of reparations; why make those who had nothing to do with enslaving people pay those who were never enslaved? Imagine if everyone demanded compensation for all the wrongs done to their ancestors throughout time - it would be a circus, and it seems like Means is willing to be the ringleader. "
Ree wrote on Dec 20, 2007 6:18 PM:
" This whole issue is ridiculous. I am a mixed blood and harbor no hatred for any race, although I do absolutely despise racist idiots like Russell Means. Some of the posters on here have it right - we ALL arrived in this country from somewhere else. My Indian ancestors came to South Dakota many centuries before the Sioux ever set foot in South Dakota, but even my people were not the first ones here. If we are going to give the land back to the original owners, good luck, but I doubt you’ll be able to find who they were. Why don’t we do the right thing – divide the numbers of acres of reservation land by the number of enrolled tribal members, hand them the deed to their land and let them do whatever they want with it. We would all be better off and I’m certain our taxes would decrease accordingly. "
Confused in Michigan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 6:03 PM:
" I read the story about the Lakota tribe declaring independence and I thought it was the most newsworthy article of the day, if not the decade, yet I had to search for over twenty minutes to find any more mention of this. While I am in Michigan, not of Native American ancestry, I find this to be one of the most fascinating and newsworthy things I have heard in a long time. The fact that I had to search for more information (it was not mentioned on 3 national nightly news programs), and after reading the postings here, I am sadly coming to the realization that nothing will happen with this "declaration". After reading the postings and seeing "Sharpton" mentioned, my only impression is that it has as much credibility as anything that comes out of Rev. Jesse Jackson's mouth or Al Sharpton's mouth. 'Tis a shame. The idea of an Indian tribe declaring independence, occupying a center spot in the U.S. and actually making something of themselves is a fascinating thought and the things that could be accomplished are endless. It's funny, also from these postings it's obvious you would have a newly formed, self-ruled govenment that, from what I can read, would be just as corrupt as what we have sitting in Washington D.C. now. Again, 'tis a shame. I wish you the best for your future. "
It's time for equal treatment wrote on Dec 20, 2007 5:59 PM:
" Treat the Lakota just like any other American. No special treatment. Let them support themselves just like the rest of us. "
maii wrote on Dec 20, 2007 5:57 PM:
" im not suprised to see the comments on both sides of the issue. im lakota, but have not lived in sd for many years, and i now have the chance to see the turmoil brewing from the outside. on a visit to rapid city this past summer showed me the divide among the communities. no one on the westside of town would make eye contact with me, i didnt receive services as quickly at public locations, i was made to feel that i did not belong there. i see a sovereign nation being a possibility, but when is the question. and the "tax payers" that are so worried about their money, direct your hostility toward your own president. and you marines will defend "your" land, now i see a hostility toward your own neighbor. this article did bring out much discussion about tribal sovereignty, but it also show the racist bigotry of south dakota. "
Joseph Budd wrote on Dec 20, 2007 5:43 PM:
" Didn't Russell Means learn from the Wounded Knee episode, or from the Yellow Thunder Campground mistake? This is the 21st century, not the 17th century. He won't be able to turn all of the midwest into one giant reservation. That, and I'm sure if they challenge the entire matter in court, the judges would start tossing their lawsuits out of court, simply based on wild speculation. After all, the Lakota didn't own the land...they passed through it. "
THIS IS ANOTHER PUBLICITY STUNT BY RUSSELL wrote on Dec 20, 2007 5:41 PM:
" Well Russell can be the president of this sovereign nation!!!. I guess they can also provide for themselves and they can go to Boliva for support as well. This kind of stunt didnt do anything in 1973 and it wont change anything now. "
It is time to stand up! wrote on Dec 20, 2007 5:27 PM:
" Yes- the white man in this country need to stand up now! We are sick of hearing the Native Americans complain about how bad they have it. We white people don't get government assistance because we are part of the tribe. We go out find jobs, work hard and earn our own way. I have never, never in my live had a free handout from this great USA government that keeps giving to the Native Americans. They start complaining and our stupid government just keeps giving. Heck, I think the Natives have it fiqured out. It is time for the white people of this country to start doing what Russel Means and his people do. That is nothing, just live off free handouts. Russel Means don't know what work is! "
llamawalker wrote on Dec 20, 2007 5:18 PM:
" Make me an insturment of peace. Bring blessings in thought and tokens in hand and create the vision of our childrens future. Heart to heart the change is passed on one hand washing the other go with me pure in heart with gifts for these beautiful people the Lakota. raise up our voices in prayer we will see the vision of peace upheld by the courage of our childrens love. I am responsible for bringing joy to my brothers & sisters. and we continue "
Jeesh wrote on Dec 20, 2007 5:03 PM:
" There is a lot of racism alive here. It's a shame, the bad few of ALL races have to ruin it for the majority. WE ARE ALL HUMANS OF EARTH. By the way, folks, there are a lot of white people on welfare, too, you know. Oh, and I am white. But not on welfare. "
Judge not by the color of the skin but by the character of the heart wrote on Dec 20, 2007 4:34 PM:
" It is sad to see such ignorant comments made by such people as kumbyah, usa and all the others. This type of prejudice is still a lingering darkness that exists in SD and Rapid City. I am sure from the ignorant comments that as a native woman I make a lot more money and also pay alot more taxes then they do. There is a new hope in this native generation because there are more natives becoming very educated. Maybe these ignorant people who posted comments should pick up a book and become educated on how to be "worldly" becuase the world we live in is full of a variety of wonderful colored races. If they actually traveled outside the midwest they would realize they are no longer the majority. Russel may not be Martin Luther King but he is an activist for fairness and for rights. By the way, many companies that take from the rez do not return the monie to where it rightfully belongs. If this had not been happening for so many years then maybe we would also have a socioeconomic structure to work from. "
CLC wrote on Dec 20, 2007 4:31 PM:
" It's funny how these guys are quick to want to make a decision thats for all of US,but yet they can't even change themselves or help their people.Before you try going public and getting attention,do something for yourself and the other on the reservation.Quit cheating the Tribal government(embezzlement),pick up the garbage,take the time out to listen to the youth & realize their the future,quit ALWAYS bringing up the white people like their the ones who caused the reservation life to be the way it is and how you live your lives is their fault.TAKE RESPONSIBILITY!!!.Yea I am from Pine Ridge,I don't live there because I MADE a better life for myself and knew I deserved more.So before Russell Means thought about his people;just know he thought about PUBLICITY FIRST!!!! "
Peace wrote on Dec 20, 2007 4:24 PM:
" Peace to all. This proclimation means nothing and will result in nothing. Don't beat your neighbor down over the self promotion of a bigoted activist. "
wakangli awanyanka wrote on Dec 20, 2007 4:15 PM:
" what is funny here is that the whites think this is in reference to claiming reservation land; this is about 1868 treaty territory and the land these mouthy wasicuns are standing on is in it. "What will the lazy indians do with their country?" Well, they could reopen the second largest gold mine on the planet, and would be quite a military force with that newly aquired Ellsworth set-up. Maybe unpack the Minutemans to fight the Bushian Empire. "
che wrote on Dec 20, 2007 4:13 PM:
" Finally America can quit paying them money .and being a sovereign nation let them generate monies for there hospitals there schools and every thing that the goverment now pays.Finally Means is doing something good.let them go on there own and see how it feels without the government gravytrain. "
WOW wrote on Dec 20, 2007 4:06 PM:
" So you have claimed sovereign nation status, great now you can pay your own way and not the HARD working people of the much bigger nation around you. yes the one with the greatest millitary power in the world. go ahead claim your sovereign nation status. then we the nation that surronds you will put up a fence on the land you claim as yours to keep you off OUR land. hmmm sounds like we have part of mexico in SD. just remember our nation can lay waste to yours with 1/10th of our military strength. what a bunch of wannabees "
Tired of hearing poor me wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:56 PM:
" Heres an idea, maybe we should just do away with the reservations, do away with all the gov aid for the reservations. everyone can go out and get a job to survive, like I had to do. my people are a proud people but i don't sit back and keep asking for more handouts, separate rules. it is soon to be 2008 maybe instead of separating them selves from the usa they should try to contribute to the usa. They do live here. I also agree, if we are to be held responsible for out ancestors acts, maybe they should too. "
Beanie wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:54 PM:
" One good thing about Uncle Russ. He can stir up dis-gust-tion! At least he got the people thinking about the Black Hills and Treaty issues again. Even our local tribal politiciains keep dropping the ball by not talking about the responsibility of the U.S. government because they are afraid Uncle Sam will slap their hands and tell them NO! "
