From the Traverse City Record-Eagle:
This past October, at the Great Lakes Bioneers conference held at Northwestern Michigan College, I participated in a presentation with Traverse City Mayor Chris Bzdok. Our presentation focused on “Participating in Governance,” and throughout our discussion an emerging theme became apparent: Citizens feel a stronger need to be connected as a part of their respective governments.
Following our presentation and questions that were asked, I thought about what this means and how elected officials could improve this connection. I believe we are, now more than ever, asking for true representative democracy of our elected officials. Interestingly, this is a common and expected understanding among citizens of tribal governments whom tribal officials are elected to serve.
An elected tribal official is not defined within a political party, yet represents a sovereign nation in its entirety and its citizenship. There is a strong need to build relationships with other decision-makers and leaders.
To better understand, it is truly “government-to-government” when developing relationships with local, state and federal officials. Developing and maintaining interactions that occur daily, weekly and monthly is a definite advantage in accomplishing work efforts and activities, and for making the best decisions possible.
Having served on Tribal Council since 2004, and more recently as tribal chairman, I am routinely impressed with the high level of commitment to northern Michigan and our beautiful state by local and state representatives.
Our tribal elders have expressed that the “truest form of government in the world is tribal government.” The reason this statement is so true is that in the tribal political world, politics are an extension of the tribal community. Elected tribal leaders are from families sharing relationships through marriages and other bindings, all participating in social, cultural and ceremonial events.
We gather together to celebrate life and gather in times of sorrow for loved ones who have walked on. The list of connections is endless. Tribal leaders are connected daily with their tribal citizens, and their leadership is directly affected by the needs of its people.
We face a seminal time in the state of Michigan. During very difficult times, both economically and socially, Gov. Rick Snyder and some 70-plus freshman legislators have just assumed office. I encourage them, and hope that each of you will reach out and encourage each of them not to lose sight of the reason for their election.
Encourage them to put differences aside and join together as leaders to have intimacy with government. Strengthen the connection between the citizens and government. Recognize the importance for citizens to participate in government.
Let’s all work together for a brighter, stronger Michigan.
About the author: Derek Bailey is chairman of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.
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