The tribal elections for positions to the tribal council were held
in accordance with the constitution as they have been held for the
past fifty or more years, on the second Saturday in October. The tribal
chairperson, Laura Coyhis, has obtained the support of the BIA in
negating these elections and has set a new election day.
Coyhis had, prior to election day, cancelled the elections saying the
caucus and upcoming election were invalid because of interference in the
process by her opposition. However, the elders and many others on the
reservation were determined to preserve the traditions and held the
elections in accordance to tradition and the Tribal constitution.
During the election on October 8, 1994, Coyhis supporters were soundly
defeated. She again ruled the election invalid and this time, the BIA
supported her. Or rather they said they supported the present government.
Coyhis and her supporters say they are the government becasue they
control the money, according to the Shawano Leader, a local newspaper.
As Coyhis continues to intimidate the people, she has closed several
public places on the reservation where her opposition is know to congregate.
She now threatens to close the library and museum, the last meeting place
for opposition forces. Access to public phones has been reduced and
other means of electronic communication have been closed or closely watched.
The vast majority of the Stockbridge - Munsee Tribe are asking for your
support in a letter writting campaign to your senator and represenative
to begin an investigation of the BIA and why they would not acknowledge
the election of October 8, 1994. Please, take time to write, call or
e-mail them to ask for the investigation.
Also, the tensions remain very high and "The possibility of violence
seems to be a more real threat than ever before", said a spokesman for
the group opposing Coyhis.
your prayers and assistance are greatly appreciated.
I will be happy to relay any message you may wish to send to the
reservations if you do not have any ususal channels.