PORTLAND PRESS HERALD • February 17, 2021
The state of Maine needs a new beginning with the tribes. Maine recognized tribal sovereignty when it signed a treaty with the tribes required by Massachusetts in its articles of separation over 200 years ago. Truth be told, however, Maine did not sign that treaty with good-faith intentions. In order to show good faith in implementing its treaty obligations, the state needs to make room for a fifth constitutional officer. The Office of Tribal Relations, would be a cornerstone in establishing trust between the state and the tribes. We need a new beginning and this could be it. ~ Donna Loring, Penobscot Nation tribal elder