In a recent development, the Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota has banned Republican Governor Kristi Noem from the Pine Ridge Reservation. This decision comes after Governor Noem expressed her desire to deploy razor wire and security personnel to Texas to address immigration concerns at the U.S.-Mexico border. Tribe President Frank Star Comes Out accused Noem of exploiting the border issue for political gain, suggesting she aims to boost her chances of becoming Donald Trump’s running mate.
President Star Comes Out criticized Noem’s proposed measures, emphasizing that many individuals arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border are Indigenous people seeking employment and a better life. He condemned the idea of using razor wire and separating families, referencing past actions during the Trump Administration. Furthermore, Star Comes Out took offense at Noem’s reference to a gang called the Ghost Dancers, stating that it disrespected the tribe’s sacred ceremony.
Governor Noem responded to the ban, expressing disappointment that politics were injected into discussions about the federal government’s failure to enforce laws at the southern border and on tribal lands. She emphasized her commitment to working together to address these issues and build relationships with Native American tribes.
This incident follows Governor Noem’s past deployment of National Guard troops to the Mexican border and a previous controversy involving a $1 million donation from a Republican donor to cover the costs of deploying troops in 2021. The tribal ban raises questions about the intersection of border security, immigration policies, and Indigenous rights.
The Oglala Sioux Tribe’s decision reflects ongoing tensions between state and tribal authorities, highlighting the complexities surrounding immigration issues and the need for collaborative efforts to address them.
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