Kaboom wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:50 PM:
" Sorry all you race baiters. Man is not indigenous to North America. Each and every tribe came from some place else. Some from Europe, some from Africa, others from across the Bering Sea Land Bridge. We are all "settlers" no matter your version of history or the color of your skin. Live in peace or go away! "
Some white guy wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:49 PM:
" Mr Means is a trouble maker who is trying to stir up the pot. He is no different than the Rev Al Sharpton. I try not to be bigoted here, but when I am reading posts on here from American Indians slamming people of European decent, when you do that stuff I cannot feel sorry for your struggles. 80% unemployment on the res? Get a job and then you won't have to live off of those white "settlers". Your people need to stop living in the past. BTW, why call yourselves "Native Americans"? I was born in Chicago which last time I checked it was still in America. Guess that makes me a Native American too. "
concern wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:45 PM:
" Where will the monies come from to support this if there are no taxes and the United States of America no longer sends them money from the treaties they just cancelled? "
1776 wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:38 PM:
" Check your history. The Sioux actual came to the plains from the east along with the settlers. If we are going to this correctly, we need to turn the land over to the inhabiting tribe(s)prior to the Sioux. I would assume the Sioux would then do the honorable thing and pay restitution to that tribe? Sorry folks, you can't pick and chose your history. "
Think About It! wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:38 PM:
" Well, I find it intriging that "Russell" makes an appearance...within a matter of days of the historical Wounded Knee Battle.....I'm all for celebrating our "roots", however I think Russell goes to the extreme....sad really, that he needs all the attention......... "
Here to Stay wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:35 PM:
" I was born here and I'm here to stay as will my children's children. I'm not certain what Means expects this to accomplish, but to fantasize about a white mass exodus from the Black Hills shows how misled the native people have been. "
To: deminn wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:32 PM:
" You haven't taken anything back and I doubt you will. However; if this symbolic act makes you feel as if you've won something, then more power to you. "
Red wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:29 PM:
" These last eight years have been like living the '60s and '70s all over again. Even bell bottoms and hip huggers came back around! Power to the people? Right on! "
Misdirection wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:29 PM:
" Don't look now, but while us poor whites and natives take it out on each other, our greedy leadership sneaks away with pockets full of cash. Discord is exactly what they want and you're all playing into their hands. I have no issue with my native neighber and I suspect most of my native neighbors have no issue with me. "
James wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:28 PM:
" I say we mone in on the LNI and ask to see passports on all the kids from the REZ. Hey, they are here illegaly now. "
Native wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:27 PM:
" I personally get tired of hearing about what the US owes the sioux's. I am an enrolled member of a sioux tribe but because my children and I don't live on the reservation we don't quilify for any kind of funds that go to the 'tribal' members. when do we enrolled tribal members get what the tribe owes us. we're included on their census, I'm sure? Give me a break. It's always something. "
poisonpen wrote on Dec 20, 2007 3:00 PM:
" The tribes in Oklahoma are owed billions in oil revenues. The BIA said they cant't disperse the money because the records of ownership were eaten by rats. Yes, they really said that. No one gives the Native Americans anything. It's their money and it's all in trust...and a trust is designed to screw the beneficiaries. "
joe18pak wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:43 PM:
" Well, Russell's at it again. He ran for tribal president and LOST!! So he doesn't really represent anyone but his own ego. I lost all respect for Means when he went to Boulder and stood up for that wannabe fraud ward churchill!!! You know the most dangerous place in the world is to be between russ and a T.V. camera! "
kumbaya wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:41 PM:
" well since the LAKOTA people stole the land from the COMANCHE people, and they in turn had stolen it from the OSAGE people who in turn had stolen it from someone else, who does the land revert too? now, let's see how well your tribe does without all the money from the government that you don't earn but get to spend. "
Atlas Moth wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:39 PM:
" Hey, Joe Taxpayer: You're a moron. If you do a little bit of research, you would find that Native Americans are typically getting a much shorter end of the stick than the average American taxpayer. When AIM occupied the BIA building back the 1970's, they found a ton of paperwork documenting exploitive contracts for mineral, timber, etc. on Native lands. The theft from Native Americans continues to this day. "
Dana Scipio wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:36 PM:
" It is sad that the Native Americans lost their lands. One question, Why now declare this sovereign nation stuff now? They could have done this years ago. I do not see any benefits from this action. They will, if successful lose many of the grants and benefits that they receive from the U.S. Government. They will lose more than they gain! I say that they should work on improving their lives and the lands that they do have, instead of ditzing around D.C. declaring independence. And that's What I Think...Wow. "
Ridge Runner wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:33 PM:
" Lets look at this situation. If Russ and his group didn't speak up, I don't think anyone else would. We Lakota need to support one another and ourselves. I am not saying to follow or support Russell Means, I am saying to stand up for each other. We are a different nation, we still have our values, beliefs, our pride and no one can take that away. Reading all the racist comments the RC Journal editor seems to over look, makes me feel even more sovereign. My question to the Lakota is what do we have left? is it in our best interest to stand up for ourselves? The white people believe we all recieve everything for free. My question to all others, how hard is it to read a history book or maybe Article 1 of the US Constitution? Please EDUCATE yourself be for posting such hatred and racism. With all that energy you have, look into why the richest nation in world can't provide health care for you. You see your government does't even care for you either. "
Wait when did I become an immigrant? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:28 PM:
" I'm born and raised here so why should it suddenly become my fault for anything that happened to the native Americans.As far as I look at it we are all native.I was born here weren't you? It's obvious many of you have never taken a trip to the rez.When you see people tearing apart the goverment provided mobile homes for the copper just to have some beer money just because they spent their generous goverment check(way more than i make for ACTUALLY working).So you tell me . "
to Jim in WI wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:26 PM:
" glad you're there and NOT here in SD....turn WI into another CA , not SD "
Russell Means Who? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:21 PM:
" Why is Means running around the country with this bunch of lawyers and other leaders telling the country what the Lakota people want. I am not sure he has actually asked them for their opinion, he just thinks everyone thinks like him I guess. I for one would be pleased if the Indians all took control of their reservations and all land and property therein for 1 year with no federal help to see if they could make a profitable go of it without govt help. I highly doubt it... The govt has bent over backwards and forwards and given these people more than any losers of any war in the history of the world. They were beat and taken out of power but yet we have supported them for decades..This needs to stop for sure....Get er done... No more federal money/health care/checks or anything else and lets go a year and see how ya all are doing in one calender year.... I think we all know the answer to that.. It would be a terrible mess, worse than in the 1800s because as a people they are more helpless today than ever....very sad "
Re: acoupleofthings wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:21 PM:
" Farmers are still part of the United States, and do not wish to have nothing to do with our government of laws, etc. "
SW wrote on Dec 20, 2007 2:12 PM:
" To Laura Ross - I dont hate poor people, nor do I hate Native people. I do, however, have a problem with LAZY people. Everyone can do some sort of job to be a productive member of society. Instead, we have coddled, hugged and sang "Kum Bah Ya" for too long. Now, we have a crumbling infastructure, enormous debt and are seeing the end of social security. Our tax dollars, originally set for these privileges, are being given away in the form of "Welfare." "
Ignorance wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:50 PM:
" Yet another perfect example of how a story can bring out all the hatred, negativity, and ignorance on BOTH sides of the aisle. All this ridiculous talk about how the 'white man' did this and the natives did this is not going to solve anything. What's even more ridiculous is that Means represents a very, very small minority of Lakota, and it is his hope to bring out fear and hatred in the Lakota community to serve his own agenda (and unfortunately it appears to be working). Let's ALL take some self responsibility and work together to move forward, and stop blaming all of these ancestor's great-grandchildren on injustices that they had absolutely no part in! "
