Laura Lee Erickson
As your District III Representative, Laura is voted in by and specifically serves the communities of White Earth, Pine Point, Elbow Lake, Callaway, and Ogema. Please stay tuned for further updates from your District III Representative!
December 2025 District 3 Report
Aaniin friends and relatives. I hope this message finds you in good health as we approach the end of November and prepare to welcome the month of December. With the holiday season approaching, it is a time for us to come together in gratitude and love. As the weather gets colder, I encourage everyone to continue to look out for one another and help support those in need.
11-4 Tribal leaders hosted a lunch for White Earth Child Support staff. White Earth Nation Child Support received this year’s MFSR Outstanding Program Award. This honor celebrates their exceptional leadership, innovation and dedication to promoting public awareness and improving child support services. Great job team!
11-11 To all our veterans and service members, Thank You for your service. We are grateful for your commitment and the sacrifices you have made to protect our communities and ensure a better future for generations to come.
11-13 We attended the Detroit Lakes Public School Powwow, it was great to see so many schools and students, teachers, parents gathered together. During the first intertribal the young people made their way down the stairs to join the circle. From a distance, they looked like a long line of determined little ants, all eager to dance. It made my heart happy and smile. We all felt the absence of Mike Swan but we understand and support his need to rest and take care of himself. We must listen to our bodies when it is time to slow down. We look forward to seeing him
return when he’s ready. We hope everyone enjoyed themselves, met new friends and learned about our Anishinaabe culture that continues to grow in our communities.
The Tribe hosted a supper for the Mahnomen/Waubum Thunderbird football team before they traveled to U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. We joined the players and coaches as they shared a meal and laughter, preparing themselves for the challenge ahead. I want to acknowledge the time, the dedication and the work the Thunderbird football team all put in this season. Congratulations on your incredible season, be proud of your accomplishments!
11-25 Tribal leaders and staff joined consultation with Minnesota Department of Health
Commissioner Dr. Brooke Cunningham and her team. The meeting focused on several key topics
including data modernization efforts and the importance of data sovereignty to ensure tribal control over their information. The discussion also covered the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS) and ongoing legislative proposals that may impact tribal communities. This discussions highlight the collaborative efforts to improve data systems, uphold tribal sovereignty and advocate for policies that support the needs and rights of tribal nations.
11-26 The monthly regular RBC meeting was held at the Shooting Star Casino. During the meeting, leaders approved a one-time safety and health assistance benefit for all adult enrolled members of the White Earth Nation. The benefit provides financial assistance of $300 to members aimed at supporting their safety and well-being during these challenging times. The application and process will be out soon.
Elder and Vulnerable Adult Program We are dedicated to supporting our community’s
elders and vulnerable adults through our Elder and Vulnerable Adult Program. If you have concerns
about an elder or vulnerable adult or if you know someone who may need assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our team is here to help ensure the safety and well-being of those who may need extra support.
Our elder advocates are available to assist with a variety of essential services including transportation to medical appointments, grocery shopping, bill payments, medication pickups and assistance with completing applications for various services. We can also help with submitting these applications to the appropriate agencies or organizations.
Lynn Tibbetts is our dedicated social worker specializing in placement and case management. She
works to find suitable living arrangements for individuals who are no longer able to remain in their
homes whether in nursing facilities or other appropriate placements. Lynn coordinates visits between families and their loved ones in care, manages guardianship payments and oversees all aspects of case management for guardianship cases.
If you or someone you know needs assistance or has concerns about an elder or vulnerable adult,
please contact us. We are committed to providing support and connecting individuals to the services they need to live safely.
Terri Wichern, White Earth
218-935-3857 or 218-401-5072
Lynn Tibbetts, Naytahwaush
218-935-3794 or 218-401-0527
Lisa Knutson, Rice Lake
218-935-3795 or 218-308-3772
Monica Perrault, Naytahwaush
218-935-3795 or 218-261-1208
Felicia Bellanger, White Earth
218-935-3856 or 218-401-0423
If anyone would like to reach out, visit or discuss any concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to listen and offer support in any way we can. Remember supporting one another is essential as we navigate these challenging times together.
Miigwech
Contact information:
Laura Lee Erickson
laura.erickson@whiteearth-nsn.gov
Office: 218-935-6238
Cell: 218-401-1153
Facebook: VOTE LAURA LEE
Assistant for District 3
Tiffany Swiers
Office: 218-935-6235
Cell: 218-997-9124
tiffany.swiers@whiteearth-nsn.gov