In the Shadow of the Eagle

Although the representatives from the Penobscot Nation and the Passamaquoddy Tribe don't have voting power on the House floor, they serve on committees and may chair committees. Donna's first session as representative of the Penobscot Nation was a difficult one, a personal struggle to have a voice, but also because of the issues: changing offensive names, teaching Native American history in Maine schools, casinos and racinos, and the interpretation of sovereign rights for tribes. Some of the struggles and issues remain as she continues to serve, and the perspective she offers as a Native American and as a legislator is both valuable and fascinating.

Donna M. Loring (born 1948) is an author, broadcaster, and tribal representative of the Penobscot nation in the American state of Maine.