deminn wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:48 PM:
" If only the rest of the people of the United States had these kinds of kahunas to take the country back from the Crown Party, that would be something too. Nice demonstration for those who have forgotten what reality looks like. "
Anonymous, SD wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:27 PM:
" Another thing - my family (parents, grandparents, great grandparents) are life long residents of a South Dakota reservation, but are not tribal members, although many are intermarried. What I see in this community is that the divide is not between 'white' and 'native' but between those who are working for the good of the community and those who are not. There are many tribal and non-tribal members working hard in all the businesses and schools on this little reservation to create a more positive world for our collective children - people should focus their energy on bringing people together, not tearing communities apart. Also, my family does have a small farm and let me tell you, there are much bigger fish to fry than small-time south dakota famers who struggle along with everyone else to just get by day to day. And whatever so-called profit we might get from a few cows is spent right back into the community, so it would be an act of stupidity to try and shut down all the small businness, agricultural and otherwise on our reservations, just because they may be run my a non-tribal member. "
Hey Laura wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:24 PM:
" Defending one's own heratige is not racism. I'm sorry that guilt has forced you to feel shame of yours. "
To: Laura Ross wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:23 PM:
" Apparently you turn a blind eye to the hate filled comments by the native posters. Shame on us whites for posting a rebuttel to such obvious hatred and racism. Your blindness is also a BIG part of the problem. "
capital wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:20 PM:
" Thanks for posting my comments RCJ. Here is another. The argument I see being made here is that the settlers possess the land by right of force. At the same time, these same people whine around about immigrants coming to the land and ignoring the law, thereby taking the land by force. A double standard but what can you expect from a bunch of settlers who know nothing about history and their heritage of thievery. "
Leaders? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:19 PM:
" Thurman, Sharpton, Means; all false leaders who profit from dividing the races. I believe the educated and open minded of all races see this for what it is; a laughable publicity stunt. "
Open Hatred wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:04 PM:
" Wow - I can honestly say I have not, since the Chicago riots of the 1960's, read such blatantly racist statements as I see posted here. It's true that schools in my day did not teach the truth of what happened to tribes throughout the U.S., but that truth has been exposed. It is a provable reality. I suppose you who decry the rights of tribes to seek some sort of recompense for their suffering and loss also believe the Holocaust was a story made up by hateful Jewish people. America is truly an island to itself but with much of the population so far out of touch with reality I am actually frightened. And I would bet all of you so righteous about defending your property are "good Christians" as well. I would urge you to live what you preach or at least show your true face. Shame on all of you. "
Typical wrote on Dec 20, 2007 1:01 PM:
" Just another display of hatred towards non-natives. This declaration is simply symbolic. It has no teeth and no merit. Don't let it ruin your lunch. "
No Immigrant wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:59 PM:
" I was born here an therefore am no immigrant. My right to this land is as valid as any native. Live with me as a neighbor or live against me as an enemy, but I am here to stay. "
Pierre wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:53 PM:
" The 9 Reservation in our State Are 9 independent Nations already.They all have thier own constitutions,ect..The land mass if you take the 9 reservations and combine would be bigger than the state of Maryland. Lower Brule with the same Tribal Leader for 20+ years seams to be doing a great job, very little fighting in house,largest producer of popcorn in the U.S.,great hunting and fishing,cattle herd growing. Even Means had the SENSE to make sure his kids did well in school,his duaghter was not on bueatifull but very intelligent.We can only blame myself for where I am at today. "
Kevin wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:50 PM:
" I think this is great! I feel the Native American people have been down trodden and abused for entirely too long...heck one day in this world was too long...glad to see they are asserting themselves as a people!!! The treaties that were signed have been given little merit by the U.S. government, so why continue to acknowledge them as Native Americans. Good for you Lakota people...may Creator watch over all of you. Sincerely, MixedBlood "
Laura Ross wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:49 PM:
" Though never a surprise anymore I'm always deeply saddened by so many ignorant, racist and inhuman remarks that get posted to news items re First Nations peoples at the RCJ. Sometimes I wonder if the verbiage throwers hate all poor people or do they reserve their Sunday finest only for Native folks? If you're not part of the solution you're part of the problem. From I can see, there are problems galore in SD hungry for solutions. "
Lauren wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:45 PM:
" I am fully supportive of the reservations becomming sovergin nations, as long as they are treated like every other nation-they have their own security and support systems, emoloyment, healthcare systems and everything. It's so frusterating to see Native Americans that make more money from the government NOT working then I do working a 60 hour week!! I am sick to death of hearing how the white man stole their land over 100 years ago-if it's so upsetting to you, then why don't you work to ensure that you and your children and peers devlop into a stong culture that is well educated and respected instead of sitting on your behind and complaining because your welfare check isn't enough. Yes, it sucks that the first settlers of the west took your land, but let's at least try to find a solution as the cultured, proud and educated people that you claim to be. "
Samap wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:41 PM:
" I say no guest-workers or immunity for the illegal immigrants living on Lakota lands. Send them all back where they came from. More seriously though, I wish them luck. It takes tremendous courage to stand up to an oppressor. Americans have been quick to damn Iraq's treatment of the Kurds and Israel's treatment of Palestine. It is good they be reminded of their own shame and that their government has done the same to the indigenous people of this land. I wish the Cherokee nation had the courage to stand with Lakota but from what I've seen, they are gone. :( "
treason wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:41 PM:
" these are traitors and are guilty of treason during wartime, a crime punishable by death. "
more problems... wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:35 PM:
" I think Russel Means is just going to cause more problems for the Lakota (as if we don't have enough problems) and disappear again. Personally, my tribe has never helped me with anything, no loans, no assistance of any kind, and I also can't get any kind of assistance from anywhere in RC either. "
Born in the U.S.A. wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:33 PM:
" My ancestors came to the States after all the treaties had been signed. Where does this leave me? Am I lumped in with all whites? Am I going to be deported? As I understand, it was go to the reservation or be killed. Our Government is not and never was perfect. To keep living in the past will never move "your" people forward and only keeps the rift between whites and Indians alive and growing. It is only a matter of time and white will be a minority and you can fight with the Mexicans, Latinos for your pride. "
I want mine too! wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:32 PM:
" The article quotes about the land that "the group say have been illegally homesteaded for years despite knowledge of Lakota as the historic owners." I guess I want mine back too. I apparently have a chunk of Ireland and Belgium coming to me as "my people" are the "historic owners" of those pieces of land. C'mon, there have been thousands of races subjugated over thousands of years. It is one of the imperfections of the human race that they gotta go conquer somebody. Move on to a legitimate means of helping your people, not by a stunt that will in the end have no effect. "
Jim in WI wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:32 PM:
" Why are all these voices quiet when our incompetent leadership in Washington is squandering America's resources in Iraq to support Bush's illegal war of aggression? This miserable excuse for a president and his cronies have already wasted over half a trillion $'s to the benefit of his corporate handlers including the oil companies and Halliburton/KBR all without any accountability. Over the years, our government has failed to honor any treaty with native Americans and repeatedly relocated them from one area to another without any compensation. The Lakota people on Pine Ridge and other reservations deserve a better standard of living and I as a taxpayer would prefer to see my taxes go to improving their lives than be wasted on Bush's Iraq war. The $500 billion being spent in Iraq would be better spent in America to help all Americans. "
sovereign nation = YES... wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:31 PM:
" for Indians = no more of our tax $ to them ! "
acoupleofthings wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:29 PM:
" IN RESPONCE TO $$$$$, RYAN, AND ALL OF THE REST. DOES THIS MEAN YOU WANT TO CUT FUNDING TO FARMERS TOO? HOW WOULD THE FARMERS AND RANCHERS SURVIVE WITHOUT THE SUBSIDIES. ONLY AN IDOIT WOULD MAKE THIS KIND OF ARGUMENT. ON THE OTHER HAND I HAVE NEVER BEEN A SUPORTER OF RUSS. IT LOOKS LIKE ANOTHER ATTENTION GETTING SCHEME THAT LACKS PLANNING AND ANY REAL SUPORT FROM THE NATIVE PEOPLE. SO MY QUESTION FOR RUSSEL- WHY NOT ASK THE PEOPLE BEFORE YOU SPEAK FOR THEM. "
Western1 wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:28 PM:
" Omigod. This is great! I wish them every possible success. "
Did the article say withdraw? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:27 PM:
" So if you withdraw from a treaty that pretty much makes the treaty null and void right? So.......no more claims about what you have coming then right? "
Ducheneaux wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:17 PM:
" This is another example of a publicity stunt on behalf of Russell Means. Instead of trying to form a separate sovereign entity, we as Indians should pool our resources in a cooperative force against such issues as land and mineral rights, gaming, and tribal jurisdiction issues. In order to more affective in the fight against the federal government. In other words, if tribes initiate a plan at the state level first their plan will be a lot more affective than this Crazy guys shenanigans.... ooops.... I forgot our Governor is Mike Rounds. "
RE:mark godfrey wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:15 PM:
" Why is any financial support needed for the Lakota or any tribe? Millions of people of all nationalities manage to live above the poverty without government assistance. If the Lakota are able to financially support themselves by breaking ties with the US, why is there need for financial support to begin with? "
Ojibwe warrior wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:13 PM:
" I AM WITH YOU MY BROTHERS & SISTERS! "
Pasquale S. Fortunato wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:12 PM:
" There were treaties! Why were they broken? Can someone explain this fact? Those who mention the U.S.gov't's 'generosity'should be able to explain the situation on the reservations: the suicide rate among adolescents is 150 times the national average; an infant mortality rate five times the national average; and at times an 80% unemployment rate; oh, yes, the Indians should also thank us for the severe diabetes epidemic and alcoholism among their people. No insults, please: just facts! Thank you! "
ducheneaux wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:07 PM:
" This is another example of a publicity stunt on behalf of Russell Means. Instead of trying to form a separate sovereign entity, we as Indians should pool our resources in a cooperative force against such issues as land and mineral rights, gaming, and tribal jurisdiction issues. In order to more affective in the fight against the federal government. In other words, if tribes initiate a plan at the state level first their plan will be a lot more affective than this Crazy guys shenanigans.... ooops.... I forgot our Governor is Mike Rounds. "
Fooled wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:06 PM:
" Don't be fooled into thinking this has anything to do with the well being of the lakota people. This is Russell Means method of exacting his hatred towards whites. I wonder if the Lakota people are comfortable with a bigot sacrificing their lives to satisfy a vendeta? "
Best of the Best wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:06 PM:
" Wow. This story sure brought out the best in people. Glad to see the love for one another is as strong as ever. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to whatever tax bracket you belong!!! "
to Concerned Lakota Winyan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 12:01 PM:
" You were already here?? So what you are saying is that your people did not come from somewhere else, they were the first people here and the first people to ever live on the land that the US government took? I strongly suspect that your tribe took the land from another tribe who took the land from an earlier tribe, and so on and so on. This is 2007, you are not going to get the Black Hills back and frankly, they were not your when they were taken. "
Ista Sapa wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:58 AM:
" Typical South Dakota blowhards with no knowledge of history. Do a little research before making any comments concerning our tax-payers money. The Lakota Nation budget is nothing compared to the billions of dollars in natural resources taking off of our land. and by the way we taxpayers pay plenty to clothe and feed the poor white man so get an education and get smart on the issues that plague Indian country before making any remarks concerning "our" taxpayers money. "
Anonymous, SD wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:55 AM:
" I support Native American sovereignty, in terms of Native peoples being able to determine their own political destiny and having control over their resources, but Native groups in South Dakota are incredibly dependent on government resources for basic survival. It seems that withdrawing or negating treaties would also mean the withdrawl of all state and federal support and government programs. As a life long resident of a South Dakota reservation I see the brutal truth, which is that tribes are struggling to administer even the most basic social service programs to their people (without corruption) and have a long long road of hard work ahead of them before they could operate without government support. It would be wonderful the day that tribes could operate as completely autonomous entities, but this group of radicals needs to make sure it doesn't compromise the basic needs of the people along the way. "
I'm for it wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:54 AM:
" Hopefully the new country will have a work week that's less than 40 hours. Maybe 35 days vacation a year too. Maybe I wouldn't have to work at all. It would be like a having a mini-Europe right here in the Dakotas. I think that would be great. Someone needs to post information on how to become a member. Semper fi kumbaya. "
mark godfrey wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:43 AM:
" @So this money doesn't have to be spent then? $120,320 ?!? LOL, no you can keep that ridiculous, pitiful amount. As a soveriegn entity the Lakota will make that in the first 5 minutes. The USA just spent over $500,000 for the "Sparta Teapot Museum" in Sparta, N.C. I don't think any of the posters on this thread realize how little we give the Native-Americans. That's why they are in poverty, you geniuses. "
kumbaya wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:32 AM:
" as a proud descendant of western european ancestory, I too would like to advise that I am very proud of my heritage and will stand with "all is fair" to defend my righteously purchsed property. and believe me, as a retired marine, I CAN defend it. "
Pierre wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:31 AM:
" We are all americans,does it do anybody any good to live in the past. When the Sioux drove and buchered the Pawnee,Arikara,Blackfeet,Crow, ect.. from the plains what compensation did they get? The only way I feel we continue to improve our respect for all races is to forgive one another for past sins,and none of us were at the Council of Horse Creek to begin with. I stuggle to understand"continue to take land,water,children and people?". In our state the tribes are buying land,we are in a drought, and if someone is stealing children or people I have not read that anywhere.I go back to Crazy Horses vision" our real enemy lives in our own camp" could this be Means? "
capital wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:26 AM:
" This is good news. As is typical, the descendants of thieves refuse to give back their stolen goods. Let's be honest here, all of you crying about taxes make your money off of stolen land and resources. That is your legacy -thievery and murder. I know it is hard to swallow that pill but swallow it you must. Here is a fair trade. You will no longer be required to pay taxes-a mere fraction of what you earn- and in return, you must relinquish all the stolen land. Sounds like a fair trade to me. (Let's see if the Rapid City Journal will allow this to post since they've posted numerous comments from the settlers) "
So this money doesn't have to be spent then? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:18 AM:
" The tribe's Parks and Recreation Authority has been awarded a $120,320 grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation to help tribal officials begin a program to establish a scenic-byways system on the reservation, a starkly beautiful landscape of sweeping grasslands, rugged badlands and sporadic woods of pine and cedar covering all of Shannon County and half of Jackson County. "
$$$$$ wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:17 AM:
" cut ALL $ funding to all tribes/reservations/indians NOW !!! "
RE: mark godfrey wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:16 AM:
" Wow, your smart, this is The United States of America, if you don't like it, leave, please. It took you this long to realize you have been defeated? If this was any other Nation, it would have been genocide, there would be no reservations or Native Americans left. What would have Hitler or Stalin done with the Natives? Just wondering.... "
NOT PC wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:11 AM:
" The Lakota or any other Indian group for that matter, have no more of a claim to any land in this country than any of us. The Indians had wars with eachother and took eachothers land before the Europeans arrived and took their. The real problem with Indians, like blacks, is that they keep holding onto the past when they need to spending their energy building for the future. Africans enslaved their people long before Europeans went over and enslaved them here. It's part of the past, get over it and move on people. It's the only way things will get better for your people. The past should tell you this but you refuse to learn and this is why things are not getting better for your people. "
