Press Herald -
The Penobscot and Passamaquoddy tribes withdrew their representatives
to the Maine Legislature on Tuesday in the latest sign of a growing rift
in the historically troubled relationship between the sovereign tribes
and the state. Related Headlines
Rep. Wayne Mitchell of the
Penobscot Nation and Rep. Matthew Dana of the Passamaquoddy Tribe walked
off the House chamber floor after lamenting what Dana portrayed as
state attempts to perpetuate a “guardian-to-ward relationship” with the
tribal nations. Tribal leaders assailed policies they say failed to
respect the tribes’ sovereignty, denied members sustenance fishing
rights and ignored tribal culture.
“Our hope is that one day the
state will recognize us for who we are and value the tribes as sovereign
partners and engage in a relationship of mutual respect,” Dana said.
“Until then, we simply must decide our own future. If history has taught
us anything, it certainly is that lesson.”
Gov. Paul LePage’s
office responded that the administration is a willing partner, but said
“the tribes have had difficulty working together, and they have not been
cooperative in working with the state.”
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