Tax Amnesty for Crow Creek

We, the undersigned, while recognizing that the economic downturn has meant a decline in tax revenues, cannot countenance the sale of Crow Creek land for the purpose of recovering back taxes.   These taxes became delinquent due to the understanding that the Crow Creek Sioux, as a federally recognized tribe, was not subject to taxes.  Typically, this is true and the Crow Creek Sioux had been assured of this by the BIA.  The laws regarding corporations affiliated with certain tribes are hazy, however,  and neither the Crow Creek Sioux nor the BIA officials they had checked with were aware that the venture was subject to taxation.

We realize the necessity of tax collection but feel that this nation would be poorly served by the sale of Crow Creek land.  Tax amnesty has been granted to individuals and corporations far less deserving than the Crow Creek Sioux and we do not feel that it is unreasonable to ask for tax amnesty in this case.  This is the nation's poorest county.  Hard hit by unemployment and other economic ills, their power bill is a third higher than the national average and many people have had their power cut off because they were unable to pay.  It is cold now and will be getting colder and the nights are dark.

The Crow Creek Sioux are descended from all bands of the Oceti Sakowi(Seven Council Fires) and have suffered countless hardships, losses, indignities and broken promises.  Their survival is a testament to their tenacity and their commitment to each other.  We ask that you honor these virtues and this nation's own overdue obligations and grant the Crow Creek Sioux tax amnesty.