GRIC-UMA holds first 2017 General Election Forum at headquarters

October 6, 2017

Thomas R. Throssell

Gila River Indian News

Gila River Indian Community urban member representation on Council, amending the Community’s constitution, and housing were just a few topics discussed by candidates running for the offices of Governor and Lieutenant Governor in the upcoming General Election, during a forum hosted by the Gila River Indian Community Urban Member Association (GRIC-UMA) at their headquarters in Phoenix, Ariz., on Sept. 30.

The four candidates who participated in the forum were Monica Antone, Stephen Roe Lewis, David Anderson, and Robert Stone.

Anthony Newkirk, GRIC-UMA Chairman, said candidates for Lieutenant Governor were asked five questions, candidates for Governor 15 questions, and then questions and comments were opened up to the public.

“The purpose [of the forum] is to inform our voters [about] the elected official’s stance on urban member issues,” said Newkirk.

Many of the questions put forth to candidates dealt with GRIC urban member’s issues ranging from whether or not they would support an urban member on Community Council, amend the Community’s constitution to change language that un-enrolls GRIC members after living outside the tribe’s boundaries after 20 years, and housing.

“Historically we have outlined three priorities as far as where [GRIC-UMA] stand,” said Newkirk. “That is culture, continued funding, and the constitution.” The first nine questions put forth to candidates for Governor, where focused on those issues.

“I hope that [the forum] is a way for people to understand what urban members are working toward, equality and unity,” Newkirk said. “Simple acknowledgement goes a long way, showing up to our meetings. [Community representatives] to come out to our meetings is really something that the membership is looking for,” he said.

In addition to showing up to GRIC-UMA meetings, Newkirk added that urban members are looking to have a voice in Council, where their ideas and opinions will be heard. 

“We want to become part of that conversation, because most of the time, if you aren’t seen, you aren’t considered,” he said.

The 2017 General Election will be held on Nov. 7 with polls open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Absentee voting opens on Oct. 17 and closes on Nov. 6.

For more information about the upcoming election or events, contact the GRIC Tribal Elections office at (520) 562-9735 or 9758.