[lockjaw02]

My pleasure. I've done my time in the military and have sworn to defend the Constitution from all enemies, both foreign and domestic. The various tribes recognized under the enumerated powers of the Federal government are definitely not enemies, but sovereign entities with whom we have made various agreements, and those should be revered.

Thanks for the link. I have to admit, I've been far too ignorant about many issues affecting Native Americans. Always looking for the opportunity to learn more.

[Chad Fairbanks]

I've done my time in the military and have sworn to defend the Constitution from all enemies, both foreign and domestic.

I think many people would be surprised to know how many indians have ALSO done that - did you know that 1 in 4 american indian males are military vets? ;0)

The various tribes recognized under the enumerated powers of the Federal government are definitely not enemies, but sovereign entities with whom we have made various agreements, and those should be revered.

Agreed. Most indians pay federal income taxes, and state income taxes if applicable, so I really don't understand what all teh hullabaloo is about. Apparently the out-of-control spending of various states has cause tehm to look for more revenue generation, and the various states have no right to levy taxes on indians and indian business without congressional approval, so naturally they are ticked... I guess controlling the spending is out of the question. ;0)