What is Full Circle Really About?
This entry was posted on 9/27/2008 7:48 PM and is filed under Comments.
"Courage is not the absence of fear, but rather the judgment that something
else is more important than fear." Ambrose Redmoon.
I will reiterate that I have been involved in our tribe since 1978. I
am now an elder and I make my own choices. I chose to support Full Circle
and I will continue to do so. I have watched all phases of what has
transpired since Full Circle was formed. In spite of all the
accusations made against David Bean and James Miles, they have faced fear and
held their heads up displaying real courage. They have made our tribe a
better place. They are not out to hurt or destroy anyone. They
invite everyone to their gatherings and sincerely welcome those who attend. They
absolutely do not tell anyone "you are not welcome here" or "this is a private
gathering". They have absolutely not divided our tribe but rather have
brought us together. This the first time in 30 years that our tribe is NOT
divided in spite of efforts of individuals who refuse to accept positive change.
For years I listened to tribal council candidates and members state
that children are our most valuable asset. I advocated for a child abuse
center. I advocated for social services to address the needs of children
who were/are abused It fell to deaf ears until David Bean, James Miles and
Nancy Shippentower Games were on the tribal council. CHILDREN are our most
valuable asset. Isn't it time to address their needs?
I have seen first hand what really happens to children who have been
abused. I KNOW first hand of the horrible stories of children who have
been abused. I have been bringing it to the attention of whoever
will listen. I advocated for a Child Protection Team and was told "We
don't want any thing negative around here." Many individuals would rather
that I just give up and go away. Well, I haven't given up and I haven't
gone away. David, James and Nancy have listened to me and are
working toward creating a child abuse center on our reservation. We
need to provide child abuse victims, family and even the perpetrator
support systems. We need to provide the community with education about
child abuse. We need to acknowledge that child abuse happened and is
happening on our reservation.
Numerous accusations have been made about Full Circle, David Bean, James
Miles and Nancy Shippentower Games. The burden of proof lies with the
accusers yet they have failed to back up their accusations with facts.
Why can't we all just work together in the best interest of all tribal
members instead of attempting to destroy Full Circle and it's
members? Full Circle exists in spite of threats, false
accusations and intimidations. They have "walked their talk" They
continue to walk their path with honesty, sincerity and face each battle head
on. That's what Full Circle is about.
Verna Marie
Bartlett
