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| Red Lake Net News Michael Barrett P. O. Box 80 Redby, MN 56670 Telephone: 218-679-5995 |
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| The following letters and emails were received by rlnn.com. On behalf of the Red Lake Nation, we thank you all sincerely for your thoughts, prayers, kindness and concerns. |
| My heart is heavy with sadness for your community. As the old ones have said, “There is no death, only a changing of worlds.” My prayers and thoughts are with you during this time of mourning. Monica Thomas |
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| Page 8 |
| From the National Museum of the American Indian, Washington, D.C. Dear Native Friends and Colleagues, Many of you have articulated the need to express your heartfelt concern and support for the Red Lake Band of Chippewa Indians in the wake of last week's tragedy on their reservation in Minnesota. Rick West, the Director of the Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian, is offering the NMAI Mall Museum Potomac Rotunda as a venue to show local support for the Red Lake Community this Friday, April 1 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. through the spirit of an Honor Dance (intertribal style). The Honor Dance is a common way many Native peoples show support for community members (in good times and in difficult times). Participants are welcome to dress in regalia or other appropriate attire (shawls, etc.) - optional. Black Bear singers are offering their services. Even though this event will occur during open museum hours, it will not be advertised publicly. Visitors to the museum are welcome to watch and/or participate with the understanding that this is not a regular public program, and they will be asked to be respectful of this activity. Rick West will preside over this function. Representatives from the Red Lake Tribal Council were contacted regarding the appropriateness of the Honor Dance at the museum as a way of showing support for their community, and they have expressed their endorsement of this gesture. Sincerely, Jim Pepper Henry (Kaw/Muscogee) Assistant Director for Community Services Thomas W. Sweeney (Citizen Potawatomi Nation) Director of Public Affairs National Museum of the American Indian Office of Public Affairs 4th Street and Independence Avenue, SW Washington, DC 20024-0934 (202) 633-6613 (202) 633-6920 fax www.AmericanIndian.si.edu |
| Hello Mike, I seen this on your Red Lake web site. I would like to make a donation to the Red Lake Nation Memorial Fund. Will you accept a personal check or do I need to send a money order for the donation amount? Also, I have a favor to ask of you. Looking at the Red Lake web site, I was in Army basic training in Jan. 1966 with a person from the Red Lake reservation. After viewing those who served in the military, I came across a name and picture I recognized - Clifford Hardy. I see he is on the council. I would like to know if he was in basic training at Fort Hood Texas in Jan.to March of 1966. Or if he has an email address, I would like to send a note to him. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those families who lost family members in this tragic event! Thank you, Gary Davidson |
| I know that I am just one of many live, that was affected emotionally by the recent tragedy of the Red Lake High School. Although I did not personally know any of the victims or their families, I did have the privilege to know some people from within the Red Lake Nation. I work on the Leech Lake Reservation, so this whole thing was a little too close to home. My heart hurts for those that lost a family member, a loved one, and a friend. We- as native people are all brothers and sisters, no matter whether we are Cree, Chippewa, Navajo, Canadian Indian, it doesn't matter...because we are all the same. We breath the same air. When we bleed, the color of our blood is red. As I sat at work on March 21, 2005- I heard the calls for assistance from neighboring and nearby law enforcement agencies. I sat and listened helplessly from my location. My heart and prayers go out to all the people of the Red Lake Nation and community. I have enclosed a poem that came to me through my feelings. If this helps any of you in any way, I am glad, if not...then maybe just maybe it can offer you a moment of peace and serenity. UNTITLED Oh Great Spirit Hear my prayer For all our Nations In your care. We come from near And we come from far Yet deep within We all come from your heart. For our brothers and sisters We surely do grieve And from within our hearts We also do bleed Blue is the liquid that pumps through our viens Together as one Nation Let us not forget their names. Daryl and Michelle Were the first to go Together they died This we know. Derrick Brun, they say Was brave and true he gave his life While protecting the kids of the school. The next names and order I do not know... Still puzzled and dazed at why so many lives had to go. Neva Rogers~ A teacher well liked Protected her students By paying the ultimate price. Channelle Rose Bear~ Only 15... They say she was athletic And part of the team. Alicia White~ So sweet and young She truly loved her family And knew how to have fun. Dewayne Lewis Jr~ Loved basektball they say I am sure some admired him And now they will miss his play. Chase Lussier~ A nice young man Became a first time daddy He was doing the best as he can. Thurlene Stillday~ THey say she liked to share stories As she rests in peace Let's all remember her at her best of glory. Jeffrey Weise~ Was the last to go No one recognized the signs Of his lost and lonely soul. Tragedy and Innoncence Here are one in the same As All will mourned But we will never forget their names. To those that are still here And made it through alive My bleesings and prayers are with you As are the tears that I have cried. Personally~ I may not have known you And maybe I never will Just remember that the nightmare is over Now is the time to be Strong and Perservere. I hope that somewhere in your hearts, as you read what I have to say...Maybe this will touch your lives the way it has touched me. Thank you for your time and Much Love to all my brothers and sisters...... Ah Wah Nu Quay aka Lauren Purley. 03-30-05 |
