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Members of Wampanoag Tribe refiling Land Claims suit against Mashpee
10/01/07 · 5:36 pm :: posted by CCToday
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Will also seek injunction to halt all real estate sales until litigation is heardSome members of the Mashpee Wampanoag tribe are playing what they see as their only remaining card in the great casino controversy - filing an updated version of the 30-year-old Mashpee Land Claims suit.
Stephen Bingham, shown at right, who with his mother Amelia and three other members of the tribe were shunned last December for demanding access to Wampanoag financial records, is working with attorneys to reword the original lawsuit.
Bingham says he and his attorneys are determining who should be named as defendants and he expects the suit to be completed next week. The litigation filed in 1976 named more than 200 individuals and entities as defendants and challenged the validity of virtually every title to property in Mashpee.
Bingham and other tribe members have said that the Mashpee need land in their own name and control to sustain their culture and heritage. Mashpee town officials had negotiated an agreement with Glenn Marshall, former chairman of the tribal council, that was supposed to have been presented at special town meeting this month. The agreement was to have been ratified by the tribal council and sent to selectmen for their approval before going to town meeting. In the chaos following the abrupt resignation of Marshall, a man who had concealed his criminal past and bragged about false military exploits, the council was unable to complete work on the agreement in time for the special town meeting .
Stephen Bingham, shown at right, who with his mother Amelia and three other members of the tribe were shunned last December for demanding access to Wampanoag financial records, is working with attorneys to reword the original lawsuit. Bingham says he and his attorneys are determining who should be named as defendants and he expects the suit to be completed next week. The litigation filed in 1976 named more than 200 individuals and entities as defendants and challenged the validity of virtually every title to property in Mashpee.
Bingham and other tribe members have said that the Mashpee need land in their own name and control to sustain their culture and heritage. Mashpee town officials had negotiated an agreement with Glenn Marshall, former chairman of the tribal council, that was supposed to have been presented at special town meeting this month. The agreement was to have been ratified by the tribal council and sent to selectmen for their approval before going to town meeting. In the chaos following the abrupt resignation of Marshall, a man who had concealed his criminal past and bragged about false military exploits, the council was unable to complete work on the agreement in time for the special town meeting .
The agreement contained two elements: that the tribe would never pursue gaming operations in Mashpee and not make any future claims to property in town. The latter condition appeared in spite of the fact that town officials have steadfastly maintained that the original land suit had been decided against the tribe, based on a judge's determination that the Mashpee Wampanoag had not existed as a tribe at specific critical points in history.
But the recent grant of federal recognition by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs, as approved by Congress, appears to indicate exactly the opposite and grants the tribe full recognition under federal law as a sovereign nation.
Send us a NEWS TIP: Casino gambling is among the most important issues facing Cape Codders in generations and you can help us reveal the truth by emailing news tips to the capecodtoday editor here or Peter Kenney here. Your information will be "off the record" if you wish.
85 comments
Blog posts and comments are entirely the thoughts and ideas of the people who write them and in no way represent the views of CapeCodToday.com, eCape, Inc., or its employees or owners.
10/01/07 @ 5:57 pm
whatasurprise [Member] writes:
hmmm, and all that rhetoric from the wamps that this scenario would not recur. has anyone been watching the democratic debates re 'reparations'? it ain't gonna happen, folks. keep on embarassing yourselves, if it works for you. and i thought glenn marshall was embarassment enough.
[ Show all comments by this user ]
quahog [Member] writes:
Heeheehee Hahahaha...
We're gonna have fun wit this one. They finally went 'round the bend. Petey's trained monkey speaks...
We're gonna have fun wit this one. They finally went 'round the bend. Petey's trained monkey speaks...
wamptruth [Member] writes:
I thought Petey was the trained monkey? Kenney has been speaking for the Binghams for a while now.
twg [Member] writes:
Exactly how many are "some". And as far as the defendants to be named, Seems like that ought to be quite a long list.
twg [Member] writes:
Oh, wait a minute, if you replaced the word "some " in the first sentence and replaced it with "shunned", it makes more sense??!!??
quahog [Member] writes:
Amelia Bingham is now officially certifiable. Stevie has consumed too much of his own product. ;-)
twg [Member] writes:
Haven't heard much from Peter lately, and this is all he's got. A vague statement that was already out several weeks ago, when Peter and Steven were on channel 2.
caperanger [Member] writes:
is every resident of the town of mashpee now considered a 'mashpee'? new word--a 'mashpee.' i tried it on, and definitely don't like the fit. a 'mashpee'--how insulting. when did 'cape verdean' become a 'mashpee'?
flargh [Member] writes:
Hm.
"Mashpeeite?"
"Mashpeean?"
"I'm Mashpeein'!"
No, that can't be right either.
"Mashpeeite?"
"Mashpeean?"
"I'm Mashpeein'!"
