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February 21, 2009

BOIS FORTE CHIPPEWA OPEN MINNEAPOLIS OFFICE

Provides Band members better service, stronger voice in tribal government

MINNEAPOLIS – On February 26, members of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa Indians will gather to celebrate – not on their reservation in northeast Minnesota, but at their new Urban Office in Minneapolis.

The office, at 1404 East Franklin Avenue, will give urban Band members a stronger voice in their tribal government and more access to Band programs and services, said Band Chairman Kevin Leecy.

“When I first took office, urban Band members would joke that they only saw Reservation Tribal Council members during election years,” he said. “They told us they wanted – and needed – more connection and more opportunities.”

The Urban Office will offer health care and social services, such as funeral assistance, tribal IDs, emergency assistance, and help accessing diabetes supplies. It will act as a clearinghouse for information on local housing, education and employment opportunities. Band entrepreneurs will be able to get help and support to develop new businesses. And Band members of all ages will have a community gathering place.

Leecy announced his plan to create the Urban Office during his annual State of the Band Address in January 2008. At the 2009 State of the Band last month, Leecy introduced Jacque Wilson, the new Urban Office Coordinator.

“Some native people have always lived in urban areas, but they can draw strength from knowing their home, their history, and their traditions,” said Wilson. “The same is true for the Band – it can be stronger if the off-reservation members are invested in what goes on up north. We are all stronger when everyone’s talents are recognized and encouraged, and everyone is given an opportunity to contribute.”

Although the Urban Office is new, it may soon undergo a significant change:  Leecy said Bois Forte and the five other members of the Minnesota Chippewa Tribe intend to open a first-of-its-kind Native American Embassy in the Twin Cities.

“This unique, collaborative center will give all participating bands a long-term, cost-effective way to serve our urban members and reinforce our status as sovereign nations,” he said.

The new Bois Forte Urban Office will host an open house from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, with a ceremony at 1 p.m. Refreshments will be served all day, and there will be drawings, door prizes, and a gift.

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