| May I express my heartfelt sorrow at the events that have taken place among your people. I also wish to express my feelings concerning the arrest of Mr. Jourdain's son, Louis. It would seem that they are trying to make a case based on conversations and e-mails between Jeffrey and Louis. This does not make Louis a co-conspirator. I pray that there be no injustice done to compound the horror of these sad events. Perhaps instead there will be a focus on the disparities that we live with in this "the seat of democracy". I have forwarded a letter to Mr. Jourdain to express my support. God be with you, Pennsylvania Grandmother, Theresa Comerford |
| Wunnekesuk To all Red Lake Tribal Community Members, I wish to send my profound condolences and prayers to your entire community after this terrible tragedy. Believe me when I tell you that there has been a shock felt around the world, most especially throughout Indian Country. As hard as it is, you must be strong and help your fellow community members in their time of need. This is the time when Creator will call on you to be at your strongest, more so than you probably ever thought you could be. And native people have always had to be strong, it is our way of life to survive, and it is why we as a people are still here today. It will be very easy to let many things get to you, get under our skin, make you angry, perhaps even get you down, or cause you to quarrel with one another. But what you must always remember is that the Red Road is one of community and one of caring for one another, and has always been this way. Whether you are Chippewa or Wampanoag, all native peoples have had a stake in the well-being of their peoples, not just of the individual. And in today's society, we seem to be drifting further and further away from those "original instructions" as poet and musician John Trudell calls them, but they are not completely lost, and must never become so. Take comfort in the knowledge that ALL native peoples are feeling your pain and sorrow, it is the pain of all our peoples, shared among us no matter how far or near from your own community we may be. We are all standing with you during this, your time of grief, and we wish you all the strength and courage possible to move forward. You are in our hearts and in our blessings. We stand beside you now, and always. Jason Turner Mashpee Wampanoag Nation |
| Dear People of Red Lake, My deepest condolences on the loss of your loved ones, and on the evil and violence that has visited your community. I am so sorry. I will be praying for your recovery, which I know will take concerted effort and much time. (I live in the community of Littleton, Colorado, where Columbine High School is located.) I'm also sending support to you all at RLNN. You, and other news organizations there, have a big job in covering this tragedy well for your community. I did the same in Littleton as a reporter for the Columbine Community Courier. Hang in there! Also, the people at Columbine United Church are praying for your community. On our altar we have placed a sculpture of two hands cupped, holding a columbine flower in honor of your community. With deepest sympathy, Caren S. Boddie |
| As I read about the events unfolding, photograph slideshows, and all the media surrounding you, our Northern relatives, our hearts ached with yours. You have all been in our prayers, whether through inipi ceremonies or pipe ceremonies. Our tribal high school on Friday, March 25, 2005 held an assembly in your honor, as well as honoring the son of our principal who died the previous Monday. A prayer song was sang as students from Pyramid Lake Jr/Sr High School, (all Native American) made a prayer circle for all of you. Please know you are all thought of. Sincerely Pyramid Lake Jr/Sr. High School Pyramid Lake Paiute Reservation Nixon, Nevada |
| My heart goes out to all the members of the Red Lake Chippewa People for the burden they carry today. As a member of the Meskwaki Nation of Tama, Iowa, I realize what happened could happen anywhere in Indian Country today. Such is the Country that has been made for us by others. Our Country, our Land. My prayers go out to all the people of Red Lake. Please, stay strong. Indian people everywhere need your strength. Fred Youngbear |
| Dear Michael, I was given your email address by a friend stating that I could pass my feelings for the Red Lake Nation through you. I hope this is correct. I am praying for your people and my heart wants to do something to help, though I do not know how to do that. Please, if there is any way you find that we could help, let me know. I am originally from Colorado and my friends had children wounded at Columbine. Please put me on your email list if you have one, for help or prayer requests or whatever you will feel I can do. My heart is your nations right now and all of my thoughts and prayers are for you. Annie Smith |
