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"We have been told to abandon our language, culture and teachings in the name of 'civilizing' us," she said in the 20th annual State of the Band address. "We were told to value money and material things and then happiness would follow.
"Forgetting our culture and believing those lies was our downfall."
Benjamin, who was elected chief executive four years ago, said at the outset of her speech that she could have spoken about record casino profits, new housing or the tribe's new grocery store that will open next month, Grand Market. Instead, tribal elders asked her to voice their concerns and emphasize the importance of speaking Ojibwe and observing traditions.
"Some of our children are getting involved with gangs," Benjamin said. "Our elders say they do this because their spirit within is begging to be nourished. But there's no nourishment in gangs. Only sadness and destruction.
"Violence is not part of our culture. Abusing one another is not part of our culture. Neglecting our elders and our babies is not part of our culture."
(Source: Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Indians)
Benjamin bemoaned the effects of violence, drug and alcohol addiction and the fact that nearly 150 of the tribe's children were in foster care. Benjamin's address eschewed specifics, referring tribal members to her report on programs and directives to commissioners. Instead, she spoke on the need to return to traditional Ojibwe values and customs.
She called for a two-day meeting, similar to the regional economic summit the tribe conducted last year. Only this meeting would be for band members only, providing a chance for them to make decisions about their community.
Also delivering addresses were Herb Weyaus, speaker of the assembly, and Rosalie Noonday, chief justice of the judicial branch.
In her speech, Benjamin honored tribal members who are currently serving in the military and the tribe's veterans, noting these men and women should be role models for the youth.
Benjamin reminded the audience they can legislate what goes on in homes or the choices of the tribe's children. What's needed, she said, was a commitment to take responsibility for the tribe's future.
"We've tried everything the other society has told us to try," Benjamin said. "Isn't it time to follow the instructions of our elders?"
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506 James Street, P.O. Box 974, Brainerd, Minnesota, U.S.A. 56401
The Brainerd Daily Dispatch, Central Minnesota's Daily Newspaper. Continuing The Weekly Dispatch founded in 1881. Published daily except six legal holidays in Brainerd, Minnesota by The BraInerd Daily Dispatch, a division of Morris Communications, Corp. The official newspaper of Crow Wing County. Offices located at 506 James Street, Brainerd, MN 56401. MEMBER OF THE ASSOCIATED PRESS.
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