Bureau of Indian Affairs Confirms Current Leadership of the Tribe

OFFICIAL PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BIG PINE, Calif. — On August 6, 2024, Bureau of Indian Affairs Regional Director Amy Dutschke signed a decision that affirmed Superintendent Harley Long’s March 21, 2024 decision that recognized the Tribal Council of the Big Pine Paiute Tribe of the Owens Valley headed by Chairwoman Cheyenne Stone and Vice Chairwoman Deanne Cheshire as the Tribe’s duly elected leadership. In denying the Jones/Levine appeal dated April 19, 2024, Director Dutschke said that the BIA could not determine that the purported November 21, 2023, election was constitutionally valid. As a result, the BIA will continue to recognize the current constitutionally elected leadership of Chairwoman Stone, Vice Chairwoman Cheshire, Treasurer Dondero, Secretary Miller, and Member at Large Williams. Vice Chairwoman Cheshire said, “this is a win for the community.”

Director Dutschke’s decision resolves a potentially devastating delay in federal funding after the Jones/Levine appeal was filed on April 19, 2024. The appeal effectively halted new 638 Contracts for federal funding because Superintendent Long’s decision could not become effective while the appeal was pending. It was unclear to the Tribal Council when Director Dutschke’s decision would be issued, causing uncertainty for the continuation of some of the Tribe’s programs. That is no longer a concern. Director Dutschke’s decision resolved that uncertainty because her decision became effective immediately. The funding will continue unchanged. Even if the Jones/Levine-led group appeals the Dutschke decision, which they have a right to do under federal law- and they have indicated on social media they will exercise that right-Director Dutschke’s decision will remain effective, and the Tribe’s funding will not be compromised.

Chairwoman Stone said Director Dutschke’s decision only confirms what is already known, but, she said, “hopefully this decision will help to unify the community and end the fighting.” She said she has heard from many community members who have expressed they are sick and tired of the uncertainty and power struggle. “We need to move forward together for our community and for the future of our Tribe.”

News Staff