"Ahh, the week after elections; losers scratch their heads, and winners are misty-eyed with victory. Me? I'm both disappointed and glad at the outcome of some the election results. I am extremely pleased with the growing numbers of American Indian voters. It means we are recognizing how mainstream America affects us. It means we are realizing we can make a difference.

Indians' voting strength and mention in the news tells me we are beginning to take our place at the big table. Indian people are a new trend in political systems.

Yet, we should remember to maintain that vision of who we are. Remember tribal governments held us together for thousands of years and in times of great adversity - they were good governments. Today, our new tribal governments, which were fashioned after the federal government in the middle 1900s, are struggling to find a way to good government. Last, we need to remember we have a responsibility to the nation and people - we are, after all, still stewards of Turtle Island."

Get the Story:
COLUMNIST DORREEN YELLOW BIRD: Tribes show some poll clout (The Grand Forks Herald 11/6)

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