After being canceled in 2017, the biennial “State of the Relationship” address returned to the state Capitol Thursday.
The address was given by Spirit Lake tribal chairwoman Myra Pearson.
In her speech, Pearson talked about one of the significant challenges faced by her tribe – including drug abuse, which she said has contributed to high rates of child abuse and neglect, and has led to an increase in violent crime on the reservation. She said the Tribe needs resources to intervene in trafficking and possession of drugs – and for addiction treatment.
"Currently, the Tribe is operating with a skeletal BIA (Bureau of Indian Affairs) law enforcement service," Pearson said. "There are also minimal mental health services, as well as minimal outpatient addiction treatment."
Pearson said to combat what she termed that "crisis," the Tribe is looking for all available resources.
"We want to hold accountable those who bring these substances to our community, and support the measures that heal individuals and families impacted by addiction," Pearson said.
Pearson said she hopes the collaborations between the state and the tribes will continue. She said there’s been some progress in terms of issues like taxation.
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Meanwhile, in his "State of the State" address Thursday afternoon, Gov. Doug Burgum highlighted the improved relationship between the Tribal and state governments.
Burgum served as chairman of a Tribal Taxation Committee. It featured state officials, Legislative leaders and Tribal representatives. And Burgum said he's happy to see that there are Legislative proposals to implement the work of that committee.
And in a show of the improving relationship, Burgum announced that the flags of the five Tribal nations will be displayed in the Capitol's Great Hall, just outside the Governor's office.