The Crow Tribe of Montana inaugurated its first group of leaders since a new constitution was enacted in July 2001.

Chairman Carl Venne, elected to a four-year term, said he will work to reduce the 63 percent unemployment rate on the reservation. He said the tribe will tap into oil, gas, coal and other resources to make this happen.

Also sworn in on Wednesday were Vice-chairman Cedric Black Eagle, Secretary Andrew Old Elk and Vice-Secretary Darrin Old Coyote.

The new constitution has been the subject of considerable debate on the reservation. Some tribal members contend it was adopted illegally.

Get the Story:
Crow Nation inaugurates Chairman Carl Venne under new tribal constitution (The Billings Gazette 12/9)
Activist says now's the time for Crows to assert sovereignty (AP 12/9)

Relevant Links:
Crow Nation - http://www.crownations.net

Related Stories:
Venne wins re-election as chairman of Crow Tribe (11/08)
Crow chairman, challenger face off in election (10/29)
Crow chairman promotes record ahead of election (09/03)