No, that can't be right either.
wamptruth [Member] writes:
If the Binghams are trying to become "un-shunned", then they need to stop doing things like this. I don't see how even a new council could reverse the shunning when the Binghams continue to put themselves out there trying to get "face time". I never want to here any of the shunned members cry about there "unjust" treatment. They got what they wanted, Marshall is gone and the rest are scattering like cockroaches when the light goes on, ready to be indicted and flip on each other for leniency or immunity. Note to the Bingham family, close the pie hole and enjoy the light show that is looming over the town of Mashpee.
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
No, I think he (Steve) will continue. I hope the shunning remains, at list for Steve. His poor mother I wonder if she just sits back and does what he says. He's pathetic.
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
caperanger,
'mashpee' is not a new word although it is an English corruption of mâseepee; the name of this place for thousands of years. You tried it on and it didn't fit because it's not yours. It belongs to, and only refers to, those individuals indigenous to mâseepee and none others. When we (NDNs) refer to each other, in specificity, we use terms such as: Mashpees, Aquinnahs, etc. It denotes designation of specific tribe within the historic Wampanoag Nation. Wampanoag as Nation and Mashpee as tribe. There were 69 tribes within the Wampanoag Nation at the beginning of European immigration here. Hope this bit of info. helped.
flargh,
All of your agentive noun designations (-ite, -an, -in) are also flawed. You are absolutely right. numâseepeem, 'i am a mashpee'; mâseepeewak, 'mashpees'
'mashpee' is not a new word although it is an English corruption of mâseepee; the name of this place for thousands of years. You tried it on and it didn't fit because it's not yours. It belongs to, and only refers to, those individuals indigenous to mâseepee and none others. When we (NDNs) refer to each other, in specificity, we use terms such as: Mashpees, Aquinnahs, etc. It denotes designation of specific tribe within the historic Wampanoag Nation. Wampanoag as Nation and Mashpee as tribe. There were 69 tribes within the Wampanoag Nation at the beginning of European immigration here. Hope this bit of info. helped.
flargh,
All of your agentive noun designations (-ite, -an, -in) are also flawed. You are absolutely right. numâseepeem, 'i am a mashpee'; mâseepeewak, 'mashpees'
quahog [Member] writes:
The Bingham's shenanigans of late raises a question in my mind. Does it rise to the level of denouncing the Tribe? Can we use this to disenroll them and be done with them forever? Other tribes do it for lesser crimes. Let's remove this cancer from our body politic!
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
quahog,
You are angry and frustrated with behavior and i get that and you are not alone. But i know my People and no matter who you are, i know that if you were raised here, with social interaction during your formative years, you really don't mean that. Removing one person removes all of the generations to come after that person. We are not the type of People to punish the children for the Parents and/or Grandparents behavior or the many generations of those yet to be born. You are absolutely right in saying that there are tribes doing this all over the country. But we both know that Mashpee has always been a good example for the rest of the region and has a reputation across NDN country for doing things in a good way. This is thanks to those Mashpees who have supported and worked with tribes across the continent. Just like we are not collectively responsible for the individual behavior of any tribal citizen; innocent Mashpee Wamps should never be punished for the behavior of others.
You are angry and frustrated with behavior and i get that and you are not alone. But i know my People and no matter who you are, i know that if you were raised here, with social interaction during your formative years, you really don't mean that. Removing one person removes all of the generations to come after that person. We are not the type of People to punish the children for the Parents and/or Grandparents behavior or the many generations of those yet to be born. You are absolutely right in saying that there are tribes doing this all over the country. But we both know that Mashpee has always been a good example for the rest of the region and has a reputation across NDN country for doing things in a good way. This is thanks to those Mashpees who have supported and worked with tribes across the continent. Just like we are not collectively responsible for the individual behavior of any tribal citizen; innocent Mashpee Wamps should never be punished for the behavior of others.
caperanger [Member] writes:
wopa, too many damn 'hats' on your name and words. i speaka da english. damn right it's not mine. btw, am, according to 'your speak' an 'ndn.' but, no need for a wamp card or nasty 'reparations' lawsuits to get my unearned, mmm, what is it you're all holding your hands out for?
CCToday [Member] writes:
EDITOR's NOTE: It seems that Mr. Marshall's supporters are now attempting to "shoot the messenger" rather than comment on the issue about which he reports.
-----------------
Commenters are reminded to refrain from personal attacks and/or comments against the blogger or other commenters. Should such attacks/comments continue, commenting for this post will be closed.
-----------------
Commenters are reminded to refrain from personal attacks and/or comments against the blogger or other commenters. Should such attacks/comments continue, commenting for this post will be closed.
blogcensorship [Member] writes:
'marshall's supporters'?
and you say no personal attacks?
so, close the post if nec.
no one is shooting/faulting the messenger.
frankly, need the messenger.
blogging isn't always soft and sweet.
blogs/comments are meant to let off steam, express opinions.
10-4
and you say no personal attacks?
so, close the post if nec.
no one is shooting/faulting the messenger.
frankly, need the messenger.
blogging isn't always soft and sweet.
blogs/comments are meant to let off steam, express opinions.
