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The Tunica-Biloxi Tribe, being a sovereign nation, has the ability to choose its own destiny as have other Indian nations. I personally feel the term, "sovereign Indian nation," is a bit misleading and is misunderstood by many. How can we really believe that we have and enjoy that sovereignty and status of autonomy as long as we are dependent on federal funding for our very existence? While we are grateful for this assistance, we must realize that we should strive to become self-sufficient. This is why our Tribal government has been and is continously seeking viable businesses to enter into, or some industry to locate on the reservation. We feel that this is the next step necessary toward reaching our goal of self-sufficiency. This will provide the employment and revenue for the tribe that is needed to provide those services for our
people that are currently being provided by the federal government. When we reach that goal and sever the federal government’s apron strings, then we can truly say that we are a sovereign nation.
Other projects that are in the planning stages are law enforcement, agriculture and beef production, a Regional Cultural and Learning Center, additional housing, and educational facilities. There remains also the need to provide services to other areas where many of our members reside. In accordance with federal regulations, they cannot benefit from the tribe’s programs as they do not live within a certain radius of the reservation.
I believe that with dedication and hard work, we can achieve all of our goals. The final product will be a better tomorrow for our children, our most valuable resource and the leaders of the fiiture.
The Tunica-Biloxi Indians of Louisiana Tribal Community Center houses the Administration Offices as well as the Tribal Health Department. It is here, also, that the monthly Council Meetings are held. (Photo by Patricia Foster)
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