October 29, 2026
Your Voice, Our Sovereignty
By Michele Palomaki, Constitution Committee Member
The Mille Lacs Band Constitution Delegates Committee continues to gather input from Band members as work moves forward on drafting a new constitution. Community participation remains an important part of the process, and delegates are encouraging Band members to stay involved as drafting sessions continue into early next year.
Delegates continue to conduct community surveys at events throughout the districts. Band members who have already completed a survey are welcome to submit another, particularly if their interests or availability have changed. Survey responses help delegates identify convenient days and times for upcoming drafting sessions and other opportunities for participation.
The committee is also pleased to announce continued support from the Executive Branch. With prior supervisor approval, Mille Lacs Band government employees may use up to two hours of community service time to participate in Constitution Delegates Committee events. The delegates extend a special chi-miigwetch to Commissioner of Administration Gilda Burr for supporting this important work.
MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO PARTICIPATE
In the coming months, delegates plan to hold additional meetings in their home districts, including in-person gatherings and evening Zoom sessions. Because some delegates and Band members work during the day, virtual meetings will provide another way for community members to participate and share their perspectives.
The committee is also seeking additional subdelegates to help expand outreach and keep the constitutional drafting process moving forward. Delegates recognize that returning to each community every eight to 10 weeks leaves too much time between opportunities for engagement. Additional participation will help create more frequent opportunities for discussion.
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION
Work on Article V — Membership and Article I - Sovereignty will remain part of the ongoing discussion. Near the end of each drafting session, delegates plan to revisit sections identified as works in progress, allowing participants to provide additional input even when those articles are not the primary topic on the agenda.
Band members are encouraged to stay for these discussions when possible. Questions and suggestions that cannot be addressed during a session may also help guide future educational opportunities.
The committee is exploring ways to make future gatherings more engaging, including interactive activities such as word bingo. Band members with suggestions for activities that might encourage individuals and families to participate are invited to share their ideas with a delegate.
STAYING CONNECTED
The delegates are working to establish an email contact list to provide monthly reminders, educational materials, meeting announcements, and other updates. Band members may continue to contact the committee at mlbo.delegates@millelacs-band.com.
Finally, the committee extends a special chi-miigwetch to Health and Human Services for inviting delegates to participate in the Elders Conference through a presentation and breakout session.
The Constitution Delegates Committee looks forward to continuing these conversations with Band members throughout the coming months.
Your Voice, Our Sovereignty.
