"I want to mention that the elders' organization is just one of a growing number of such programs around the country. Many are being formed as tribal elders retire to the reservation after decades of business, professional or government service.

These groups are taking a more active role in the business of tribal government. And I would say the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Elders' Organization at Fort Berthold is one of the more exceptionally active groups.

For example, among the organization's membership are a former service unit director for the Indian Health Service, former contracting specialist for the U.S. Navy, former Bureau of Indian Affairs professionals, two ministers, two lawyers, two former tribal college presidents and two former tribal chairmen, to name a few.

The elders' extensive expertise and energetic participation on the elder councils are changing tribal governments."

Get the Story:
Dorreen Yellow Bird: Elders' group finds fault with tribal management (The Grand Forks Herald 10/15)

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