Why I’m running for Tribal Council?

Why I’m running for Tribal Council? “For Unity and to do what is Right, Just and Fair.”

In the early 90s I served on the Tribal Council for one term. I was just 27 years old when elected and was privileged to sit across the table from many of our wise elders. During my tenure, we had the foresight to set up systems to ensure our Tribe became and remained self-sufficient and never again face termination.

The endowments, contracting services from the BIA and HIS and entering the casino industry are a few of the progressive ideas that we enacted, which changed the trajectory of our Tribe and membership. I look back now and realize that the work we accomplished then directly affects our current membership through per capita, health care, education and so much more. These were right decisions.

It has been 30ish years since I served on Council. I sought election to the Tribal Council in the late 2000s but came up short and to be honest, I thought that door was closed for good. In my mind I had locked that door for numerous reasons, primarily because I’m blessed with a great life and family in Eugene.

So, how did that door get re-opened? Great question. Over the past several years I have been asked if I would consider running for TC again and my immediate answer was always: “No, why would I want to do that? I like my life too much.” All that changed last year, 2023, with a phone call from our Tribal Chairwoman who asked if I would consider running. It hit me like a 2x4 and I realized that I had closed this door but now God was reopening it. I spent the next several days praying, fasting and seeking counsel about this decision and concluded that indeed God was unlocking that door but that 2023 was not the right time. While I felt excitement at the thought of serving the membership in this way, I was also relieved that it would be a future journey for me.

Now fast forward to spring of 2024. I hadn’t thought about running but was again asked if I would consider it. Once more, I spent several days fasting, praying and seeking counsel. I told my wife, Patty, to do the same and we would each write the answer we heard from God on a piece of paper and then compare. We both heard “Yes!”

Serving as a Tribal Council member is a huge commitment. I know it will take sacrifices of time with family and serving at church. I now want to make these sacrifices because I believe the future of our Tribe is worth it and because God has opened this door.

Is it just me or do you feel the divide in our Tribe? Many issues have polarized our membership and our Tribal Council. I believe God, the creator, wants to bless our Tribe. However, it’s only when there is unity and harmony that God can fully pour out his blessing. I will work towards unity on Tribal Council that comes out of deep respect for each member.

There is so much more I would like to share and dialog with you about. Please visit my web page at andyjenness.com or scan the QR code in my campaign ad with your phone. I look forward to hearing from you.

I appreciate your thoughtful consideration and humbly ask for your vote. Spread your support by talking with your friends and family. Let your voice be heard.

Hayu masi,

Andy Jenness

541-517-1255