Indigenous Peoples and Human Rights

February 22, 2012

Navajo president says he didn't pay to attend Obama's million dollar fundraiser


Navajo president says he didn't pay to attend Obama's million dollar fundraiser

By Brenda Norrell
Censored News
http://www.bsnorrell.blogspot.com

Navajo President Ben Shelly said he did attend President Obama's million dollar political campaign fundraiser focused on Native Americans in Washington on January 27, but President Shelly said he did not pay for his ticket.

The tickets were $15,000 to $35,000 for the thirty minute gathering with Obama. Higher fees were charged for those who had their photographs taken with Obama.

Ernie Zah, spokesperson for President Shelly, told Censored News on Wednesday, "President Ben Shelly attended the dinner you asked about. He was invited and didn't pay for the tickets. He went as a member of the Native American Leadership Committee."

It was estimated that about 70 people attended the fundraiser, but most Native American leaders have been silent about the gathering. So far, no photos of the event have been located on the Internet. It was sponsored by the Native American Leadership Committee, but so far the membership has not been made public.

Questions remain about whether the general funds of Native American tribes were used by tribal leaders to attend the costly political campaign fundraiser.

While many Native Americans suffered from the cold, homelessness and even hunger this winter, the campaign fundraiser focused on Native Americans and was expected to raise between $1 million and $2 million dollars for Obama's campaign.

Censored News led the call for Obama to give the money back directly to American Indians who are living in desperation.

1 comment:

Wiyaka Zi Wicasa said...

The Emergency Relief Centers of Turtle Island (ERC) could have used the money to help provide emergency energy assistance and trailer houses to those who need it. ERC has provided help without grant monies of any kind. Even the staff donate their time. Staff don't get salaries. Check them out! www.emergencyreliefcenters.org