| My family and I would like to extend our deep sadness and sorrow for all of the families that were affected by such a horrific act of violence that took place on the Red Lake Nation. Those children and adults should never be forgotten. And lets not use their death as a stepping-stone to ousts Tribal Chairman Floyd Jourdain Jr. If his son Louis is guilty, then let the courts try him. Right now everything is mere speculation. The papers have him guilty by association, because he was friends with Jeff Weise. We as parents can’t control everything that our children do. And we should not have to suffered for the sins of our children. Something good always follows something bad, and hopefully something good will prevail upon the children of Red Lake from this tragedy. Ever child has to have hope not despair. If a child wanders around aimlessly, then trouble is his companion. Give him something to do, something that will make him proud of who he is. They are the future leaders of our Great Nation. Take one from each district and let him/her attend council meetings as a member of the council and listen to what they have to say about what their peers would like to see done. Let Louis Jourdain have his day in court and let Tribal Chairman Floyd Jourdain be a concerned father and leader of our people. Michael E. O’Neill |
| ....I was born and raised in Northern Minnesota, and my heart hurts for everyone at Red Lake right now.... my condolences. Keith Haugen |
| To all of the Red Lakers, My name is Neil Bigboy and i am currently living in Fort Walton Beach Florida but i am originally from The Bad River reservation in Odanah, Wisconsin. I heard of the tragedy that struck you all. From my entire family and all of my friends i want to offer you our condolences and wish the best to you all in the future. Just remember forgiveness is a huge part of a tragic time like this especially when young people are involved. Men of the families of Red Lake please don t cry. Be strong for your women and children they need you now more than ever. Jeff Wiese may the great spirit please soothe your hurting soul. Once again I am very sorry for everything that has occured. This event is felt across the whole indian country. I am going to leave a good quote for the familes this was in a song by my favorite band. "Life is short, but sweet for certain." Dave Mattthews Band From the whole Bigboy family |
| Prayers and sympathy for the people of Red Lake Nation. Steve Cox Arkansas |
| To The Red Lake Community I would like to send my deepest sympathies to all affect by this terrible tragedy. Always remember the good times that you had and the time you had together, we will all see one another again. Remember that God never gives you more than you can handle, even though it may be unbearable now, the pain will fade slowly as time goes on. Trust in God for he is always there for you to help you along your way. Be strong and keep your faith, you are a strong community that needs one another right now. You will forever be in my thoughts and prayers. Stay Strong, you will make it through this trying time. Bonnie Lodermeier Goodhue, MN |
| Boozhoo Mike, This letter is to offer my condlolences to all the Red Lake Anishshinabeg . Words can't describe the tradegy that happened to our resevation and all the people not only that but to all of us as a Tribe. This boy sent a message even though it was tradgic he was to be heard. This just goes to show we as a Tribe but also as a nation need to stop and listen to our youth. My elders always told me that every time something happens its always for a reason and I believe this is a wake up call for the whole world as well as all nations because this could have happened any where but the Monidoo saw it happeneing right at home in Red Lake. My heart goes out to these families and the great spirit does heal in time. As a nation and Tribe we can not give in to hatred of one another because the dominat society has done that to us and all tribes for years. It saddens my heart this young man spoke of our people not knowing our own langauge and hes right about that and we were stripped of that as well as brainwashed by the christian beliefs. I have always confided with many elders and we as a nation have to go back to our traditional ways and make peace with ones self with internal issues that effect us all/ This young man displayed this to the world. I just hope and pray I can continue to learn the anishshnbe laguage and keep on my path with the medicine lodge and always have that open for my grand children and the future grand children i have yet to have. May the moniidoo give you peace in your heart and time to heal deep hurts for all our people. Miigwitch Nizhoo_ binesii_kwe Kimberlly Thompson- Branchaud |
| My heart absolutely breaks for what your community is going through. I am disappointed in but not surprised at the lack of attention and care from George W. I want you to know that you all are in my thoughts and prayers every day. I hope you can heal from this unthinkable tragedy. Kristine |
| Michael, Thank you! Also, please send our prayers. Mitakuye Oyasin, Joe |
| Dear Red Lake Community, I work in a middle school in Jacksonville, Fl. My heart hurts and my soul mourns for all whose lives were forever changed because of the tragedy. Just wanted you to know, your loss has affected more than just your community. We are one people, we suffer together, and we rejoice together. Blessings, Judith Taylor |