10-4
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
You speak "da english" because that's what the white man brought here, prior to that, it was native tongue. "What is it you're all holding your hands out for?" that was un-called for since the only thing every Native would like to see is justice… You haven’t picked up a real history book in a while. It seems like you have a lot of anger that you would like to get off your back, at least by your comments. Why is that?
blogcensorship [Member] writes:
lighten up, people!
haven't you ever blogged before?
and what is it with the editor(s)? their a$$es are covered re any blogging liability issues.
let's just all hold hands and sing 'kumbaya.'
haven't you ever blogged before?
and what is it with the editor(s)? their a$$es are covered re any blogging liability issues.
let's just all hold hands and sing 'kumbaya.'
muwin [Member] writes:
Wôpanâshqâ,, Quahog, Wamp-pride, Wamptruth, TWG, As an outsider, I was thrilled to see this discussion quickly settle-down and offer a window to the world, on a reasonable discourse among clan members.
Out of 18 comments, I see only 3 that reference Peter, and only 2 of those are negative; moreover, there's nothing I see which implies that ANY of the commenters are/were GM supporters. So, I'm puzzled by "CCToday's" threat to (unfairly, imo) stifle free speech by threatening to cut-off this discussion. From past appearances, I've surmised "CCToday" may actually be an ill-fitting, hastily donned halloween costume worn by various members of the CCToday staff, when they wish to provide anonymous aid and comfort to a fallen comrade or floundering cause. Unfortunately, it sometimes appears that those in the suit still have a lot to learn about the somber role of "Guardian Bunny" inasmuch as they haven't yet figured out how to make the Bunny consistently speak out of the right end!
Please continue with your discussion; I am honored to "bear" witness… / Thanks!
Out of 18 comments, I see only 3 that reference Peter, and only 2 of those are negative; moreover, there's nothing I see which implies that ANY of the commenters are/were GM supporters. So, I'm puzzled by "CCToday's" threat to (unfairly, imo) stifle free speech by threatening to cut-off this discussion. From past appearances, I've surmised "CCToday" may actually be an ill-fitting, hastily donned halloween costume worn by various members of the CCToday staff, when they wish to provide anonymous aid and comfort to a fallen comrade or floundering cause. Unfortunately, it sometimes appears that those in the suit still have a lot to learn about the somber role of "Guardian Bunny" inasmuch as they haven't yet figured out how to make the Bunny consistently speak out of the right end!
Please continue with your discussion; I am honored to "bear" witness… / Thanks!
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
blogcensorship, I like your way of thinking. I agree.
quahog [Member] writes:
If I see the comment 'shooting the messenger' again, I'm gonna go postal! ;-)) Basically it means, "I can lie and insult all I want to." Peter Kenney is not just a blogger, he is actually a participant in this, so he is fair game.
wôpanâshqâ, disenrolling a member does not affect children...
wôpanâshqâ, disenrolling a member does not affect children...
muwin [Member] writes:
From what I've read elsewhere, this recent piece of Peter's may contain factual & conceptual errors about the clan's business, such as why the Bingham's were actually shunned, as well as any legal (constitutional) grounds for shunning… Also, it's not clear to me, if the Bingham's are intending to act as ad-hoc heroes, coming to their clan's rescue, or if their proposed suit will have them acting as private citizens, pursuing their personal interests. Can anyone offer some needed clarification on these points? - tia…
blogcensorship [Member] writes:
muwin, sweetie, pk is as sensitive as you are to 'personal attacks.' be a grown-up and 'fess up. it's tough to put yourself out there. and pls do not ever mention my mother's 'sexual proclivities' ever again. ty
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
quahog
It really, definitely does effect a person's entire downline. We must follow our enrollment requirements as set forth to the BIA. This means that each citizen accounted for on the roll must tie, lineally, to a parent(s) above him/her. Beginning with the 1859 Earl Report; each successive generation ties to that predetermined census that we chose. This has been the case since the change from by-laws to constitution. Leaving aside the question of dis-enrollment for a second; here is an example of that law that has already had an effect on someone. A person arrived during the last election to vote only to find that his father had refused to submitt his birth cert. or fill out any of the ancestry forms required by OFA. Hence he could not remain on the role since there was no direct person above him to tie him to the census. After several weeks of cajoling; his father relented and filled out the forms. This man's children were allowed to vote and remain on the roll because their mother was an active citizen with all required docs in place.
It really, definitely does effect a person's entire downline. We must follow our enrollment requirements as set forth to the BIA. This means that each citizen accounted for on the roll must tie, lineally, to a parent(s) above him/her. Beginning with the 1859 Earl Report; each successive generation ties to that predetermined census that we chose. This has been the case since the change from by-laws to constitution. Leaving aside the question of dis-enrollment for a second; here is an example of that law that has already had an effect on someone. A person arrived during the last election to vote only to find that his father had refused to submitt his birth cert. or fill out any of the ancestry forms required by OFA. Hence he could not remain on the role since there was no direct person above him to tie him to the census. After several weeks of cajoling; his father relented and filled out the forms. This man's children were allowed to vote and remain on the roll because their mother was an active citizen with all required docs in place.
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
In the case of another nearby Nation; a person that has been deceased for nearly 80 years was disenrolled and this effectively removed 224 individuals (an entire clan) from that Nation's roll. This Nation (of which i speak) also has the requirement of lineal descent.
