The Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun interviews Dennis V. Kequom, the chief of the Saginaw Chippewa Tribe of Michigan, about a number of issues, including a recent legal settlement over the boundaries of the reservation.

"Q: In light of the recent lawsuit settlement (Where U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Ludington ruled that the land in the traditional boundaries of the Isabella Reservation is to be defined as Indian country under federal law) did the Tribe get what it was seeking when they filed the lawsuit (in 2005)? And what are your thoughts?

A: Yes, the Tribal community can now know their boundaries will be recognized and respected. And we now have an opportunity for open dialog and maintaining those respectful relationships.

Q: What didn't the Tribe get that it was seeking? And what are your thoughts?

A: It is not necessarily what we didn't get, but rather what was conceded to. In the spirit of cooperation, the city and county will be able to enjoy revenue from property taxation that would have probably wouldn't have if we pursued trust applications on current and future property holders."

Get the Story:
Tribal Chief enjoys meeting people (The Mt. Pleasant Morning Sun 11/29)

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