Governor Bill AnoatubbyWe have all been observing with interest the ongoing debates in Washington regarding how best to reduce our federal deficit, what expenses should be reduced and what revenues should be increased.
It can be a frustrating process, no doubt, because the two major parties have fundamentally different visions of how our government should operate and what our country should look like. Added to those challenges is the fact that an element of radicalism has entered the discussion, which complicates any negotiations on resolution.
It is a challenging time in our national history. If we are to have a secure and prosperous country, we must create the resources to properly support our society while balancing that against how much each American should contribute.
At the Chickasaw Nation, we are very fortunate not to have to face the same challenges. Of course, we must be mindful of what and where we invest our resources, but our mission is clear that we will always be resolute in enhancing the lives of Chickasaw people.
We are a sovereign nation, yet we do not - as most sovereigns do - assess any type of taxes or fees on our citizens. That makes us very unique, and, I believe, serves our citizens with consistently good quality programs and services.
Our tribe has had the good fortune to develop good businesses and nurture their successes. We have been diligent in our business operations and have, thankfully, been able to produce rising net income. Those resources fund our myriad programs and services for citizens, as well as our reinvestment in our businesses and our building projects.
It has also been a real blessing to our tribe that we are able to manage our own tribal businesses from within. It is truly heartwarming that we have so many sharp, able Chickasaws managing our vital interests, including top administrators, managers and our precious workers.
We obviously have built a solid commercial foundation with our entertainment venues. While these interests have grown, we have also made the commitment to diversification into areas that provide a tremendous array of growth possibilities.
The Chickasaw Nation now operates manufacturing, consulting, media, hospitality and other commercial endeavors that are paying good dividends. We also engage in federal contracting and banking, and are continually exploring new avenues of growth-oriented expansion.
The one element we always remember is that we are not in these businesses simply to produce money. The funds our operations produce are driving the critical needs in education, housing, health care, nutrition, employment, transportation and so much more. Making money for money's sake is the opposite of what we are trying to achieve. Our funds always go to make the lives of Chickasaw families better. Whether it is a college scholarship, a new computer, a visit to the doctor, a new home, a new job or enhanced skills, we who serve you at your tribe are dedicated to assisting you in your pursuits.
At the Chickasaw Nation, we are truly blessed. Our people and our tribe suffered times of tremendous challenge and uncertainty. We honor those who have come before us by making Chickasaw lives better – today, and for generations to come.
