Opinion: Passamaquoddy Tribe deserves a shot at casino

Monday, March 22, 2010  

"The people of Maine stand to gain a lot from voting in favor of this casino proposal for the Passamaquoddy Reservation. A casino enterprise would not only allow the Passamaquoddy people to get off welfare, it would generate new revenue that would overflow into the surrounding Maine communities. Everyone would benefit.

A casino in Pleasant Point would create jobs for the Passamaquoddy people and for communities around the reservation. Moreover, a casino at the Passamaquoddy Reservation would encourage tourism in that region. A casino is a way for the Passamaquoddy community to support themselves without exploiting the environment.

Money generated by the casino would help the Passamaquoddy people provide schools for their children, where the Passamaquoddy language will be taught and cultural arts, ceremonies and ways of life will be honored. A casino could also help support cultural arts and tribal events that are open to the public.

The Passamaquoddy people are proud of their heritage and traditions and want to share it with others. If Maine people vote in favor of this casino proposal when it appears on the ballot, the entire region will benefit. It will be a win-win situation for Maine and the Passamaquoddy community. It is time for Maine to start supporting economic development in Wabanaki tribes. In giving something back to the Passamaquoddy community in Maine, we will receive something invaluable: a chance to preserve the culture and heritage of the proud Native American people who still call this place home."

Get the Story:
Virginia Sand: Casino would preserve culture and benefit region financially (The Maine Campus 3/22)

Earlier Stories:
Passamaquoddy Tribe pushes ballot initiative on casino (3/19)
Passamaquoddy Tribe reaches deal over gaming ballot (3/18)