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
I too thought dis-enrolling a member didn’t effect the children. I see nothing wrong with removing someone completely from the roll is necessary. But this shunning of these members is currently only for the next 7 years, and correct me if I am wrong (other tribal members that are reading this blog) but it does not effect their children.
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
wôpanâshqâ, you may be correct for disenrollment, but these members were only shunned for 7 years so that does not remove their children. I think disenrollment should happen for those that request it, but this should NOT effect their children, grandchildren etc.
blogcensorship [Member] writes:
re wampanoag or anyone's geneaological history/lineage: there is definitely a satisfactory sense of pride to knowing your family's roots from hundreds and hundreds of years ago--of any race, creed, or color, which i did. and i did it without any expection or attempt to gain anything from the research other just that: knowledge.
muwin [Member] writes:
Blogcensorship, I have to admit that remark caused my skiff to list unexpectedly. After a brief pause to dry myself off & retrieve the oars, it occurred to me that you may have thought you were speaking to one of the bloggers whose stage name is "Mwalim" - -
On the other hand Muwin is the Maliseet name for black bear, with a reputation for wisdom & diplomacy; I picked it 'cuz I need all the daily reminders I can get, that I'd actually like to be though of that way, some day… (So. yank my pants, to remind me, if you see me messin'-up - OK?) ty-2u2
=;)
On the other hand Muwin is the Maliseet name for black bear, with a reputation for wisdom & diplomacy; I picked it 'cuz I need all the daily reminders I can get, that I'd actually like to be though of that way, some day… (So. yank my pants, to remind me, if you see me messin'-up - OK?) ty-2u2
=;)
blogcensorship [Member] writes:
dunno what a 'skiff' is, and certainly didn't mean to raise it! (scary, haha) pls accept my apology for confusing 'muwin' (and i do love bears) with 'mwalim.'
and i do also love the hats^^^^^.
suggestion? maybe a blog re wamp (mashpee?) genealogy and language.
is a privilege, i know, and should stay that way. pls, no more raised 'skiffs!'
and i do also love the hats^^^^^.
suggestion? maybe a blog re wamp (mashpee?) genealogy and language.
is a privilege, i know, and should stay that way. pls, no more raised 'skiffs!'
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
Muwin
Honestly it is very frustrating to read some of Peter's posts and look at how confused and mis-stated so many of the issues appear in these posts. One could spend, and would need to spend, many hours just sorting out the confusion and mis-informtion before an honest dialogue could take place. i realize that Peter is most likely priniting what he is told and not fabricating information but the end result is the same; too much effort to bring him up to speed on each issue each time.
CCToday,
As to threatening to place individuals in 'time out'; i agree with blogcensorship, Muwin, Wamp-pride, quahog, and twg. Foul! Even though some of the commenters are placing abhorrant comments and comments having their origins in racial hatred; we need the world to see what we have been dealing with for so long. As long as a commenter is not threatening physical violence, they should not be threatened with 'Blog disenrollment'.
Honestly it is very frustrating to read some of Peter's posts and look at how confused and mis-stated so many of the issues appear in these posts. One could spend, and would need to spend, many hours just sorting out the confusion and mis-informtion before an honest dialogue could take place. i realize that Peter is most likely priniting what he is told and not fabricating information but the end result is the same; too much effort to bring him up to speed on each issue each time.
CCToday,
As to threatening to place individuals in 'time out'; i agree with blogcensorship, Muwin, Wamp-pride, quahog, and twg. Foul! Even though some of the commenters are placing abhorrant comments and comments having their origins in racial hatred; we need the world to see what we have been dealing with for so long. As long as a commenter is not threatening physical violence, they should not be threatened with 'Blog disenrollment'.
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
oops Muwin,
Forgot to answer your question in regard to motives of any person making statements of filing land suits; i'm sorry i cannot answer that with anything but conjecture and that is where i draw the line in posting comments. i have absolutely no idea what the heck these folks are thinking. i only know that the tribe has nothing to do with any goings on in regard to land suits. i can only hope that any attorney would have the presence of mind to advise them of the futility of purpose.
Forgot to answer your question in regard to motives of any person making statements of filing land suits; i'm sorry i cannot answer that with anything but conjecture and that is where i draw the line in posting comments. i have absolutely no idea what the heck these folks are thinking. i only know that the tribe has nothing to do with any goings on in regard to land suits. i can only hope that any attorney would have the presence of mind to advise them of the futility of purpose.
blogspotter [Member] writes:
no one yanks the pants of a bear! lol
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
Wamp-pride,
You are absolutely correct. Shunning does not effect anyone other than the individual that is shunned. We do have provision for any person wishing to disenroll his/herself but it does, unfortunately, effect the downline of that person. Maybe we need to really look at that. i have had no end of frustration with that constitution from the time the constitution committee began to meet with NARF, toward its formation, to this day.
