South Dakota lawmakers gathered for the state of the tribes address in Pierre. Lester Thompson Jr. is chairman of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. He delivered the address to a joint session. Cooperation and collaboration was the theme. Lester thanked state leaders for coming to the aide of tribal members when a young girl went missing earlier this year.
Chairman Thompson stated Thursday, "And as they gathered and went and searched for this young woman they had their tribal officers volunteers and out of nowhere here come the game fish and parks of south Dakota and a state trooper to assist. No MOU in place, just being humans and putting forth the humanity effort to retrieve this young one. That’s a positive."
Chairman Thompson says when state and tribes work together good things happen. But when there’s a lack of communication it creates obstacles. He points to the governor’s plan to reintroduce legislation to stop riot boosting in South Dakota.
"Legislation submitted and adopted without opportunity for tribal engagement last session in Senate Bills 189 and 190, the riot boosting and peace fund legislation, only leads to further distrust and disrespect for all the citizens of South Dakota."
Chairman Thompson says he appreciates a meeting earlier with Governor Noem to address some issues.
All nine tribes were represented during the State of the Tribes address. Attendees were invited for ongoing conversation for the Great Sioux Nation Tribal Address. Both addresses can be found at SD.Net.