Pequot Chairman: Telling my side of the story

Opinion

Monday, June 23, 2008

"I am writing in response to David Collins' diatribe titled “Foxwoods forgetting its roots?,” published June 15. I've been the subject of many of his venomous, ill-informed and inaccurate writings. However, this is the first time that I've felt compelled to respond. By publishing his biased and irresponsible article, The Day has once again proven itself as nothing more than a “gossip rag” hiding behind the cloak of a duty-bound newspaper. It is a true shame that The Day would grant Mr. Collins a forum to spew his half-truth and slander-based personal animosities. Given The Day's failure to present a balanced report, I have no choice but to set the record straight.

I ran for a Tribal Council seat in 1993 because I wanted to make a difference for my people just as my mom, a tribal councilor in the 1980s, and my grandmother, a tribal councilor in the 1970s, had done. I wanted to serve my tribe and my community by helping it to run a responsible government and businesses while being a good neighbor and citizen.

My singular focus has always been to build a solid future for our children and grandchildren. As the tribal chairman, I've fought unpopular but essential battles toward this end. Our government cost-cutting efforts were agonizing - they were especially difficult for me as they directly impacted my family members. Contrary to Mr. Collins' suggestions, I have acted, and continue to act, in the best interests of my people - no matter the personal cost or sacrifice."

Get the Story:
Michael J. Thomas: Mashantucket tribal chairman: The truth must be told (The New London Day 6/21)
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