Myths, rumors and misunderstandings you may have heard about Full Circle

Despite the internet, e-mail and text-messaging, the greatest source of information in our tribe is still good old “word of mouth”. Sometimes however, words can take on a life of their own and become rumors, misunderstandings, or are simply not true. Here is our best effort at dispelling some of the myths we have heard about Full Circle:
MYTH: Full Circle wants to cut our Per-Capitas.
FACT: Full Circle was founded by members that banded together in order to put a stop to Tribal Council’s plans to cut the Children’s Per-Capitas. Full Circle has acted as a “watch dog” for the Tribe when our financial stability has been put in at risk.
MYTH: If Full Circle Candidates are elected, [Somebody-fill in the blank] will loose their job.
FACT: Full Circle supports the authority and accountability of the Tribe’s employed Managers and Directors. We do not believe it is the role of Tribal Council to interfere with the established chain of command and micro-manage departments.
MYTH: Full Circle wants to give jobs and benefits to their people.
FACT: Full Circle wants to put an end to the nepotism and special favors given to friends and supporters of Tribal Council Members. Fairness and equality is the foundation of our Mission.
MYTH: Things won’t be any different if Full Circle Candidates are elected to Tribal Council - they are just another group wanting power.
FACT: Anyone can see that things have already started to change for the better. Full Circle members are committed to a set of principals that, we believe, most all Tribal Members would agree with - including an open and transparent government. We believe that integrity, honesty and service are the foundation of good leadership. These are the traditional values that make us a strong Tribe.

Click to see Video Interview with Nancy Shippentower-Games

Full Circle mission, values and goals:

Our Mission:
Full Circle is committed to traditional values, spiritual teaching, and the health & wellness of our people. Through mutual understanding and respect we promote government reform and fiscal responsibility to ensure survival of future generations. By bringing our community together, enlisting our elders, and nurturing our youth, we will once again achieve a strong, united and balanced tribal community for years to come.

Our Goals/Values:

I. Cultural Education and Preservation of Traditional Ways

a. Spirituality (Love, Hope & Faith) as a Base
b. Elder's Care Center
c. Elder's Programs
d. Longhouse
e. Museum

II. Nurturing Our Youth

a. Youth Care Center
b. Youth Safety
c. Youth Programs
d. Youth Mentoring
e. Higher Education
f. Protecting our Children in Foster Care (Physically, Mentally, Emotionally, Spiritually and Financially)

III. Government Reform

a. Council Accountability
b. Transparent Management of Tribal Programs
c. Constitutional Change
d. Promote Positive Change and Leadership Accountability
e. Committee Member elections
f. Planning for the Future
g. Protecting Tribal Member's Rights

IV. Fiscal Responsibility for the Long Term

a. Include Earmarked Funds for Youth (i.e., 15% annually)
b. Stabalize and Grow PerCapitas
c. Financial Audit of all Tribal Programs and Staff Positions
d. Rainy Day Fund