Getting Organized

Political Action Committee

Last week I informed you all of my intentions to run for office. This week, I’d like to share an idea I believe can implement at the local council office, to far beyond.

 I’m talking about the idea of creating a Political Action Committee.

For those of you that haven’t heard about a PAC before, let me explain what it is.

 The legal definition of a Political Action Committee or PAC, is an organization in the United States that collects and spends money to elect or defeat political candidates, influence elections, legislation, and policy. There are several key aspects to understand about PACs:

 PACs are formed by businesses, labor unions, trade groups, or other interest groups to raise and contribute money to the campaigns of political candidates whom they support. They also engage in other political activities, such as advocating for specific legislation or policy issues.

 There are several types of PACs, including: 

Connected PACs: Established by businesses, labor unions, trade groups, or health organizations, these PACs can only solicit contributions from individuals associated with the connected organization.

Non-connected PACs: These are independent and can accept funds from any individual or organization.

Leadership PACs: Created by politicians to support other candidates and political activities, usually separate from their own campaign funds.

Super PACs: Officially known as "independent expenditure-only committees," they can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money from corporations, unions, associations, and individuals. However, they are not allowed to coordinate directly with candidates or political parties.

PACs are regulated by the Federal Election Commission (FEC) in the United States. They must register with the FEC, and their contributions and expenditures are subject to legal limits and reporting requirements.

 PACs are a significant part of the U.S. political landscape. They can influence elections, shape public policy, and represent the interests of various groups. However, their role and influence are often subjects of debate, especially regarding issues like campaign finance reform and political transparency.

I’m not 100 percent sure which one would fit our current needs. In my opinion the most important characteristic of our PAC would be, organized. As of right now, there isn’t a lot of that in the Native political space.

Just to gauge the level of interest, I ask that you please respond to the poll below. If you do decide to vote yes, please leave a brief message with your name via email. Thank you

As always, If you don’t know now you know, a Native!

N.A.G.A goes back to High School

It’s tough going pro

NAGA is back!

Or maybe they never left. This is the same group that attempted to reinstate the team name of Washington Redskins a few months ago.

It seems that their unsuccessful efforts in the Pros have led them back to high school. They are definitely a motivated group, I’ll give them that.

Also, as you read the article below, I want you to keep in mind that they believe they are truly protecting Native culture. It’s an interesting read.

Read more below.

Article via Fox News

The Southern York County School District (SYCSD) school board voted 7-2 on Thursday to allow Susquehannock High School to bring back its traditional Warriors logo.

"This vote was the Lexington & Concord moment in the effort to defeat cancel culture," Native American activist and historian Andre Billeaudeuax told Fox News Digital, after lobbying on behalf of the traditional image that pays homage to the Indigenous Susquehannock people.

All seven votes in favor of the logo came from members who were elected since a previous board voted to remove the logo back in 2021.

"The SYCSD school board stands as a role model and blueprint for other communities fighting for their Native names and imagery," the North Dakota-based Native American Guardians Association (NAGA) said in a statement, after it presented its case last week at the board meeting

"This movement was about erasing Native American culture and I wasn’t about to stand for it," Jennifer Henkel, a mother of three children and one of the new school board members, told Fox News Digital.

Their arrival, however, is apparently not welcome by everyone in the community.

"They came into their new positions with bravado to push their personal agendas, and not with humility to learn their jobs," wrote Deborah Kalina, a former member of the school board, in a recent guest editorial that appeared in the York Daily Record.

The diversity report apparently relied heavily on information provided by the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) to stoke opposition to the Susquehannock Warriors mascot. The powerful Washington, D.C.-based lobbying group is supported by taxpayer dollars and by left-wing activist groups.

It’s the same group that led efforts to encourage the NFL’s Washington, D.C. franchise — now the Commanders — to change its name from the Redskins, while also targeting hundreds of other sports-team images around the nation.

The NCAI, a major Native American rights organization, has taken a strong stance against the use of Native American imagery.

The NCAI "has tracked the retirement of more than 200 unsanctioned Native ‘themed’ mascots since 2019, and has supported legislation banning the use of these mascots in multiple states," the group said in a statement to Fox News Digital in Sept. 2023.

Gil Birmingham - Comanche

Gil Birmingham, an American actor of Comanche ancestry, has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry with his versatile acting skills and compelling screen presence. Born on July 13, 1953, in San Antonio, Texas, Birmingham's journey into the world of acting is a story of talent coupled with dedication.

 Before stepping into acting, Gil pursued a different path. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Science from the University of Southern California and worked as a petrochemical engineer. However, his passion for the arts led him to a drastic career change, driven by his love for music and performance.

 His acting career began in the 1980s. He initially appeared in small roles on television shows, gradually building his reputation as a reliable character actor. His early roles were often stereotypical Native characters, a common trend in Hollywood at the time. However, his skill and presence allowed him to bring depth and authenticity to these parts, making a lasting impression on audiences and casting directors alike.

 He gained widespread recognition for his role as Billy Black in the "Twilight" saga. His portrayal of the Quileute Tribal elder and father figure in this blockbuster series brought him international fame. The role highlighted his ability to convey complex emotions and added a layer of gravitas to the fantasy series.

 Beyond the "Twilight" series, Birmingham has appeared in numerous films and television series, showcasing his range as an actor. He has taken on diverse roles in projects like "Wind River," "Hell or High Water," and the television series "Yellowstone." His performances are often praised for their intensity and authenticity, bringing depth to every character he portrays.

 Aside from his acting career, he is known for his advocacy for Native rights and representation in the media. He often speaks about the importance of accurate and respectful portrayal of Native in film and television. His work in this area is driven by a desire to see more nuanced and diverse representations of Tribal people in mainstream media.

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Redwood Valley Little River Band of Pomo Indians

The Redwood Valley Little River Band of Pomo Indians (Redwood Valley Rancheria) is a federally recognized Indian tribe located in Redwood Valley, Mendocino County, California. For several thousand years the Tribe’s ancestors lived along the West Fork of the Russian River, located north of Calpella, CA. The Tribe interacted with other Pomo tribes located within the Russian River watershed, the Eel River watershed, and tribes found along the coasts of the Clearlake and the Pacific Ocean.

 Much was lost with the advancement of European settlers before and after the California Goldrush.  In 1908 Redwood Valley Rancheria was established as a home for "Homeless Indians." However, In 1958 the United States Congress terminated Redwood Valley Rancheria and many other tribes by enacting the California Rancheria Termination Act. In 1983 this act was declared illegal as a result of the Tillie Hardwick, et al. v. United States of America, et al. Case. Redwood Valley Rancheria and many other rancherias had their tribal status restored.

 The Redwood Valley Little River Band of Pomo Indians is a sovereign indian tribe with the powers of self-governance. Its tribal members elect a Tribal Council which acts as the governing body. The Council is authorized to write and enact ordinances and resolutions, conduct tribal business, and perform other actions that are commonly delegated to local governments.

​Today, Redwood Valley Rancheria has 159 acres of land in trust. It manages a wide array of social, educational, environmental and infrastructure programs. Click on the menu above to find out more about these programs.

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