mark godfrey wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:08 AM:
" @All's fair in love and war!!! You should be proud sir, of being Anglo-Saxon. However, that means your are from Europe and are an immigrant here in the USA. Luckily America is kind to immigrants, even ones who post thinly-veiled threats involving weaponary. "
Stop Bush wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:06 AM:
" Native Americans have put up with having their culture all but destroyed for many years, seeing how the alternative that was once the United States of America was a good place to live. Now that Bush has replaced the constitution with the Patriot Act and illegal wiretapping for everyone, and dragged the country into several illegal wars for no reason, it makes perfect sense that they rethink it all. Unlike the good old USA, The Empire of Bushmerica is not a good place to live, and the old Lakota ways are a lot better. Congrats to the Lakota people for realizing this, and getting out before Bush makes it a capital crime to critizise him. "
RE: Concerned Lakota Winyan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:06 AM:
" So how can it be fixed? "
RE: pine-ridger wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:03 AM:
" Put your peace pipe down brother, if you haven't noticed Means is out for only himself...always has been a leach on our tribes. "
Joe Taxpayer wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:03 AM:
" If this passes I say, "So Be It." I will watch for my taxes to reduce right away because not supporting this many people has to free up money that I can certainly use myself. I work hard - 2 jobs - and I'm very tired of paying the bills of others when I have trouble making ends meet myself. I hope the goverment converts the energy assistance and welfare programs into something accessible to the tax paying citizens who foot the bill. "
Questions... wrote on Dec 20, 2007 11:00 AM:
" I'm intrigued. Will there be new maps? Am I now an illegal alien? Will I be deported to Europe? (God, I hope so. It's so much better over there.) Will the Indians put up walls? Have their own currency? Will they speak Lakotan? What will their major exports be? Will there be a revolution? Will I be drafted to re-fight the Battle of the Little Bighorn? Since the Indians don't wish to be merely a "facsimile of whites," will they go back to living in teepees, or is there some visionary Native American version of Howard Roark who will conceive of all new living spaces? Will the Indians take posession of the missile silos? This is going to be cool. Or really sucky. I can't decide which. "
russel beans! wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:59 AM:
" russel beans should stick to doing voice overs for cartoons because that what he is looney tuney!!! Russel does things for only one person, himself!!! This goes out to $$$: Imagine the Pine Ridge Reservation being a truely sovereign nation. What do you think other countries would pay to set up shop on the Rez? We could have unlimited gambling,which would make Deadwood look like the DAV bingo nights and pancake breakfast, and last but definitely not least we could host The Cannabis Cup !!!! Yeah baby!!! During the Sturgis Rally we would have more bikers than the Rally!!! We could be a filthy rich little country if we were truely sovereign and well governed. So put that in your pipe ,$$$, and puff on it!!! We will be better off that we are now!!! Plus learn how to spell before you try to be cute in a public forum sucka!!! "
Whaaaa? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:56 AM:
" Since when is Russell Means a "tribal leader"? Did I go to sleep and wake up in 1973? "
Bob wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:55 AM:
" I applaud the Lakota Indians,I have seen firsthand what broken treaties has wrought. "
Marko Maglich, immigration lawyer wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:55 AM:
" It will be interesting to research and advise on how to renounce U.S. citizenship so that one can qualify for Lakota citizenship. "
Lee wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:54 AM:
" IF this is what the Lakota Nation wants, let it happen. The hundreds of millions of dollars that is currently paid out can be utilized somewhere else. Being a soverign nation, I would suggest the state of South Dakota set up toll roads leading off of the soverign nation, onto our state. That way the state can recover some of the fuel tax money that was taken away illegaly by the tribal government. "
an whte guy wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:52 AM:
" We are presently giving more money to the Iraq government than we have given to all Indian Nations over the last ten Years. Even if they are sovereign we apparently can still afford to them support, even more than we are now. "
Jordan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:52 AM:
" This is absurd. I highly doubt any sort of people could survive without government assistance. Public schools, utilities, road maintenance, Indian tax benefits...GONE! I hope the US government would allow them to secede, only because it would be mildly fulfilling to watch them come crawling back. It isn't the 1800's anymore. The tribes will have to do a little better than just tobacco shops and casinos. "
confusednative wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:52 AM:
" Ah, so if this very group wants to ceased all ties to the US Government, doesn't it means that many of the people cannot get any financial help from them? We are going to have to say "Bye, Bye" to any financial help. "
Waldo wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:49 AM:
" Sounds good to me. And of course, the money and aid that the U.S. Government supplies needs to be cut off also, thereby saving the taxpayers money used to pay the tribes. What a concept and Merry Christmas to all.... "
Up is down and down is up! wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:45 AM:
" Oh boy what a day for the taxpayers! That sucking sound may be a new ploy to get more money from the system? "
mark godfrey wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:44 AM:
" This was long due to happen. When I saw video of a helicopter raid by the DEA onto newly-planted Native-American hemp fields (which all countries in the world grow, except the reactionary and backwards USA) I realized that the Native-American's land wasn't Native-American land at all. America failed to honor yet another treaty, not the other way around. "
Andy wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:42 AM:
" Wow! "
curious wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:40 AM:
" Why would the Lakota Nation allow Means' fanatical voice to speak for them? He is making the tribe look like idiots and they are not. "
On second thought wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:37 AM:
" My first thought was,"OK, no more money for you." The problem is that this is just a group of people with no authority to speak for the Lakota people. If a bunch of white supremacists announced that South Dakota is now a blah blah blah, it would mean nothing. Let's not blame the people for have a few blowhards. They come in all colors. "
njd wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:36 AM:
" This is the most idiodic thing I have heard this week. Well, that should help the state of the United State's budget problems. And if you are going to put a lien on my 50X150 foot lot, so be it. "
Craig wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:36 AM:
" It's about time that the ducks were all in a row. "
Agreed wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:35 AM:
" Totally agreed - all "US" money to the reservations should stop NOW! "
Lakota Woman wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:28 AM:
" Do any of these people even live on the reservation? Do they truly know how it is to live here? Maybe they should talk to ALL the lakota people FIRST before they make decisions for ALL OF US. "
Clueless wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:28 AM:
" The Indian Nation will soon find that with no federal assistance and the squandering of all that has been given to them in the past will lead to a complete disaster. No infrastructure, jobs or plan. Yeah that will work...NOT Sounds like the cart before the horse to me. "
kirk wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:22 AM:
" no tribes have joined this crackpot called means "
All's fair in love and war!!! wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:22 AM:
" Since it seems to be socially acceptable for the natives to take pride in their culture. I would like to express MY PRIDE in being a ANGLO-SAXON!!! I am VERY,VERY proud of my heritage and am ready to bear arms against any enemy, both foreign, or domestic. "
JB wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:22 AM:
" I thought treaty issues were part of the problem. If they withdraw from the treaty agreements then wouldn't they be null and void? "
Fred Hambrecht wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:20 AM:
" I certainly understand the aim, what concerns me is the Polly Annish approach. The reservations have long depended on federal programs, one assumes that these will be abandoned. That being the case and statements made that there will be no taxes, how will the enterprise be self sustaining? "
no more checks wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:17 AM:
" Yes each one is it's own sovereign nation. And the US gov't supports them just like they do in Iraq. We continue to hand out money to make things move along. So if they want to make a fight out of this I see no problem in taking away federal money from the tribes. I can also drive around all the tribal lands on road trips. I can stop doing work on reservations. I can do alot if they want to make their own passports and become a nation, I for one wouldn't get a passport just to travel on a reservation. But then I would like to see a bigger presence of border patrol to keep even more illegals from entering the US. I see it as they are cutting off their nose to spite the face. What will they be crying about when federal funds are taken away. "
Cheryl wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:17 AM:
" Bravo tot he Lakota people! You have my full support. I wish I qualified to apply for amnesty! With regard to Ryan's comment, it is not the Lakota who will become "illegals" - it is the decendants of the Europeans who illegally took Lakota land in the first place. Bring it on indeed. "
Kaboom wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:16 AM:
" Thanks, Russell, for once again violating the Ft. Laramie Treaty of 1868. Any claim you and your followers might have had for the Black Hills, or financial compensation for their "taking," has been defaulted. Enjoy your stay with Hugo. I suspect it will be a very long one. "
Capt. Obvious wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:12 AM:
" GREAT! Problem solved...No more free money for the natives or any other person unless they are physically unable to work...and that 'Means' less money taken out of my paycheck every two weeks. wooohooo! This is a win-win situation as I see it! Merry Christmas to US, Russ! "
Two Bulls wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:11 AM:
" Yuk - yuk - yuk. Russell is at it again. Media attention. What real govermental positions does he or the others hold that give them the right to speak for the Lakota Nation? This is nothing more than the same old Russell Means b/s. "
wondering? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:11 AM:
" is that darn Russell Means at it again? I wish his acting carreer had worked out better for him. I really wish we had more believeable representation and more realistic ideas. "
Guilty by association? wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:11 AM:
" It would mean more if this came from the Native American community. It seems like it's just another PR move by Mr. Means. Isn't he the same dude that ran for President of the United States with America's first pornographer, Mr. Larry Flint? How much credibility can we give to Mr. Means if we look at the circle around him? "
Concerned Lakota Winyan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:08 AM:
" Yes, We are the only ones that can help ourselves... but we are not or will we ever be ILLEGAL! Look back at your ancestry, we didn't come over here on the Mayflower to rape and pillage. We were ALREADY here. And yes, Mr. Means and his followers may be stating the obvious, it is because the Government continues to break treaties and ignore our people's rights. So, please, form your opinions wisely rather than jump to stereotypical conclusions. The Lakota are not the only nation that is suffering. "
That's right, no more money wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:07 AM:
" Fine, go ahead and become a sovereign nation(which you already claim that you are). That would great if my hard earned money went elsewhere anyway! Mr. Means is nothing more than a person who likes to shake things up, he just needs to go back to parking his "broken down" truck by White Clay again and continue with his worthless alcohol boycotts. "
Ista Sapa wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:07 AM:
" It's very unfortunate that the media is portraying this as if this is the Lakota Tribe as a whole. It is coming from a few individuals and not the tribe in general. Last I heard John Steele was the president and it is him who speaks for us. "
Okay ... wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:07 AM:
" Lets stop all financial, state and federal aid these people and see how long this lasts. I also am in agreeance with "Majority"; is this the way the majority wants to handle this issue? Judging by Mr. Means past, I would venture to say he's just running his mouth to attract attention. Hopefully common sense and decency will prevail over hot-headedness, and this will come to a peacefull resolution. "
Rob Haan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:02 AM:
" This is a very good thing, now they do not need any welfare, health care, or anything else. Russel Means just saved the federal goverment almost a $100,000,000 a year. Now a fence needs to be built around the reservation and they can be deported back to the reservation. "
Foresight wrote on Dec 20, 2007 10:01 AM:
" There are so many possibilities for making money as a new nation. You're just not thinking it through. "
Truth wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:59 AM:
" Maybe the USA should do what needs to be done. Take these lands away, give them all a monthly check for a few years or let them stand on their own. Most of these places are trashed anyway maybe if the government stepped in added law enforcement that isn't corrupt and took actions to help these people then there wouldn't be a problem. Russell Means is a joke, he is just in it for the publicity. Liens, etc. What a joke. If the people were giving some decent chances and then made to own up when they screw up then there would be real change. "
pine-ridger wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:58 AM:
" Kudos to Russel and his delegation. Where do I sign up? Hey Russel we need you here on the Pine Ridge to fix the tribe. It's broken and we need a leader like you to lead us in finding solutions to repair our homeland. I voted for you in the past I hope you run again. "
Majority wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:54 AM:
" Is this a majority of the tribe that wants this or just a few? "
$$$ wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:53 AM:
" Does this mean that no more US finical assistance? How could the reservations survive? "
Itsjustmyopinion wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:52 AM:
" I thought the Lakota people were already a sovereign nation. Why do Means and his followers have to restate the OBVIOUS? "
Ryan wrote on Dec 20, 2007 9:42 AM:
" STOP ALL MONIES TO THE RESERVATIONS NOW!!! The only people that can help the natives are the natives. maybe we can go to war with them again. So does that mean all Natives will become illegals..YEAH!!!! BRIG IT ON!!! "
Link to 534 comments: http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/articles/2007/12/20/news/local/doc476a99...
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Fiona Caroline Cristian 012 547 5576 81376 ANZBAU3M |
The Cristian family and The Love for Life Campaign are apolitical, non-religious, non-violent, anti weapons, anti drugs (both pharmaceutical and recreational) and anti any ideology that denies the existence of Do No Harm Communities (Kindoms) and suppresses the uniqueness and freedom of all men, women and children.
The Cristian family and our Love For Life work is unaligned to any big business corporation, intelligence agency, government body, "system" law, "system" think tanks, "system" green or environmental movements, religion, cult, sect, society (fraternity, brotherhood, sisterhood, order, club, etc,) secret or not, hidden agenda, law or sovereignty group, occult, esoteric, New Age or Old Age.
The Cristian family supports and promotes the remedy that brings an everlasting peace, freedom, truth, joy, abundance and do no harm for all of life without causing loss of uniqueness or the need for having slaves and rulers. We are not into following the one in front or being sheeple. Most importantly, we take full-responsibility for everything we think, feel and do.
The Cristian family are not Christians.
Arthur & Fiona Cristian
Love For Life
December 2006
Being of clear brain, heart and intention, we each declare the following to be true:
• We have no intention of ending our own lives.
• We will not tolerate suppression of truth, ideas, freedom, or our work. We stand for freedom of speech.
• We stand together to support others in the expression of truths and freedom to speak out no matter how radical those ideas may seem.
• Standing for freedom takes courage; together we shall be strong in the face of all odds.
• If it is ever claimed that we have committed suicide, encountered an unfortunate accident, died of sickness/disease, disappeared, been institutionalized, or sold out financially or in any other way to self-interested factions, we declare those claims false and fabricated.
• We testify, assert and affirm without reservation, on behalf of all those who have dedicated their lives to the ending of secrecy and the promotion of freedom of thought, ideas and expression that we shall prevail.
• We Do Not Have Multiple Personality Disorders
Arthur Cristian
Fiona Cristian
Jasmin Lily Cristian
Emma Rose Cristian
Frances Hannah Cristian
Xanthe Jane Cristian
15th December 2006 (Edited/Updated 18th September 2011)
We are turning the Love for Life Quick User Guide http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6608 into a blog of all the main insights of our work since March 2005, whether through articles, videos, podcasts or discussions/debates.
As we do not have the time to compile everything we have written into a book, as many have suggested we do, compiling all our most important work into one area of the website is a way of providing easy access to this work so those interested are able to fully comprehend the big picture.
Instead of having to find our different articles, videos, etc, in various parts of the website, it will all be accessible here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6608 and here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/3385.
As amateurs and posted in the Quick User Guide below the Facebook links, we're currently creating and posting a series of videos called "The Dream Of Life" which covers the ground of all the Love For Life insights. We plan to have the videos completed by December 31st 2012. Once this is behind us, our intention is to create a 2 hour or so video covering the body of this work. All videos are embedded in the quick user guide http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6608 and uploaded in Arthur's YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/ArthurLoveForLife.
We have started recording songs, with others, that express the themes of Love For Life. They are now being posted on Arthur's YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/user/ArthurLoveForLife and are embedded in the quick user guide http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6608. We have over 100 songs to record. A few rough demos have already been used as the soundtrack on the first "Dream of Life" video.