You are absolutely correct. Shunning does not effect anyone other than the individual that is shunned. We do have provision for any person wishing to disenroll his/herself but it does, unfortunately, effect the downline of that person. Maybe we need to really look at that. i have had no end of frustration with that constitution from the time the constitution committee began to meet with NARF, toward its formation, to this day.
blogspotter [Member] writes:
shunning? in a 'constitution'? sounds medieval. NO ONE deserves to be 'shunned,' and certainly not their children.
muwin [Member] writes:
Thanks for your reassuring words, Blogcensorship ('least, I think…) A skiff is a dinghy - both are boats… And, it's mid-day! Why would you suspect I might be hangin' out in the bedroom… and with a set of oars?
(Thanx 4 suggesting th' 'visual' - ROF~LMAO!!!)
(Thanx 4 suggesting th' 'visual' - ROF~LMAO!!!)
muwin [Member] writes:
Wôpanâshqâ, there are already several items on the table, but I hope you will explain what a "NARF" is; sounds quasi (queasy) governmental - can that be a good thing?
(OK, gotta go make my meager living; I do so hate to walk away from this much fun!)
=;)
(OK, gotta go make my meager living; I do so hate to walk away from this much fun!)
=;)
blogspotter [Member] writes:
gotta love dinghys, skiffs, two oars (o:), and bears, 'specially mid-day
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
blogspotter,
there is a different word for 'shunning' on our language. It is not contained within our constitution. It is actually older than medievil. We did not have prisons or jails here prior to contact with non-Natives. 'Shunning' relieved tribal communities of having to form prisons. Naturally, there is always the problem of anti-social behavior within societies. Native societies are no different in their needs to ensure the safe and orderly progression of community.
Muwin,
NARF is the Native American Rights Fund. This is a non-profit organization that is used by tribes for legal assistance, across the country, when the necessary funds for legal help are unavailable. i have been very disillusioned with them, in regard to the work done here with my tribe, to say the least.
there is a different word for 'shunning' on our language. It is not contained within our constitution. It is actually older than medievil. We did not have prisons or jails here prior to contact with non-Natives. 'Shunning' relieved tribal communities of having to form prisons. Naturally, there is always the problem of anti-social behavior within societies. Native societies are no different in their needs to ensure the safe and orderly progression of community.
Muwin,
NARF is the Native American Rights Fund. This is a non-profit organization that is used by tribes for legal assistance, across the country, when the necessary funds for legal help are unavailable. i have been very disillusioned with them, in regard to the work done here with my tribe, to say the least.
blogspotter [Member] writes:
pls, clarify, the binghams belong in 'prison' v. being 'shunned' for a having dissenting, albeit assinine, opinion?
hmm, not sure 'bout that.
in america, least nowadays, we are all, simply, american.
disillusioned?
try living on a rez. it sucks.
look into that, pls.
hmm, not sure 'bout that.
in america, least nowadays, we are all, simply, american.
disillusioned?
try living on a rez. it sucks.
look into that, pls.
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
The Binghams don’t deserve to go to jail, but they did deserve to be shunned for 7 years. Even after all we have been through, why keep it going. I would say if they quite while they were ahead then maybe they would deserve a second chance but enough is enough. I think they are now just looking for their own day time talk show.
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
i did not say that the Binghams belong in prison. In fact, i sent a letter to our council stating that a seven year shunning was harsh. i was answering the question about whether shunning was medievil and did not speak to the issue of any Mashpee specifically. Incidentally; while i realize that the posts have asserted that those filing the law suit were shunned for having a dissenting opinion; this is not the case and folks should read the complaint as it was filed. Were we shunning each other for dissenting opinion; i would have been shunned a long time ago. At least one person was shunned and did not sign the complaint but had written to a local paper that she was directly involved with that action against the tribe. All that being said; i do not believe that the council had/has authority to shun anyone. i have been open in that position as well.
As to the the 'simply american' comment; you have an absolute right to that opinion/thought. i do not share that opinion/thought as my People had no say in the matter. We were made citizens of the US against our will.
As to the the 'simply american' comment; you have an absolute right to that opinion/thought. i do not share that opinion/thought as my People had no say in the matter. We were made citizens of the US against our will.
blogspotter [Member] writes:
gm is an american; and a cape verdean; and a wamp; and a criminal.
blogspotter [Member] writes:
wamp-pride is a judge of who should be shunned for having a dissenting opinion, i.e., open up the damn books for all the world to see gm's and the 'tribal' council's corruption? shunning is the 'mashpee' way? well, according go wamp-pride. wouldn't want him/her writing my constitution.
curiouswamp [Member] writes:
Shunning is a tool for the casino investors throughout the US to keep the 'little indians' in line. Shunning stops any native from asking questions about finances. Shunning is being used by tribes that have casinos to stop tribal members from asking financial questions. There is currently a movement throughout the US with members from different tribes coming together and petitioning the BIA to stop this non-native practice. In Native American tribes you can murder, steal, or rape without being shunned, but do not ask for any information pertaining to finances or you will be shunned. To allow shunning to continue stops your constitutional right of freedom of speech, freedom of information, freedom of going to the press, and numerous other freedoms. If it were not for these freedoms we would not be able to participate in this blog. The BIA is currently reviewing this new "small pox" epidemic and is expected to rule to stop such a practice.