| Dear Red Lake Community, I work in a middle school in Jacksonville, Fl. My heart hurts and my soul mourns for all whose lives were forever changed because of the tragedy. Just wanted you to know, your loss has affected more than just your community. We are one people, we suffer together, and we rejoice together. Blessings, Judith Taylor |
| Dear Members of the Red Lake Nation, My husband and I send you heartfelt condolences and wish you healing from your grief. We are so sorry that your beautiful and proud nation has suffered this tragedy. Our words cannot ever express our sympathy. You are strong people. We honor the those you've lost, and your great love for them. We wish you healing balm and peace. In tears and great respect, Amy and Art Ponomarev |
| I call myself Red Brother. I am a Lakota. The day those shootings took place, I recall a very strange thing in the air. I felt tense in the body and witnessed a few harsh arguments. I found out about the shootings, as I listened to the radio the next morning. People from different walks of life are wondering why this would happen on a reservation, or in Indian Country, for that matter? I'm not sure what to tell them. But I do know one thing. It is a wake up call to all people. To ask why such things, outside of our Indigenous languages and ways, are on our Reservations and why they are not being talked about more is a very curious question in my mind. I have family members who knew Jeff as a little boy and they speak well of him. I for one am very, very concerned how this could have happened. I know the tragedy of his own family and the effect it may have had on his mind, but who got a hold of his mind? This is the problem that troubles me the most. Why did this happen? There is no answer. I am saddened to hear of these shootings and ask the Creator to give strength to all of those affected the most by this thing. Peace and strength inside of each of you, goes with you. Walk in peace. RED BROTHER |
| I just want you and your people to know that I feel deep sadness in my heart for your community, its families and its individuals. It is a truly sad time for your people when they choose to emulate the despair and pain in the youth of America. It is in some ways more surprising that none have gotten to this inner rage sooner given what we, the white people, have done in the name of democracy not only to your people but, also peoples of many faiths and colors around this planet. As the tragedy and pain within your own hearts is pounced upon by the media and we of the general public, I apologize. But, I couldn't help but want to reach out from this side of the color aisle and send you a message. The tragedy and loss in your community speaks to a greater part of me than white children getting angry and killing. It speaks to a history of being dishonored and disrespected while trying to hang onto pride in a culture. It speaks to trying desperately to believe while everything around you is telling you that you are not worth believing in. When my so called white brethern speak of the many obstacles facing the native nation with a sense of self righteous blame, I feel ill. I wonder how they would do if a heavy handed, dishonest tyranny came and took away everything they believed in and fought for. I wonder how they would Stand if they were locked within the confines of that new world which spoke with beautiful words and acted with terrible deeds. I think they wouldn't last very long without a great deal of social problems. I admire the Red Lake Nation for standing long and strong against America's way of doing things. This joining of our world is one that I wish I could pray away but, I cannot. So, I offer you and your people my tears and hope that you choose to never be like us again. Sheri Dinguss |
| I was raise near the reservation near Cloquet and had many friends that I had grew up with. We had a tight knit friendship upon the Martenau, Greensky, Reyoulds, Defoes, Moose's and more near the baycliff area. These where my friends and brothers. Though I was not even .010 percent native, I was treated as a brother. I am very sorrowed by the situation of my friends in the north on the loss of our family. The White American culture and it's freedom to discover has given our people the resourses to progress and go beyond to learn what the world has in it's hatred to offer. It seem's that we are destand to learn no matter what we wish we would love to carry on and bring from the past to our present and preserve. I wish to go to the lake this spring and go to our native brothers in giving a offering and ask to look over our nation's and bring to them the understanding of our mother to set things on the right path once again. If this takes many attempts, then this will be done. Steven |
| Nicki Stiltner <nickena@naxs.net> wrote: I’m not sure if you can help me or not. I’m trying to locate my half sister Bonita Lois Hill. Her mother was Bonnie Hill, can you tell me how I can do that or maybe can you help me. Nicki |
| To The Red Lake Nation....please know that "healing" energies are being sent, with this email, for all of you....and many prayers "in smoke". I was greatly saddened, when I heard of the events that took many lives, and shook your community to the core. Your Cherokee sister, Jes Rountree, of Oostburg, WI and Hector, AR |
