Circle Keepers
To reflect our tribal values, we refer to our governing body as the Circle Keepers
To ensure the needs of the organization are met, tasks have been delegated and reflect the functions of a traditional Board of Directors. Major decisions are made collectively to reflect the universal Tribal value of being inclusive and for the benefit of all Tribal members, reservation, rural or urban, in the State of Minnesota, regardless of Tribal affiliation.
Our By-Laws require that the leadership of the Circle Keepers consist of American Indian and/or Alaska Native women. The Circle Keepers shall consist of no more than ten and no less than five members.
CIRCLE KEEPER RESPONSIBILITIES:
Embody and Cultivate the Matriarchy:
Uphold the highest standard of attendance, timeliness, and adherence to tribally grounded decision making, where each voice matters, is heard and respected.
Circle Keeper Leadership and Development:
Support and engage in decolonizing strategies and liberatory practices to end gender-based violence. Participate in planning and approving long-range plans with Staff and Membership.
Hiring and Supervision of the Executive Director:
Hire the Executive Director. Evaluate their performance annually. Support the Director in maintaining a healthy organization.
Financial Oversight, Care and Compliance:
Work with staff to prepare financial reports, budgets, and ensure sound fiscal oversight, adherence to tribal, state and federal laws, and responsibility to MIWSAC.
Culturally Honoring Ambassadorship:
Represent MIWSAC as a Native woman-led, survivor-centered organization in the community, with funders, tribal leadership, and other stakeholders.
KEEPER OF TRADITIONAL WAYS
Tara Lewis
KEEPER OF FINANCES
Vacant
KEEPER OF RECORDS
Rachel GoodSky
CIRCLE KEEPERS
Sarah Curtiss
Kimberly Bollig
Kaitlyn Grenier
Ann Haines
Kateri O’Keefe
Survivors of sexual violence cannot be blamed for the trauma and pain inflicted upon them. As a community, we must educate ourselves and rise up to hold harm-doers accountable and interrupt all forms of violence.