But, a new generation of leaders is embracing traditional ways as they attempt to reform the old system of government. At White Earth , a proposed new tribal constitution incorporates spiritual traditions. Leech Lake tribal chair Eli Hunt says while it's not practical to return to the tribal structure of bygone days, the spiritual beliefs that often guided past leaders would still serve Indian people well. I mean, that's not the same scenario today. And it's no different in tribal government.
Money motivates people for the wrong reasons.
Hunt says money also motivates people to stay in power. He says that makes it difficult to root out corruption and implement change. White Earth tribal historian Andy Favorite says Minnesota Indian tribes are at a pivotal point in their history. He says Indian people have clearly not been well served by the government structure that's guided them most of this century. He's hoping the present constitutional reform movement will result in a new form of government, blending traditional Indian beliefs, and democracy, to better serve future generations.