Category: Elections

In observance of the Southern Ute Sun Dance, the Permanent Fund, Growth Fund, and SUSS offices will be closed on Monday, July 22, 2024.

Normal business hours will resume on Tuesday, July 23, 2024.

-Summer Begay, Communication Specialist

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Strands of Strength: The Indian Citizenship Act 1924-2024

Thank you for visiting the Stands of Strength: The Indian Citizenship Act exhibit. This exhibit recognizes the strength, resilience, and enduring legacy of the Southern Ute Indian Tribe. This exhibit concludes on Friday, June 28, 2024.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs Southern Ute Agency is advertising for Wildland Firefighter position. The duty station is Ignacio, Colorado. Applicants must be Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) certified and have completed the S-290 Training Course. The closing date is July 08, 2024.  Please seek the link to apply: Wildland Firefighter: USAJOBS – Job Announcement

The Southern Ute Digital Equity Program (SUDEP) will provide Microsoft-Power Point Training on July 17th and 18th from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This will be held at the Growth Fund Building, light breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Seating is limited and open to all Southern Ute Tribal Members. The first 10 Tribal Members to sign up and attend the training will receive a $25 gift card to Walmart.

Sign up today! Contact SUDEP at 970-563-5555

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – Vice Chairman Lorelei Cloud, Tribal Council, and Executive Officer Lindsay J. Box welcomed Elizabeth Quinn MacMillan (photo right) as the new Director of the Southern Ute Cultural Center and Museum this morning. Ms. MacMillan brings a wealth of experience and a deep respect for Indigenous history and culture to this important role.

“We welcome Elizabeth to the team,” said Vice Chairman Lorelei Cloud. “Together we will preserve and share the history of the Nuuchiu.”

MacMillan holds a Bachelor of Arts in History from Washington College and a Master of Arts in Public History from Loyola University Chicago.  Throughout her career, she has gained extensive experience working with cultural institutions and organizations dedicated to preserving the history of the Southwest.  Her previous positions include work with the Bureau of Land Management’s Canyons of the Ancients, the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian, and most recently, the Center of Southwest Studies at Fort Lewis College.

Tribal Council also welcomed Lizette Langefels (photo left) as the Southern Ute Health Center Director last week. Langefels brings 17 years of experience from Animas Surgical Hospital in addition to holding a Bachelor’s degree in English Language and Literature from Fort Lewis College and a Master of Business Administration with a Health Care emphasis from Adams State University.

Vice Chairman Cloud shared, “The world of healthcare is constantly evolving, presenting both challenges and exciting opportunities. With Lizette’s experience and vision, I am confident we can navigate towards a healthier future.”

###

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT

Melvin J. Baker, Chairman – 970.563.2320

Summer Begay, Communication Specialist– 970.563.2313

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 7, 2024

Southern Ute Indian Tribe Celebrates Bill Protecting Self-Determination

Southern Ute Indian Reservation – A major victory for tribal sovereignty unfolded yesterday as Governor Jared Polis signed Senate Bill 24-193, the “Protect Tribal Lands from Unauthorized Annexation Bill,” into law on June 6, 2024. This legislation arose from the City of Durango’s attempt to annex land on the Southern Ute Indian Reservation. The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support, passing unanimously through both houses of the Colorado legislature. This strong backing underscores the widespread recognition of Tribal self-governance.

“This is a momentous day for Colorado,” shared Chairman Melvin J. Baker. “The Southern Ute Indian Tribe is incredibly grateful to the sponsors of this bill for their unwavering support. We thank Senator Jessie Danielson, Senator Cleave Simpson, Majority Leader Monica Duran, and Minority Leader Rose Pugliese. Their commitment echoes the deep respect Coloradans have for Tribal sovereignty and the sanctity of Reservation lands. Together, we are sending a clear message: collaboration thrives when we honor treaties and respect Tribal sovereignty.”

Vice Chairman Lorelei Cloud echoed these sentiments, “The Southern Ute Indian Tribe has a long history of championing initiatives that uplift and benefit our local community. This bill aligns perfectly with that commitment. By ensuring our right to self-determination and a voice in actions that impact our Reservation, we will continue serving our People and strengthening the communities that call our Reservation home.”

The bill itself simply necessitates the Tribe’s consent. It ensures that any future annexation efforts within the Reservation’s boundaries must involve the Tribe’s meaningful participation. This crucial step guarantees public safety, environmental responsibility, protection of cultural resources, and the establishment of necessary agreements. With this legislation in place, Colorado can proudly stand as a model for strong and respectful relationships with its Tribes.

###