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
curiouswamp
Are you speaking about shunning or disenrollment? i have seen absolutely no evidence in any articles pertaining to shunning being used as a tool by casino investors. i have seen plenty of articles pertaining to disenrollment used this way and i agree with you; it is absolutely vile.
Are you speaking about shunning or disenrollment? i have seen absolutely no evidence in any articles pertaining to shunning being used as a tool by casino investors. i have seen plenty of articles pertaining to disenrollment used this way and i agree with you; it is absolutely vile.
blogspotter [Member] writes:
wopa^, your 'skiff' is lifted! we are all one race, one 'People,' unless you yourself prefer 'separatism,' which it may appear you do; and if you do not like being an american, you have every right to leave 'our' country.
curiouswamp [Member] writes:
Shunning, banishment, disenrollment..potato, potaatoe.
blogspotter [Member] writes:
coloredguy, we are all, at this point, very aware that you are stating the obvious, but you must admit it is very self-evident and therefore a bit crass.
blogspotter [Member] writes:
curiouswamp, u r on target. no bs.
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
blogspotter
testy, testy. Someone needs to row ashore for a nap. Lighten up! Haven't you ever blogged before?
testy, testy. Someone needs to row ashore for a nap. Lighten up! Haven't you ever blogged before?
blogspotter [Member] writes:
coloredguy, dude, you are scarey!
wopa^, am VERY sincere about your linguistics knowledge and getting it published.
kumbaya
this site is getting a bit too twilight-zone...
wopa^, am VERY sincere about your linguistics knowledge and getting it published.
kumbaya
this site is getting a bit too twilight-zone...
blogspotter [Member] writes:
and wopa^, thank you, good idea. rowing ashore now.
10-4
10-4
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
blogspotter
thought so
thought so
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
coloredguy....umm, i think not.
Mashpees were actually beginning to have a conversation of substance and then curiously there are commenter(s) new to the scene and even more curiously; attempt to end any real conversation of substance. It hasn't gone unnoticed. i do not want to see one more second of suffering by anyone in this tribe for lack of the ability to speak openly to what we are facing and i am hopeful that this conversation can contine even if it is not in this venue.
Mashpees were actually beginning to have a conversation of substance and then curiously there are commenter(s) new to the scene and even more curiously; attempt to end any real conversation of substance. It hasn't gone unnoticed. i do not want to see one more second of suffering by anyone in this tribe for lack of the ability to speak openly to what we are facing and i am hopeful that this conversation can contine even if it is not in this venue.
flargh [Member] writes:
"I look like Steven Bingham so I can claim to be a Wampanoag."
Great. I'm bald like Steven Bingham, so I'll jump on the bandwagon too!
Great. I'm bald like Steven Bingham, so I'll jump on the bandwagon too!
flargh [Member] writes:
"numâseepeem, 'i am a mashpee'; mâseepeewak, 'mashpees'"
Now THAT makes more sense. Sounds better, too.
Now THAT makes more sense. Sounds better, too.
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
flargh,
i doubt you look a thing like any citizen of this tribe. Now be a nice boy. Haven't you got a computer or game to play with or some article or other that can amuse you for the rest of the evening?
i doubt you look a thing like any citizen of this tribe. Now be a nice boy. Haven't you got a computer or game to play with or some article or other that can amuse you for the rest of the evening?
blogspotter [Member] writes:
pls note, blogspotter is ignoring, for the moment, colorguy's 'pain.'
blogspotter [Member] writes:
dear editor: for all blogcensorship's earnestness for freedom of free blogging, it may appear that coloredguy needs a serious chill-pill and time-out. it truly is just a tad offensive.
curiouswamp [Member] writes:
I don't believe coloredguy is really who he says. He is trying too hard to appear 'colored'. What person of color is being referred to as coloredguy these days? If you want to express how you feel about the wamps don't hide behide some ridiculous character you have seen on TV. Although the situation does not fit your agenda, it would be appreciated if you not minimize what is happening to our nation by your offensive comments. Then again, could it be an investor trying to sway the conversation away from the shunning?
editor [Member] writes:
Once again commenters are reminded to refrain from personal attacks and/or comments against the blogger or other commenters. This includes racial slurs and slander against bloggers, other commenters or individuals mentioned in the blog. Should such attacks/comments continue, commenting for this post will be closed this evening. Kindly refer to our commenting policies should you have any questions. - the Editors
wôpanâshqâ [Member] writes:
Curiouswamp
The editor's comment was the ultimate goal of one (masquerading as two) commenters. If you would like to continue our discussion; perhaps it is time or do you feel that we have already done this sufficiently? You know how to reach me.