| Dear Red Lake Net News, I am a 15 year old girl in northern California who has deep concern for the people of Red Lake at this time of sorrow. I have already been in contact with some fellow Indian brothers and sisters who are musicians and also have concern. I know that they are planning some benefit concerts, but I still think that there is someway that people like me can help as it is placed in my heart. I know that there is a Steve Cobenais fund set up, but I was also wondering if there was anything I could do for Jeff May and his family. If you have any ideas, or know of a fund set up for Jeff may also or anything else you know that the people of Red Lake may be in need of please let me know. Me and my fellow students plan to help in anyway that we can. even addresses where I can send cards. you can respond to this email address. thank you very much. Sincerely, Liz |
| TO THE RED LAKE BAND OF CHIPPEWA I am so saddened by the school shooting and subsequent events on your reservation. Karri Plowman wrote in the St. Paul Pioneer Press, 'Remember this first as a tribal nation tragedy'. I agree with him. But, second, it is also a tragedy for the whole USA, just as all the school shootings that came before. Many people across this country, just like me, are mourning your loss, your beautiful children, with you. I also read in the Pioneer Press that, back in the 1800s, while other tribes in Minnesota were ceding land to the government, the leadership of the Red Lake Bandof Chippewa resisted. As a result you are one of only two tribes in the USA to have your own constitution, laws and courts. How strong and wise were your forefathers to accomplish that! My wish for your tribe is that you can reach deep inside yourselves and draw on the strength and wisdom of your ancestors now. My heart is on the ground. Janet Levy Little Canada, MN |
| Our heartfelt sympathies go to you and yours! We are almost as devastated as you are. (No one will know 100% what you are going through!) All that can be said right now is Keep on Keeping on and just know there will be many praying for God's peace! In His Grip, Ilah Hardesty |
| Just a short note to extend our condolences to your community (and in particular the families who lost loved ones) after the horrible events of yesterday. I have a 13 year old daughter (who will start high school next year) and a 16 year old son (in grade 11) - we all heard the news as we started our day today. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Sincerely, Peter, Kathryn, Devon and Mary Alicia Millar Wolfe Island, Ontario, Canada |
| (Please also pass this on to Chairman Jourdain, Miigwech) Ahniin Brothers and Sisters, We are sooooo very sorry to hear about your tradgey and deaths of your People. Your People are Our People also. We grieve and hurt with you. We feel your great sorrow. Know that we are crying and praying for those who suffer today. We are asking the Creator and Grand Chief Jesus to give mercy and grace to all of you. Please accept our sama placed down for you and our love. In Love, Clarence and Christine (Shawano) Cadreau Elders and Family Sault Sainte Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan |
| Dear Honorable Tribal Members of Red Lake of the Chippewa Indians, It is with great sadness of the hearing and seeing of one of our own, becoming to a volatile agenda on March, 21, 2005. I am from the Bad River Band Lake of the Superior Chippewa Indians from Wisconsin. My family's heart and soul go to the entire tribal community for those who have been taken from our earth. This is a very emotional time for us. Together we will heal and together we will soar higher than ever with the Eagles again. This is just a temporary infliction of pain in our feathers. Rest assure, we will soar higher than ever now. I am taking the time to write to you and express my concerns in this case and demeanor of the News Media. I am deeply sadden to see and have the Chippewa Native American Indian's name used along the name of "Neo-Nazi". I urge you to ask that the media to refrain from using and or comparing us (OUR) name affiliated with Neo-Nazi's. It is understandably saddening to see and hear that ten of our brothers and sisters have been taken. Let us not cast the stone upon a innocent person that was ill. We will never know, why or how come this person took the innocent lives of others. However, you must not forget the person who inflicted this pain upon our communities was a BROTHER OF OUR COMMUNITY as well in each of the Nations. But nonetheless he was still a member of your and our brotherhood. I ask that you still defend this person with honor and integrity, even though who inflicted pain. Please respect our Nations legacy. Please DO NOT ALLOW THE NEWS MEDIA to make this out that all Native's are "insane", "unstable", and or "sick'. Please take into consideration that being accepted into the white man's community is hard. It is the tale of two sides. Go to school on an Indian reservation and then once you go off the reservation you are faced with the white man way's. Native American's are suppose to be free. However, with today's society radical, hate and poking fun at Native's are common. Pressure of adapting to society does build up. I also seen on the news that Red Lake is the "poorest" Indian Reservation in Minnesota according to the United State Census. THIS IS NOT TRUE. This is the financial part of it. All the riches of the world are there. The stars, the true part of yours and our heritage. Please, do you see how this is and all builds up against the Chippewa name. Do you see how another person would automatically think; that the Indian's are "poor", "unstable" and "crazy". What was inflicted upon you inside your community has no words. I can not begin to describe what you feel. I can not begin to understand the grieving that you have. I can not begin to imagine what the Student's thoughts were at that time. WE ARE STRONG