Chairman

December 2024 Chairman's Report

Aaniin Boozhoo Gaa-waabaabiganikaag
Niminwendam Waabaminaan!
Manidoo-Giizisoons
Aaniish inaa akawe ninga-gaagiizomaag aadizookaanag.
Weweni-sago-na
Greetings White Earth Nation I am Happy to See You!
It is December, Little Spirit Moon.
Everyone Be Safe.

The December moon is called Manidoogiizisoons,
meaning the “Little Spirit Moon.” This moon usually starts with large rings around Nookomis, Grandmother Moon, and carries a special story of reflection, wisdom, and quiet strength. As winter’s chill settled over the land, the trees
lost their leaves, the rivers froze, and animals prepared for the long, cold months. The people gathered by their fires, sensing the quiet of the season, and felt the call of Gichimanidoo, the Great Spirit. This moon held a special message for our tribal nations—it was time to reflect on the year that had passed and prepare for the renewal to come.

During Manidoo-giizisoons, the elders asked the Anishinaabe to pause, look inward, and listen closely.
It was a time for the people to reflect on their actions, their choices, and their relationship with the world
around them. In the stillness of winter, the elders spirits of the past and present could be felt the most during
biboon. The cold of the season reminded the people to slow down, rest, and miigwechwendam, giving
thanks for all the experience over the year.

One year, a young girl named Aki-Ikwe felt troubled as the Little Spirit Moon arrived. She had made
many mistakes that year—arguing with friends, being careless, and losing sight of what mattered. As she sat
with her grandmother by the fire, she felt uncertain about what the Little Spirit Moon meant for her.
Her grandmother, noticing Aki’s sadness, spoke kindly. “Listen to the wind, little one,” she said.
“Manidoo-giizisoons teaches us that even in our mistakes, we can find peace. The winter stillness helps us
grow. The cold reminds us that we can always begin again.” Aki listened closely, and as she gazed up at the faintly glowing moon, she realized her grandmother was right. She didn’t have to be perfect, but she needed to learn and try again. The Little Spirit Moon taught her that even in darkness and cold, there is room for forgiveness and growth.

From that day on, Aki remembered the lessons of Manidoo-giizisoons. Each December, the people honored
the Little Spirit Moon, knowing that it was a time to pause, reflect, and embrace new beginnings.
The quiet of winter, with its cold and stillness, brought clarity, peace, and the chance for renewal.

White Earth Land Office Dept. Update:
Our White Earth Land Office plays a critical role in managing approximately 85,765 acres on the
White Earth Reservation, expertly balancing development with preservation to ensure the sustainability of
our invaluable resources for future generations. Land is not merely a commodity for our people; it is the
heartbeat of our cultural identity, intimately connected to our practices of hunting, gathering, and community
development. It represents the very foundation of our prosperity and existence.

In the 2024 fiscal year, we made remarkable progress in expanding our land holdings, acquiring
nearly 1,870 acres and two key commercial properties. Since October 2024, we have continued this
momentum, adding an additional 346 acres, with 402 acres and one commercial property currently under
contract. Once these transactions are concluded, we will have acquired over 3,020 acres since Oct. 1,
2023. This impressive growth is instrumental in advancing economic development, supporting village
expansion, and preserving our cultural heritage, while simultaneously creating vital opportunities for wellness
and harvesting initiatives.

Our collaborative efforts with programs such as the White Earth Land Recovery Program have yielded
successful agreements for the transfer of over 121 acres. Additionally, our recent purchase of a cell
tower site in Naytahwaush ensures that our community now has access to essential telecommunications
services. These strategic acquisitions highlight our unwavering commitment to meeting immediate community
needs while laying the groundwork for long term sustainability.

Furthermore, they oversee more than 1,000 leases on tribal land, encompassing homesites, business
leases, and various permits. With the support of the Reservation Business Committee, they have initiated
cleanup efforts for hazardous homesites that endanger our community. A recently hired realty technician has
conducted 150 compliance inspections to address site issues, such as debris and unpermitted structures.
Though these inspections have slightly delayed the opening of new homesites, we are dedicated and optimistic
about making them available by spring 2025.

The White Earth Land Office is resolute in its mission to preserve and expand our land base, cultivate
economic opportunities, and ensure responsible stewardship of our resources. By artfully combining
tradition with progressive growth, we are inspired to forge a sustainable legacy that meets the evolving
needs of our community, securing a bright future for generations to come.

Looking Ahead: A Strong Future for White Earth Nation
As we reflect on the successes of 2024, we also look ahead to a future full of promise and potential.
We remain focused on strengthening our tribal sovereignty, expanding economic opportunities, and ensuring
that future generations inherit a White Earth Nation that is resilient, prosperous, and deeply connected
to its roots. We will continue to advocate for our rights to manage our lands, natural resources, and cultural heritage,
and we will remain at the forefront of opportunities that enhance our ability to provide for our people. Whether through the Tamarac National Wildlife Refuge and White Earth State Forest.

I am grateful for the support of you all, our membership. Together, we are shaping the future of White Earth Nation, one that honors our past while embracing new opportunities for growth and success for our generations to come.

Minobii Niibaa Anama'e Giizhiigad gaye Mino-Biboon Giizhigad
Happy Holidays from my family to yours. Baamaapii wiingezin.
Miigwech bizindawiyeg. Gigawaabamininim naagaj. Take it easy.

Thank you for listening to me.
See you all later.
Chairman Michael Fairbanks