The editor's comment was the ultimate goal of one (masquerading as two) commenters. If you would like to continue our discussion; perhaps it is time or do you feel that we have already done this sufficiently? You know how to reach me.
deltaman [Member] writes:
I noticed a curious distinction about this "editor" not being the more-feared but far fairer "The Editors" I've previously encountered… Although I've just checked-in here, looks to me like the group was doing a pretty good job at setting it's own limits & didn't need an "editor" weighing-in some three hours after the gaffes were perpetrated by now long-gone flargh &? coloredguy…
Now, despite this "editor's" glib assurance that all will be revealed by reading the Commenting Policies, I can find no reference to closing-off useful discussions, when a few commenters go rogue in an attempt to disrupt a dialog; moreover, consider the implications of being so easily manipulated into giving 'em just what they set out to do. I very much hope that ALL "The Editors" & "editors" quickly reconsider this ill-advised new draconian quirk to CC2day's "Commenting Policies"
=:|
Now, despite this "editor's" glib assurance that all will be revealed by reading the Commenting Policies, I can find no reference to closing-off useful discussions, when a few commenters go rogue in an attempt to disrupt a dialog; moreover, consider the implications of being so easily manipulated into giving 'em just what they set out to do. I very much hope that ALL "The Editors" & "editors" quickly reconsider this ill-advised new draconian quirk to CC2day's "Commenting Policies"
=:|
blogspotter [Member] writes:
delta, less verbiage, pls, i.e., what the hell are you talking about? how tough is it for you to get to a direct point? OH, you don't have one!
twg [Member] writes:
I think he was saying that the "editor" is actually Peter Kenney as it says that he writes and edits this column. It is another way for Peter to try and control the conversation for his own agenda
deltaman [Member] writes:
Sorry, blogspotter - my "point" is that this new, unwritten "policy" means that any "editor" may feel entitled to shut-off a entire discussion even if one participant is unruly! Imo, that's like removing earwax with a shotgun!
blogspotter [Member] writes:
much more concise, ty. no, is like teaching a windbag, haha
twg [Member] writes:
I have been commenting on these blogs for a short time now. And my desire was to show how easily vague comments or simple ommisions can confuse and misinform readers.
With this said, I feel that I need to clarify something about myself. I am not a Mashpee Wampanoag, in fact I am not even Native American. I never intended to confuse anyone. But at the same time, if there wasn't an assumption of my connection to the tribe, Peter Kenney probably wouldn't have tried to call me out and say who I was. He also wouldn't have e-mailed me so I could correct any of his innacuracies. This should make everyone think twice about what they believe to be true in the context in which it is presented. I apologize to those who believed that I was Wamp, and hope that you continue to respect my opinions.
With this said, I feel that I need to clarify something about myself. I am not a Mashpee Wampanoag, in fact I am not even Native American. I never intended to confuse anyone. But at the same time, if there wasn't an assumption of my connection to the tribe, Peter Kenney probably wouldn't have tried to call me out and say who I was. He also wouldn't have e-mailed me so I could correct any of his innacuracies. This should make everyone think twice about what they believe to be true in the context in which it is presented. I apologize to those who believed that I was Wamp, and hope that you continue to respect my opinions.
curiouswamp [Member] writes:
I agree with blogspotter.. This site is getting a bit too twilight-zone...
do, do, do, do
do, do, do, do
deltaman [Member] writes:
TWG, I take that as a measure of respect for the community here, for you to offer that correction. I hope that you have felt that I treated your ideas respectfully, for it's only what's in them that's relevant to me. I do recall grouping you along with some who have "outed" themselves as Mashpee, in some of my comments but it has always been where I perceived you to be coming from in the blog space - not historically. You've been layin' down some good tracks here, so I hope your expressed ideas were sincere, & this doesn't mean you're about to wander-off (Still left me a tad bewildered 'bout who should/shouldn't have been confused by your calculated vagueness…)
=;)
=;)
deltaman [Member] writes:
Blogspotter, Since you've posted ~ 32 times here, since 1:30PM, I'm guessing that you've managed to grant your participation with a special exemption from your distaste for windbags. For my part, & really impressed with your very-first half-day's output here; Welcome!
twg [Member] writes:
Thanks D-man, my thoughts are sincere. I don't like the way that Peter manipulates stories and the readers' conscience.
deltaman [Member] writes:
Twg, my apologies in advance, because a 2nd follow-up usually earns a "getta room" wisecrack (get ready to duck…)
Seriously, I 100% agree on the "manipulates stories" - but I really think that only we can manipulate our consciences. I don't mean that distinction as any sort of word game TWG - Altho the "memo" came from the top down, every one of those Nazis who "manipulated their consciences" was guilty as Hell of the atrocitities committed on their watch!
Put another way, 'most everybody has a God-given B-S meter, so why in the world would I want to turn mine off in Peter's presence?
Seriously, I 100% agree on the "manipulates stories" - but I really think that only we can manipulate our consciences. I don't mean that distinction as any sort of word game TWG - Altho the "memo" came from the top down, every one of those Nazis who "manipulated their consciences" was guilty as Hell of the atrocitities committed on their watch!
Put another way, 'most everybody has a God-given B-S meter, so why in the world would I want to turn mine off in Peter's presence?
coloredguy [Member] writes:
Ya'll put your trash on the streets and I'm laughin at ya'll. You guys are so stupid. Ya'll will not be a tribe soon. Ya did it to yourselfs and it is too late. Keep airin ya dirty laundry. Keep going to the man for support. After all of these years...ya'll don't get it. Too late. See ya tribe
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
blogspotter, I am entitled to my opinion as you are. There is more to it then what is printed in black and white from CCToday and CCT. But like I said you are entitled as I am, you do not have to agree.