PEOPLE. WE ARE STRONG NATIVE AMERICANS'. WE HAVE SURVIED AND MADE DUE ALL THESE YEARS WITHOUT THE WHITEMAN'S HELP. PLEASE AND I SAY THIS PLEASE DO NOT LET WHAT HAS TAKEN US SO LONG TO BUILD UP IN OUR COMMUNITY, HOMES, STATE AWAY IN JUST A MATTER OF A SECONDS BY THE NEWS MEDIA. I ask that you STRONGLY urge the News Media to refrain from stereotyping all Native American's as a "NEO-NAZI". I am greatly sorry once again for your communities lose. But please understand that the person was apparently ill from a disease. BUT PLEASE AND I SAY THIS HE WAS A BROTHER TO OUR PEOPLE. He had the same blood as you and I. As I mentioned, this is a sore in our eagles feathers at this time. However, we (your community) will heal and we (your community) will soar high again with the mother and father of this earth. Once again, Your hour of darkness; will become brighter than ever. My prayers and sympathy go out to your community. I am going to be following this case closely to make sure that All Native American's are treated fairly. I do this because I have lost ten brother's and sister's of our own blood. I do this for the PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE of our Tribes. If you would like to talk about this in person please email me at JAMESHALFADAY@hotmail.com or feel free to advise me how to get into contact with you. In Him, James Halfaday Canton, Illinois 61520 |
| Hello, My name is Michael Zephyr and I live in Richmond, CA (SF Bay Area). I just read about the terrible incident at your school. I was very saddened by this and share your grief. My condolences to the victims families, friends, and those at the Reservation. If there is any kind of donations being collected that I can make, please let me know. Regards, Michael Zephyr Visit me at: www.planetzephyr.com |
| Red Lake Shootings 1st off I would like to state my heart goes out to your people and also I'm from the Eastern Sea board, Canada/U.S.A from the Tribe known as Mi'kmaq (Micmac) and we are among the 1st tribe to encounter the non-natives and their many problems. I think the cause of the shootings were due to the occupational forces assimilation on all of 1st Nations across U.S. & Canada. If our tribes practiced, I mean really practiced our traditional ancient ways and teachings, things of this nature would not happen at all. Not one child or youth would fall through our net which would end in such tragedies. Instead we wrongly embrace the non-native systems and this is our greatest error. What we need to do is re-embrace our ancient teachings, and bring pride back to not only the elders but the youths, as well and all those in between, in the non-native systems many things in youths lives go un-addressed. One small example is the Aboriginals of North America have been breed to be born warriors and braves just as an Akita or Tosa Inu (Alpha - Japanese fighting dogs) have these types of warrior spirits born with in them. For eons, 1st Nations were bred to be braves and warriors and there isn't anything in the non-native systems to hone, caress, or cherish these special individuals, instead they are labeled and treated either in cages or with drugs leaving these natural born warriors/braves flapping dangerously in the wind. Just like the Akita or Tosa these special individual will lash back or attack which would result in very serious back lashes to those caught up in their wrath. Our Alpha born first nations are similar to other alpha born Warriors/Braves and very comparable to fighting dogs that have special needs that must be exercised, honored, and honed for the genes that have survived the harshest times of our ancestors past and will continue to fight through our descendants because these spirits and genetically bred alphas are born into them. If this is not done, the implications will be tremendously devastating and disastrous. This genetic breeding was practiced through most of the first nation tribes, if not all throughout North America and to add to this, 1st Nations have been subjected too harsh occupation and only the strongest survived thus adding to only the strongest breed on, creating very spirited alpha individuals that most, if not all, are incapable of understanding these special individuals, even by the finest in modern day psychology. I'm betting my life if these boys and youths were totally embraced with their culture, ancient traditional ceremonies, canoe making, sweat lodge making, pipe ceremonies, story telling, talking circles, or any ancient practice our tribes has to offer our youths much like our ancestors did and successfully balances all in the tribal village…. killings, attacks, stealing, would not take place as it is now on all of our 1st Nation reservations and will, sadly, take place again, it's only a matter of time. Instead of creating a web of our ancient practice and culture we in turn clutter our children lives with foreign teachings from Parasitical intellectuals and teach our youths in this fashion, where teachers (no matter how good of a teacher) have pets and the non-native culture teaches social classes with different groups such as, head bangers, preps, nerds, jocks, and the list goes on through out 1st Nations this is being strangely implemented with out our awareness or care… these social classes are highly detrimental & damaging to born warriors and braves that inherit these traits from ancient selective breeding and bloodlines that still come to be born on all 1st Nations reservations to these very moments and times. We never practiced social classes until recent occupation of our lands and the occupier's