"“An Indian Reservation in Crime’s Deadly Grip” correctly draws attention to the problems of Indian reservations in the United States. Especially striking was the statistic that more than 80 percent of the residents of Wind River Indian Reservation (Wyo.) are unemployed.

The economic downturn has hit Indian country much harder than other parts of the nation. And without the ability to generate revenue and provide jobs for tribal members, we will perpetuate a cycle of poverty.

The article also correctly points out that many reservations face harsh geographic challenges, limiting many tribes from being able to develop commerce and industry for their members. Luckily, we can find a solution to these problems in e-commerce. This business model has provided hope to Indian country. "

Get the Story:
Turtle Mountain Chairman Merle St. Claire: Helping Indian Tribes (The New York Times 2/13)

Related Stories:
BIA's 'surge' leaves Wind River Reservation with more crime (2/3)