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
blogspotter, I never said shunning is the Mashpee way. But it is in most Federally Recognized tribe’s constitution, has nothing to do with voicing their concerns, but it does have to do with suing the tribe. Do you really think Steve Bingham hasn’t gone extreme? Enough is enough. Like coloredguy said, why keep airing our business, take it down a notch. The white man wants us to fail and this is not helping.
susan [Member] writes:
It appears to this "white man" that the Binghams are the only ones in this tribe, standing up and trying to do something about the present criminals running the tribe. I don't understand why other tribe members are not taking action against their corrupt leaders. Is the whole tribe against the Binghams? If so why? I am not saying they are right or wrong, because I do not know. The word "appears" is the key word here and us "white men" aren't seeing anything from tribal members, to give us another view.
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
That is incorrect; Steve is the only one doing it publically. That does not help us. He has brought everything to the media and it’s wrong. There is another way to go about this. There are others that would like transparency as well, being involved, going to meetings and asking questions can make this possible. It’s being done by many members, just not publically. I apologize if I offended anyone with the term “white man”, that was not my intention. It is understood that the “majority” wants us to fail, that’s why we shouldn’t be seeking for media attention, when under distress. Yes, GM did wrong and has been terminated because of this. But must we continue the battle in the public’s eye. Blogging can be therapeutic but we should be cautious in what we write and share with non-tribal members.
1976 [Member] writes:
Re: Refiling the land claims.On whom the defendents might be? This is cricial to their success stratedgy. In the first land suit every property owner in Mashpee was involved. This was like hitting a hornet's nest. The organized opposition was huge.Recognizing this mistake the TC filed a motion to limit the class of Defendents to only large land owners including the Town.This failed. The Court would not allow the TC to split the class of Defendents. It was all or nothing. The Court stated that either there was a valid land claim against all the "titles" or none at all.Now we come to the latest attempt at Landclaims. Since the BIA has affirmed a 50 mile radius as the tribes' ancestral territory, it would seem to follow that all lands within that prescribed area were alienated from the Tribe. This takes in such diverse places as all the Cape, Plymouth,Rehobeth etc.The scope of the Land Claim becomes much better understood in this context.The "Peter's" faction would rather prefer to make a limited claim to keep the opposition down. But,all or nothing is the Fed.Court rule.
deltaman [Member] writes:
Wamp-Pride, as an outsider, I see the Mashpee Wampanoag as an integral part of this region's history and a vital part of its present and future; anyone who injures you, causes injury to my clan as well. Before P.Kenney's revelations about GM, agencies were checking alleged irregularities in the tribe's finances, so there is legitimate cause for concern (inside/outside the clan) about what may yet be revealed. Beyond that, the "free" help you received in drafting a constitution may have resulted in a "one-size-fits-all" solution which doesn't best reflect the needs of your clan, & appears to be interfering with your moving forward on some issues even now. I hope that most folks in this region are celebrating along with the Mashpee, for your long-overdue return of sovereignty. However, not everyone in the tribe has yet wrapped their minds around the fact that your tribe is now a political entity; the current & future decisions of your Council have the potential of causing great good or harm to this entire region - not just your clan family! I pray that their choices are wise ones…
coloredguy [Member] writes:
Hey ya'll. Susan is right-on. The whiteman will help ya'll just like they did a couple of hundreds of years back. Ya'll natives are so infested with them white folks culture (hatred, nosey, seek and destroy) and others that you lost ya ways and sucummb to people like Susan slave mastery focus. This is why ya'll Indians are still in charge of your land and that is why ya'll Indians have a say in what you do on your land. I don't think so! Go on witcha selves Indians. Peter Kenney is winning and you all will be destroyed. Furor Kennedy and Susan should lead the tribe. Them folk are always right and in-charge.
wamp-pride [Member] writes:
DMan, you always make me feel better after reading your entries. Yes you are right, there are certain issues that effect the public and they should be aware of. I too hope the choices are wise ones, for everyone’s sake.
deltaman [Member] writes:
Chuh, Wamp-Pride, knowing that you are part of this historic moment, adds to my hope that those choices WILL be wise; I urge you to consider running for one of the two open Council positions!
Also, I have carefully reserved one handshake & one hug (your choice) in case I should ever have the good fortune to meet you at some future Pow-Wow…
=:)
Also, I have carefully reserved one handshake & one hug (your choice) in case I should ever have the good fortune to meet you at some future Pow-Wow…
=:)
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WampaGate is a blog written and edited by Cape Cod blogger & TV personality Peter Kenney whose television show and Gadfly blog are well known. He writes here about issues affecting the Wampanoag Tribe of Mashpee. Issues which seem to be left out of the ever-shrinking "old media." His previous columns and stories are archived here. Peter invites information and will treat it "off the record" if asked. Email him at peter@capecodtoday.com.
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