Also, everything we, the Cristian family, have gone through, from bank fraud and the theft of the family home to death threats and attempts on Arthur's life, is documented in the Quick User Guide too. If you, the reader, are prepared to put the effort in, you will comprehend the extent to which we have all been tricked into becoming slaves, giving up our uniqueness and our full-responsibility for life and destroying everything of life to the point where life is in danger of dying out completely. You will also comprehend the remedy to all this chaos; a remedy that requires only love for life and the determination to do what needs to be done. Though our focus is very strongly on the remedy that creates a world of freedom, truth, peace, joy, abundance and Do No Harm for all of life without loss of uniqueness or the need for slaves and rulers, we realise that it is vital to comprehend how to get there and what stops us from getting there. This is why there is so much information on the hows and whys of everything going wrong in the world today. We are not into peddling conspiracy theories, we are into routing out all forms of organised crime.
Saturday 26th November 2011
Arthur and Fiona Cristian
Love For Life
Website: http://loveforlife.com.au
Email: action@loveforlife.com.au
Mobile: 0011 61 418 203204 - (0418 203204)
Facebook Arthur Cristian: http://www.facebook.com/arthurcristian
YouTube Arthur Cristian: http://www.youtube.com/ArthurLoveForLife
SoundCloud: http://soundcloud.com/loveforlife
Nimbit Music: http://www.nimbitmusic.com/loveforlife
Twitter: https://twitter.com/loveforlifemusi
Facebook Music: http://www.facebook.com/loveforlifemusic
Facebook Why Aren't We Free Discussion: http://www.facebook.com/164918753537287
Facebook Do No Harm Community: http://www.facebook.com/151811728195925
YouTube Love For Life Music: http://www.myspace.com/loveforlifemusic
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/loveforlifemusic
Google + Fiona Cristian: https://plus.google.com/100490175160871610090
Register To The Love For Life Mailing List: http://loveforlife.com.au/content/09/05/14/mailing-list
Which Unravels The Reasons For The Chaos, Mayhem and Confusion Being Experienced In The World Today, Explains The Need For "Community Immunity" and Responsibility, and Focuses On The Creation Of Kindoms - Do No Harm, Life-Sustainable Communities (As The Remedy That Heals All Mans Woes) - And How We Can Co-Create Them. For Comments, Articles And Discussions, Go Here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/3385 - Also Go Here To See Podcasts And Videos Posted by Arthur & Fiona Cristian: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/7309 - The Information Shared Comes From Inspiration, Intuition, Heartfelt-Logic And Information Gathered From Nature And Many Amazing Men And Women Along The Way. It Is Not Found In Any Books Or Channellings, Or Talked About By "Experts". Go Here To Read A Brief Synopsis Of Why We Started Love For Life: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/8182
go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/1125 and for more on Eco Homes, Villages, Organic and Permaculture Gardening and Life-Sustainability, etc, go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/3641 and here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/1985 and Mikhail Petrovich Shchetinin - Kin's School - Lycee School at Tekos: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/5173
go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/5068 - LIFE is information. When we distort LIFE and then eat, drink, absorb, think, feel, hear, see, touch, taste, smell and perform these distortions, the information of LIFE, your LIFE, our LIFE, our children's lives, everyone's LIFE, is distorted.
Which Covers Topics From Health to Chemtrails/Haarp to Brain Control to Archaeology to Astronomy Geocentricity Heliocentricity to Pandemics Bird Flu Swine Flu to Fluoride to Cancer to Free Energy to Global Warming, 9/11, Bali Bombings, Aspartame, MSG, Vaccinations, Aids/HIV, Mercury, New World Order, Satanism, Religions, Cults, Sects, Symbolism, etc, etc, go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/82
(Macquarie Bank/Perpetual Limited Bank Fraud Condoned By Judges, Registrars, Barristers, Lawyers, Politicians, Public Servants, Bureaucrats, Big Business and Media Representatives - A Crime Syndicate/Terrorist Organisation) Which Prompted The Creation Of This Love For Life Website December 2006, And The Shooting And Torture Of Supporters Who Assisted Us In Reclaiming The Family Home, Joe Bryant And His Wife, Both In Their Late 70's, go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/5 And Read Some Of Our Email Correspondence With Lawyer Paul Kean - Macedone Christie Willis Solari Partners - Miranda Sydney May 17th-June 27th 2006: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/7300
go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/australian_stories (If you have a story you would like us to put up, we would love to here from you:
action @ loveforlife.com.au)
Evidence Revealing How Victims Did Not Break The Peace, Caused No Crime or Harm, There Were No Injured Parties. Documenting Incontrovertible Evidence Demonstrating How The Powers That Be (PTB) And Their Lackeys Will Break All The Laws They Are Supposed To Uphold. They Will Kidnap, Intimidate, Terrorise, Rape, Pillage, Plunder And Lie And Take Responsibility For None Of It. All Part Of Their Tactics Of Using Fear And Trauma To Keep Us In Our Place. Relatives Of Those Under Their Radar Are Also Not Safe From Attack And Intimidation. All Starting From A $25 Fine For Not Voting And A $65 Fine For Not Changing A Dog Registration. We Do Not Have Freedom And Can Only Appear To Have Freedom If We Comply. Regardless How Small The Matter The PTB Throw Hundreds Of Thousands Of Dollars Away To Enforce Their Will.... Go Here:
Fiona Cristian Reply To State Debt Recovery Office - Part One to Part Ten - From 17th October 2008 And Still Continuing:
http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6319 or
Fiona Cristian Reply To State Debt Recovery Office
Part One: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/5742 - From 17th October 2008
Part Two: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6135 - From 18th December 2008
Part Three: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6295 - From 9th January 2009
Part Four: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6296 - From 14th January 2009
Part Five: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6375 - The Sick Puppy - From 20th February 2009
Part Six: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6390 - Police Officers, Sheriff’s Officers, Tow Truck Driver and State Debt Recovery Office Blatantly Ignore the Law To Rape, Pillage and Plunder The Private Property Of Fiona Cristian - From 11th March 2009
Part Seven: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6445 - Affidavit Of Truth - Letter To The Queen + Australia: Fascism is Corporatism - From 30th March 2009
Part Eight: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6652 - The Pirates Auction And The Ghost Of VSL386 - From 4th April 2009
Part Nine: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/7073 - Arthur Cristian's Letter To Pru Goward MP - From 15th December 2009
Part Ten: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/7500 - Should We Be In Fear Of Those Who Claim To Protect Us? "Roman Cult" Canon Law - Ecclesiastical Deed Poll - The Work Of Frank O'Collins - From 13th October 2010
go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/895 - For Common Law, Democracy, Constitution, Trial By Jury, Fee Simple, etc, go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/category/main/law-articles-documents
go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/banks
go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/tracker
go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/video_dvd
go here: http://loveforlife.com.au/content/06/12/05/love-life-legal-disclaimer
go here: Part One: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6616 Part Two: THE STEVE JOHNSON REPORT AND VIDEO: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6665 and Part Three: Latest Update On James Von Brunn: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6673
Conscious Love Always
Arthur & Fiona Cristian
Love For Life
action @ loveforlife.com.au
www.loveforlife.com.au
0418 203204 (int: 0011 61 418 203204)
PO Box 1320 Bowral 2576 NSW Australia
Arthur Cristian
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The information contained on this world wide web site (the web site and all information herein shall be collectively referred to as "Web Site Information"), under the registered url name, loveforlife.com.au, resides on a host server environment in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15203, United States of America.
The Web Site Information has been prepared to provide general information only and is not intended to constitute or be construed as providing substantive professional advice or opinion on any facts or circumstances. Transmission of the information is not intended to create, nor does its receipt give rise to, a professional-client relationship between 'Love for Life' and the receiver.