assimilation tactics and schooling… now we give birth to these social classes which result in separation & social class, clashing. Our practices to keep track and note of these special individuals have fallen asleep and remains either unnoticed or abandoned while many other races (Japanese lots of Asian cultures for example) and cultures not being so harshly occupied with Apartheids and social classes get to caress, hone and take their time to work with these naturally born fighters, braves and warriors. Now a days we occupy our 1st Nations lives with assimilation and white peoples educational system, political systems, religion and with this I know there will be many more individuals that cannot articulate them selves that will attack or self destruct. This is especially true if we clutter these special individuals with 6 – 8 hours of non-native teachings and assimilations when they could be repatriated in to our 1st Nations ancient culture once again, through elders teachings, research and vigorous practicing of our traditional ways before the non-natives abruptly came in to all of our lives and committed systematic cultural genocide and out right genocide… there will be more back lashes similar to this and this can be plainly seen and predicted, and it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see the back lashes to two cultures colliding as it is taking place on all 1st Nations in North America. This is just a small glimpse and just one example of some of the problems we face as aboriginal and first nations of Canada and USA. There are many more concerns and problems that need to be addressed. Like I stated, this is just one small example, and I see many more problems arisen from us falling to sleep and allowing our ancient wisdoms and teaching slip and fade away from our 1st Nations lives. I however also see ways to heal, hone, and caress many and if not most of our people that still hold these special warrior/brave blood lines and if you have any further questions, or suggestions please email me or contact me with the below information. Our 1st Nation communities are like a tree, we must work with the tender seeds, that sprout roots, then push their way up through the dirt, and then grow many, many branches. If these seeds and roots are not properly embedded then there will be no branches or if at best the tree will be feeble and weak and will be truly incapable of contributing to the world/earth as it was truly meant to be. We must use our ancient teachings passed on for eons to work with our seedlings that are our youths and children, that will help our nations grow to be tremendous trees with many healthy branches that will benefit the earth/world as it was meant to be. My gene pool has also come from Pre-European, hereditary Chief bloodlines and we did not and will not relinquish our titles as the Canadian & American Government sought after, they were successful with many other 1st Nation yet have failed with our specific family in the Mi'kmaq (Micmac) tribe. We also have our Waltes and Wampum belt deeply hidden until recently that hasn't been touched or seen by the occupational forces eyes, so you see not only do I understand these boys that fell through the non-native systems but many 1st Nations communities do care and understand Red Lakes 1st Nation situation, more then many would like to admit… perhaps. I created a saying, the more feathers on a wing, the higher we all shall soar together! Thunderbird Heart, (Keewesoo Clan) AKA Troy Gould Waycobah First Nation, Nova Scotia, PO Box 364 B0E 3M0 Canada |
| To the Families of Red Lake Reservation, I just want you to know how deeply sorry my family and I are that you have to endure this pain. I know this is a very difficult time. Our prayers go out to you and I know the Creator is there with you during this time. I pray that you all have the strength and wisdom to handle the pain as well as all of the outsiders that have come to your community. I pray that this tragedy will bring everyone closer together and not let any harmful influences interfere with what you all have to do to heal. Sincerely, Deanna M. Wagner-Brice Troy, Illinois |
| I must say that i find this whole shooting thing very interesting. Not only because the shooter himself, but because i understand his feelings. And by that i mean that i've had much problems in my life, one of my parents is dead since two years ago.. and so on. I know the feeling of being depressed. But what i can't understand is that he killed so many students. I'm sure, that it will always remain as a mysterious to all of us, all over the world. Leia, Sweden |
| 6 April 2005 Tammy Lussier Red Lake, Minnesota, 56671 Dear Ms. Lussier, Please let me express my sincere condolences to you, your family and the community of Red Lake for the loss and tragedy that has occurred. Words cannot carry the disappointment I feel that the Red Lake community has to experience this senseless violence that has happened in too many places in America. I want to thank you for having the courage to speak up on national TV and point out that your nephew Jeff was on the antidepressant Prozac when he committed those violent acts. Antidepressants like Prozac, Zoloft, Luvox, Paxil, Wellbutrin, etc., have been connected to many acts of violence and suicide in children and adults since 1989 when Prozac appeared on the market. Eric Harris was on an antidepressant before he went on a shooting spree at Columbine High School as was Kip Kinkel when he did the same in Springfield, Oregon. There have been so many violent and suicidal acts