More tribes consider banning Gov. Noem

SIOUX FALLS, SD (Dakota News Now) – The Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Tribal Council voted Tuesday to bar Governor Kristi Noem from the Lake Traverse Reservation. This is the fifth ban imposed on Noem after she made remarks about the cartel’s presence on reservations.

Tribal council members told Dakota News Now that tensions between their nations and Governor Noem have been growing for several years.

Tribal leaders shared concerns about Noem’s actions, as well as who else was considering a ban from the governor and whether there was hope for reconciliation in the near future.

The fifth of South Dakota’s nine sovereign states has now banned Gov. Kristi Noem from entering its tribal lands.

Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate Tribal Council Chairman J. Garret Renville said it is the duty of tribal leaders to honor the voice of the people, saying that while the goal is to have an open dialogue, “ it is equally important that we take steps to protect our values. , ensure a safe and inclusive environment and prevent further marginalization of tribal nations.

Other bans are also being considered.

Yankton Sioux Tribal Chairman Ryan Cournoyer told Dakota News Now he believes Noem’s comments were irresponsible and went against collaboration. He plans an emergency council meeting, saying, “We seek to join with the South Dakota Tribal Nations (the Oceti Sakowin) against his false allegations that tribal leaders are working with the cartels.” »

Oglala Sioux Tribal Council member Tyler Yellow Boy appreciates the support from other nations.

“I commend other tribes who are stepping up and taking this initiative, not wanting to hear our concerns and not respecting tribal sovereignty,” Yellow Boy said.

Chase Iron Eyes of the Lakota Law Project said a tribe had nothing to lose by banishing Noem.

“This sends a message to Noem: You are not putting down our children. You can’t go to a public meeting in Winner, South Dakota, and say that Native children have no hope,” Iron Eyes said.

Yellow Boy spoke about ongoing tensions throughout his four years on the council and sees no path to reconciliation.

“We are a day late and we are short of money. In this world, the lines were already drawn. So, as tribal leader, I represent the action of the tribal council and still support its banishment from the Oglala Sioux Tribe.

Dakota News Now has requested comment from Governor Noem’s office and will keep you updated with any response.