BURKE - Senator Billie Sutton, candidate for South Dakota Governor, today released “Kiwanjila | United as One: A Plan for Stronger Tribal-State Partnerships,” highlighting how he will continue to work together with tribes as governor. The plan is informed by input from tribal members from Sutton’s travel to and meetings with leaders of all nine tribes in South Dakota.
Regarding release of the plan, Sutton said, “I’ve spent 8 years proudly representing Indian Country in the State Senate, I’ve met with leaders from every tribe, and I will continue to listen to and support Native South Dakotans as Governor. We can do better than the status quo, and our best days are ahead of us if we make sure Native and non-Native South Dakotans share in our success.”
Sutton’s plan includes twelve priorities for Indian Country and state-tribal relations:
Tribal Sovereignty
A Strengthened Secretary of Tribal Relations
A Focus on Indigenous American Health Disparities
Provide More Comprehensive Addiction Treatment for Meth, Opioids, and Alcohol
South Dakota Native Youth Suicide Reduction Strategic Plan
Economic Development in Indian Country
Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
Working Together on Closing Jurisdictional Loopholes
Renewed Focus on the Issues that Matter
Open Channels of Communication
Celebrating Culture and Traditions
Record of Cooperation and Partnership
Read the plan here.
Billie Sutton is a rancher, financial professional at a small community bank, State Senator, former professional rodeo cowboy, fifth-generation South Dakotan, and candidate for Governor.
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