committed by people on antidepressants that in December 2004 the U. S. Food and Drug Administration finally had to issue a “black box� warning for all antidepressants pointing out their risk causing suicidality. A “black box� warning is the most serious type of warning in prescription drug labeling. Times are going to be tough in Red Lake for a while. Only the truth will heal those that need healing. By speaking up about Prozac you have already played a big part in helping people realize what the problem is. In Britain virtually all antidepressants have now been banned for use by anyone less than 18 years of age. It took a long time for tobacco companies to admit that smoking causes cancer even though they knew many years earlier just how harmful their product was. Powerful interests have kept these antidepressants on the market despite the tragic events caused at Columbine, Red Lake and elsewhere. Many people are working to bring the truth to light about the dangers of antidepressants. The day when school children will no longer be given these harmful drugs is coming soon. Until then, people need to understand more about the effects of these powerful mind-altering drugs. One of the most factual and useful books is “The Antidepressant Fact Book� by Dr. Peter Breggin. One of the best websites for information about the dangers and side-effects of antidepressants is CCHR.org. After years of investigating, collecting information and reading press reports about school, workplace and military shootings and suicides by people who were on antidepressants, I find the best thing you can do is get educated about this problem and warn all your friends and relatives about it too. Again I am so truly sorry this kind of tragedy had to play out in Red Lake. By stating on national TV that Jeff Weise was on antidepressants I know you rang a warning bell that many parents and relatives heard and I commend you for speaking out when you had the opportunity. Sincerely, Ernest Ryan 9138 Legacy CT. Temperance, MI 48182 |
| As the young mother of a baby son who left to be with our Creator two years ago,I would like to send my deepest condolences and deepest prayers to our neighbours of the Red Lake Nation. Please know and accept that as a Nation, we are a strong and proud people and that the genuine thoughts and prayers that stem across the globe will help in your healing. On behalf of my family, Mrs. Ella S. Martin member of the Walpole Island First Nation Unceded Territory Ontario, Canada |
| I felt that I should let you know...we have changed the donation percentage from 70% to 100%. Please accept this as an honest attempt to assist the Red Lake Nation Mayaakizid Migizi |
| Hello-- I want to thank you for the excellent coverage your site provides on diverse topics, not just the tragedy that occurred at Red Lake Reservation. As many have accused, this has certainly been "under the radar", overshadowed by Terri Schaivo, and also by the lingering illness and expected death of Pope John Paul II. As a native of Northern Minnesota, born in Warroad, I owe my very name to a wonderful Ojibway nurse, Mrs. Lightning, who talked my parents out of naming me "Nancy" and suggested "Susan" (due to my black hair and brown-black eyes) when I was born and convinced my parents that, as is the Indian way, The Brown-Eyed Susan flower would be magnificently honored by my bearing that namesake. I'll be eternally grateful; I'm certainly not a "Nancy" type! I went to high school with Indian kids with associations to Leech Lake and Red Lake, and knew from Warroad. My brothers were best friends with Merle and George Jr (Dordy) Kelly, the sons of the late George Kelly, Sr. who was an agent for the BIA in the 1950s and 1960s. (I had no idea the BIA was quite corrupt!) Thank you so much for your honest and accurate and unbiased reporting of the news from the area. It's where I can go to find out the truth from the area that was my one-time stomping grounds. I went to college when it was BSC not BSU. Ancient history! I felt sad that you had to put in a notice regarding Jeff Weise's obituary. From one thousand miles away, after some days of surfing your site I, personally, knew that you wouldn't do that. Residents, however, are in pain, with gaping and gushing psychological and emotional wounds in the aftermath, and when people are intensely hurting they can discover slights where none were intended a'tall. Which will probably be an ongoing situation. So bless you, Mr. Barrett. I'm sure these have been some of the longest days if your life. As one who's spent 30 years in publishing (500 articles/fiction stories in NY market) and 30 books (several of which had Objiway as 'main characters' because they were set in No. MN and much a part of that experience), plus publishing two different magazines myself over the years, I can, more than most, appreciate your efforts, what with having an insider's view of the responsibility to inform and educate that you've shoulder in life. Well done. Keep up the EXCELLENT work! And finally, when we owned a building downtown, two cousins rented space for their Woods & Waters Outdoor Specialty sporting shop. One of them went off to the FBI and a year ago he was assigned to Minneapolis. Now WE rent from the remaining cousin in a different location, and I haven't happened to see him to learn if Charles (Chuck) is among those working the investigation. If so, I hope that Chuck treats everyone as tremendously as he is known for in his home area. With all good wishes, Sincerely, Susan Feldhake |
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