Updates from the Chief Executive

March Message from the Chief Executive

Aaniin,

Spring is just around the corner, and as we welcome the longer days and warmer weather, I want to take a moment to reflect on the work we’ve been doing over the past few months. January and February were busy for my team and me. Here’s a look at some of the key meetings, events, and initiatives we’ve been focused on:

Federal Advocacy and Tribal Affairs

In January, I traveled to Washington, D.C., where I had planned to attend the 60th Presidential Inauguration on January 20. When the event was moved indoors, I made the most of the trip by meeting with our federal lobbyists from Holland and Knight Law Firm. We discussed several critical issues impacting the Band reinforcing our commitment to advancing Mille Lacs’ interests at the national level.

On January 24, I met with the Corporate Board of Directors to provide updates on Mille Lacs Corporate Ventures and my proposed revisions to Title 16. Later that day, I attended the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Foundation Advisory Committee meeting. This committee, made up of elected officials, helps ensure our philanthropic initiatives align with our cultural values and community priorities. Band members can now find the Advisory Committee’s proposal form, bylaws, and meeting minutes on the Band’s website.

At the end of January, I joined other Tribal leaders for the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe’s Quarterly Meeting and Tribal Executive Committee meetings at Fond du Lac’s Black Bear Casino. I also had an important discussion with our Band’s Delegates about Constitutional Reform from a Mille Lacs perspective. Recently, Leech Lake and White Earth put forward legislation to count Red Lake blood when determining Band membership. Despite my vote against this proposal, the revisions to the MCT Enrollment Ordinance were approved. However, Mille Lacs will not count Red Lake blood unless we opt in — something I do not support at this time.

Responding to Federal Executive Orders

We’ve all seen the wave of executive orders President Trump has issued since taking office. One of the most concerning was his “federal funding freeze.” In response, I sent out a letter and a video message in late January to reassure Band members. While these types of federal actions are troubling, I believe it’s important to take a measured approach rather than react hastily. We are closely monitoring how federal agencies and Congress respond. As always, my focus remains on protecting our sovereignty and ensuring the Band’s best interests are upheld.

Public Policy and Environmental Protection

On January 31, I participated in a Minnesota Public Utilities Commission Tribal Consultation session regarding the pro posed rerouting of Magellan’s gasoline pipeline near Pipestone National Monument. While the Band suggested an alternative route, other Native Nations have also submitted proposals, and our recommendation was tabled for now. This issue is far from over, and I will continue to keep you informed. Later that day, I attended the Hinckley-Finlayson Elementary School Round Dance. Events like these are a reminder of the importance of celebrating our culture with the next generation.

I gifted a Mille Lacs Band flag to the school for display — a small but meaningful gesture to ensure our presence is recognized and honored.

Strengthening Community and Leadership

Over the past few months, we’ve started a new tradition at the Government Center: The Maadaginzo (First of the Month) Drum Ceremony. We gather in the foyer at 8 a.m. to offer to bacco, say a prayer (miigwech to Joe Nayquonabe Sr. for leading us), smudge, listen to the drum, and share a meal. This is open to all government employees and community members. Our next ceremony is on Monday, March 3 — please join us.

That same day, we held interviews for the Executive Direc tor position for the Department of Cannabis Regulation. We expect to make an announcement soon.

On February 4, I convened our Cabinet meeting to check in with commissioners. Our government is always working, and I encourage you to reach out to your commissioners to learn more about their efforts. The best way to stay informed is to simply ask them, “What’s going on?” — you may be surprised by the many initiatives underway.

Defending Our Water and Natural Resources

On February 5, several staff members and I visited the Talon Metals site to discuss the proposed Tamarack Mine Project. As I’ve said before, I understand the demand for raw materials to power modern technology, but we must ask — at what cost? A polluted environment? I recently wrote an opinion piece in the Star Tribune about why protecting Minnesota’s water is a re sponsibility we all share. Our natural resources are sacred, and we must ensure that economic development does not come at the expense of our land, water, and future generations.

National Advocacy and Tribal Sovereignty

From February 9 – 12, I attended the National Congress of American Indians Winter Session in Washington, D.C. NCAI President Mark Macarro delivered the annual State of Indian Nations Address, which is available on NCAI’s YouTube channel. This session provided valuable insights into how we can strengthen the government-to-government relationship be tween Tribal Nations and the federal government.

After returning from D.C., I attended a hearing in the Twin Cities regarding the Running Aces RICO lawsuit against the Band and the Prairie Island Indian Community. We’re also monitoring the ongoing discussions in the state legislature about sports betting legislation — right now, there are three competing proposals under consideration. More updates will come as this develops.

Honoring Our Missing and Murdered Relatives

One of the most powerful moments of the month was participating in the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives March at the Minneapolis American Indian Center. This event is always a time of deep reflection. Walking alongside so many others, I felt a profound sense of connection — both to those we’ve lost and to the responsibility we all share in bringing awareness and justice to this crisis. As Anishinaabeg, we stand together, support one another, and do what we can to protect our people.

Remembering a Leader

In closing, I want to acknowledge the passing of former District II Representative Marvin Bruneau. Marvin dedicated 28 years to serving our people in the legislative branch, and though I only had the opportunity to work with him for a short time, I learned so much from him. He was a leader who carried himself with integrity and treated others with respect. We will miss you, Ogjimaabinaise. That’s all for this month. Wishing you and your families good health and happiness.

Miigwech.