A record 80 Indian delegates are attending the Democratic National Convention in Boston, Massachusetts, this week.

California Indians are some of the most visible. Mark Macarro, chairman of the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, and Mary Ann Andreas, a former chairwoman of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians who is running for public office, are in town to emphasize Indian issues.

Tribes are also making their presence known. The Pechanga Band sponsored a breakfast for the state's contingent, the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians is handing out freebies and the California Nations Indian Gaming Association is sponsoring a breakfast too.

The national party's Indian platform will be voted on today.

Get the Story:
Inland tribes open wallet for Democrats (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 7/27)
pwpwd
Indian issues vital to delegate (The Norwich Bulletin 7/27)
Democratic convention: Day One (The Native American Times 7/26)

Relevant Links:
Democratic National Convention - http://www.dems2004.org
Republican National Convention - http://www.2004nycgop.org

Related Stories:
Indian Democrats plan big showing at convention (07/06)
Democrats turn to Indians to help draft platform (06/21)
Navajo leader disinvited to Democratic convention (05/10)