Community Healing Statement from the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board

On Monday, July 23, 2012, the Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Governing Board met and discussed the terrible actions that cut through the heart, soul, spiritual and cultural beliefs of our community. Malicious and disgraceful acts of destruction to cultural and religious sites will not be tolerated, we will prosecute to the fullest extent and the Tribe reserves the right to prosecute under Tribal law. We will work close with the Tribal law enforcement, Sawyer County Sheriff and community members to bring the perpetrator to justice.

We will allocate financial assistance to restoring the Big Drum building and lend available resources to make this happen. We are grateful to the Ho Chunk Tribe, Lac Vieux Desert and Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe for their financial pledge to help in the restoration of the building. Also we applaud the community support that has come forward to help in the restoration process. We further extend a helping hand to the other individuals who lost property in this wanton destructive act.

This terrible act was a traumatic and painful blow to Lac Courte Oreilles and tensions run high but let this not divide our community. Some many hurt longer than others however as we work through the grief and loss, let's remember to strive for a spirit of unity and healing. May our creator grant us the wisdom and ability to coexist with respect, tolerance, and love.

Community Meeting — July 30, 2012 at 12 p.m.

On Monday, July 23, 2012 the Tribal Governing Board Met with a few members of the Elder Council and community in regard to the desecration of the Big Drum Building and other ceremonial sites. The Council and participants determined another meeting inviting the Lac Courte Oreilles Community must occur and should focus on healing and rebuilding our community spirit.

The community meeting is scheduled for 12 p.m. on Monday, July 30, 2012 at the Tribal Pavilion; a light lunch will be served. In the event of rain the alternate site will be the Peter Larson Room in the Tribal Office. Tribal member employees will be allowed work release time to attend the community meeting.

The purpose of the meeting is solely to establish steps toward healing our community. If you have other topics or concerns they can be addressed at the General Membership meeting at 9 a.m. on August 25, 2012 at the Casino Bingo Hall.