The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe proudly asserts its inherent right to self-government as a sovereign nation. This principle guides their interactions with state and federal entities, establishing a government-to-government relationship that respects their autonomy and jurisdiction. This commitment to self-determination is deeply rooted in their history and continues to shape their present and future.
The operational framework of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s government is defined by its constitution, ratified on April 24, 1959, by the Tribal Council. This council serves as the governing body and is composed of dedicated individuals elected by the tribal members. At its helm is the Chairman, who provides crucial leadership and administrative direction. Supporting the Chairman are the Vice-Chairman and Secretary, alongside fourteen council members. This structure ensures broad representation, with one member elected from each of the eight districts within the reservation and an additional six at-large members chosen by the tribe as a whole. These positions are filled through democratic elections, with tribal members entrusting leaders to serve four-year terms.
The composition of the Tribal Council is designed to ensure diverse representation and local accountability. While six of the fourteen council members can reside anywhere within the reservation, irrespective of district or state boundaries, the remaining eight are required to be residents of the specific district they represent. The at-large council members, elected by the entire tribal population, further enhance this broad representation, ensuring that various perspectives are included in tribal governance. This system balances district-level concerns with the overall welfare of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.
The Tribal Council adheres to a regular meeting schedule to conduct the tribe’s business. Regular sessions are held on the first Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday of each month, providing a consistent platform for decision-making and deliberation. Additionally, committee meetings are scheduled during the second week of each month, allowing for focused discussions on specific areas of governance. The last Monday of each month is dedicated to gaming-related matters and other essential tribal business, demonstrating the comprehensive approach taken by the Tribal Council in managing the tribe’s affairs.
The responsibilities of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Tribal Council are extensive and vital to the well-being and prosperity of the tribe. These duties encompass:
- Real Property Management: The council diligently manages the tribe’s real property, including trust lands, ensuring responsible stewardship of these valuable assets for current and future generations.
- Business Ventures: The Tribal Council actively engages in diverse business ventures, fostering economic development and self-sufficiency for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and its members.
- Ordinances and Enforcement: Crucially, the council is empowered to pass and enforce ordinances. These regulations are designed to promote the general welfare of tribal members, protect the environment, and ensure public safety within the reservation boundaries, reflecting the tribe’s commitment to a secure and healthy community.
- Contractual Agreements: The Tribal Council enters into contracts for both business and governmental needs. These agreements are essential for facilitating operations, securing resources, and building partnerships that benefit the tribe.
For those seeking further information and transparency, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe provides access to records of their governance. Meeting minutes are publicly available online, offering insights into the council’s deliberations and decisions. You can access the Tribal Council Meeting Minutes Archive for a deeper understanding of the tribe’s governmental processes. This commitment to transparency reinforces the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s dedication to accountable and open governance, serving its members and upholding its sovereign responsibilities.