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The impact of the law, policy and/or procedure for any particular situation depends on a variety of factors; therefore, readers should not act upon any Web Site Information without seeking professional advice. 'Love for Life' is not responsible for any action taken in reliance on any Web Site Information herein.
'Love for Life' is not responsible for any action you or others take which relies on information in this website and/or responses thereto. 'Love for Life' disclaim all responsibility and liability for loss or damage suffered by any person relying, directly or indirectly, on the Web Site Information, including in relation to negligence or any other default.
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The sending of information by you, and the receipt of it by 'Love for Life', is not intended to, and does not, create a professional-client relationship.
All Web Site Information is considered correct at the time of the web site's most recent revision.
Note: Updated Wednesday 17th June 2009 8.00pm Sydney Time.
Love For Life does not support harm doing in any shape or form. However, we are supporters of free speech and post articles, documentaries, etc, that represent a wide cross section of ideas. See the Love For Life extensive research library where over 11,000 individual documents, articles, videos, podcasts and debates/discussions are posted: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/82. We clearly see the evidence of the destruction to MAN and Earth that has been caused by ALL religions over the centuries and are therefore not supporters of religions, cults, sects or any group that demands conformity of thought, speech or action, or has rules, regulations or rituals that must be followed. Religions, nationalities and cultural "identities" are formed as a result of the brainwashing we receive from childhood. They are part of the tactics the Establishment uses to keep us all divided from one another and fighting one another.
All religions promote discrimination and division, leading to hatred and even violence and murder. None of them have yet to produce a remedy to all the suffering, poverty, unhappiness and discrimination in the world. If any religion truly had the remedy to all the suffering on earth, there would no longer be any suffering. What have Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Judaism, atheism and the New Age done to end the suffering in the world?
The Love For Life website has information from all sides on many subjects, whether about Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Law, health, psychology, mind control, vaccination, aspartame, MSG, Chemtrails etc. There are over 11,000 individual articles, documentaries, etc on the website and they are so diverse that we are sure that everyone would be able to find something they loved and something they hated, if they took the time to search. If we removed all the articles hated by everyone, there would probably be nothing left! We are not anti anyone but freedom of speech is freedom of speech and no one should condemn the work of another without taking the time to research the subject themselves. Yes, there are articles by those who have a less-than-rosy-viewpoint of Judaism, but there are also articles on the dark side of Tibetan Buddhism (and it is very dark) for those who are interested in the truth: Tibet - Buddhism - Dalai Lama: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6271 Should the authors of these articles be abused and imprisoned for daring to challenge the widely conceived reputation of Buddhism as being the religion of peace and love and that of the Dalai Lama as a saint, or should those interested be allowed to study the work and come to their own conclusions? The same applies to all the articles, documentaries, etc, about Christianity, Islam, Freemasonry, New World Order, etc.
The Love for Life website also shows how the Rule of Law, the Bar, the Government, the Monarchy, the system of commerce, the local, national and multi/trans-national private corporations, all the courses and careers on offer from our universities, all the educators, scientists, academics and experts, the aristocrats and the Establishment bloodlines have also done NOTHING to end the suffering in the world. The website maps the insanity of a world where there is no help for those in need, just as there was no help available for us when we were victims of terrible bank fraud: http://loveforlife.com.au/court_case orchestrated, condoned and protected by an international crime syndicate/terrorist organisation of judges, barristers, registrars, lawyers, politicians, banksters, big business representatives, media moguls and other lackeys who, all together, put up a wall of silence despite our trying many, many avenues. After the family home was stolen and business destroyed we were left close to poverty and destitution caring for 4 young daughters. Three years later not much has changed regardless of all our efforts. Where were all the followers of all the religions to help us? Or do we have to be members of those religions to receive help from others involved in them?
We have been accused of being anti - Jewish because we had posted an excerpt from James von Brun's book: Kill the Best Gentiles! http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6054 in which he blames Jews for the problems of the world. Obviously this is not our view because of what we have stated above. We do not hate anyone, whatever religion they follow. We are always open to talk to any religious leader or politician and meet with any judge, member of the Bar, experts, academics, educators etc to share the remedy we offer that heals all the divisions between MAN and MAN, and MAN and EARTH.
Today, a representative of the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies is threatening to close the website down, because they have decided it is anti - Jewish and that we promote racism. What has the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies done to end the suffering in the world? Can they show that they are concerned with the suffering of ALL men, women and children AND ARE SEEN TO BE DOING SOMETHING ABOUT IT or are they only concerned with Jewish affairs? If so, they, along with all the other religions that only care for their own, are part of the problem, not part of the solution. The man who rang Arthur today was only concerned with Jewish affairs; he was not interested in our intentions or in anybody else, just as most Christians, Muslims, Sikhs, Catholics, etc, are only interested in their own. While we separate our lives into groups, dividing our lives from others with rules, regulations, rituals, procedures, conditions and contracts, we will never solve our problems.
No matter what we in the Western World Civilisation of Commerce have been promised by our politicians, religious leaders, scientists, educators, philosophers, etc, for the past two hundred years, all we have seen is ever-increasing destruction of men, women and children and Earth. None of the so-called experts and leaders we have been taught to rely on are coming up with a solution and none of them are taking full-responsibility for the fact that they can't handle the problem. All religious books talk about end times full of destruction and suffering but why do we have to follow this program when there is an alternative to hatred, mayhem and death? Why are our leaders following the program of destruction and death rather than exploring the do no harm alternatives? It seems that any mainstream politician, priest or academic are only interested in supporting the RULES OF THE DIVIDE, that maintain the haves and the have nots. For 200+ years, 99% of the world population have been so trained to pass on their responsibility for their lives, others and Earth, that the 1% of the population that make up the leaders of the rest of us are making all the decisions leading to the destruction of all of us and Earth. Let's not forget the education system that brainwashes the 99% of the population that we are free and have equal rights while, in fact, we are feathering the nests of those at the top.
At the root of all our problems is self-centredness, an unwillingness nurtured by the Establishment that keeps us concerned only with our own needs rather than the needs of others around us and Earth. Instead of creating and releasing acts of love for those around us as gifts to benefit them and Earth, we take, take and take, until there is nothing left. The whole point of the Love for Life website is to show people the root of all our problems and to share the remedy. The extensive research library is there to attract browsers and to provide access to information not available through mainstream channels. If the New South Wales Jewish Board of Deputies can, after careful examination of our work, prove that anything we are saying is wrong, we will be happy to accept their proof. If they cannot, and they are still insistent on closing the website down, they will be showing themselves to be traitors to MAN because they are not interested in pursuing any avenue that can end the suffering in the world.
All religions, corporations and organisations that support and maintain the Western World Civilisation of Commerce are part of the problem because our civilisation is a world of haves and have nots, exclusivity, privilege, racism, violence, hatred, poverty, sickness, discrimination, abuse, starvation, homelessness, corruption, collusion, vindictiveness, social unrest, arrogance, ignorance, fear, war and chaos. While we support civilisation, we support death and destruction.
If we truly want peace and freedom for all, we have to let go of all that which keeps us divided, and come together as MAN, conscious living co-creators of creation/life. The Love For Life website offers a remedy to the problems we all face in the form of DO NO HARM COMMUNITIES (KINDOMS): http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6608 - http://loveforlife.com.au/node/3641 For more details see here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/6511 and here: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/3385 - We also highly recommend that everyone read the brilliant Russian books called The Ringing Cedars: http://loveforlife.com.au/node/1125 - The Love For Life homepage/front-page also provides lots of inspiring remedy based information: http://loveforlife.com.au - If you want to be kept up to date with our work please register to the Love For Life mailing list here: http://loveforlife.com.au/campaign_list We usually send two postings per month. Presently (September 2011) there are over 7000 registrations reaching over 500,000 readers across Earth. The website now (September 2011) receives up to 12 million hits per month. Since December 2006, over 100 million people have visited the Love For Life website.
Conscious Love Always
Arthur and Fiona Cristian
Love For Life
17th June 2009
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