Yahcalo Ndigena Nation Terms of Service

Introduction

The Yahcalo Ndigena Nation (the "Nation") operates in accordance with its Constitution, Tribal Laws, and Cultural Standards. By becoming a citizen, member, or participant in the Nation's services, programs, and activities, all individuals agree to abide by the following Terms of Service ("Terms"). These Terms outline the obligations, rights, and responsibilities of the Nation and its citizens, members, and participants.

1. Acceptance of Terms

By registering for citizenship, participating in any programs, or utilizing services offered by the Nation, individuals confirm their acceptance of these Terms. The Nation reserves the right to amend or modify these Terms at any time, with notice provided to members. Continued participation in the Nation’s activities or services after amendments indicates acceptance of the updated Terms.

2. Eligibility for Participation

Citizenship and participation in the Nation are governed by the following criteria:

• Individuals must be approved by the Tribal Trust Council.
• All members must complete the Nation's initiation rites and, where applicable, fulfill probationary periods.
• Citizens must adhere to the Nation’s Cultural Standards, Tribal Laws, and Codes of Conduct.

3. Citizenship Rights and Responsibilities

Citizenship Rights:

• All citizens are entitled to the benefits associated with their class of citizenship, including access to tribal land, services, and participation in tribal events and decision-making processes as outlined in the Nation’s Constitution.
• Citizens have the right to petition the Tribal Council and participate in community activities, elections, and other governance processes.

Citizenship Responsibilities:

• All citizens must abide by the Nation’s laws, regulations, cultural standards, and seven cultural principles.
• Monthly financial contributions, registration fees, or other dues must be paid in accordance with the citizenship class (Class I, Class II, or Class III) as outlined in the Nation’s Constitution.
• Citizens must respect tribal customs, including ceremonies, rites of passage, and tribal governance protocols.

4. Code of Conduct

All individuals within the Nation must adhere to the following conduct standards:

• Respect for tribal leadership, elders, and fellow citizens.
• Non-engagement in activities that harm the Nation’s reputation or cause conflict within the community.
• Prohibition against theft, violence, or the use/sale of illegal substances within the Nation.
• Maintenance of confidentiality for sensitive or privileged information shared during tribal meetings or activities.
• Active participation in community programs, cultural activities, and collective economic efforts.

5. Community and Collective Responsibility

All citizens are expected to:

• Participate in the Nation’s cooperative economics initiatives, supporting tribal businesses and community-based economic projects.
• Contribute to the well-being and protection of women, children, and elders in the community.
• Engage in the collective work and responsibility principle, offering assistance to fellow citizens in need.

6. Tribal Services

The Nation provides various services, including but not limited to:

• Law Enforcement & Security: Protection and enforcement of tribal laws by tribal police, sheriffs, or marshals.
• Medical Services: EMT and emergency medical services, along with public health initiatives.
• Education: Community education and training programs, including rites of passage for youth.
• Economic Programs: Cooperative ventures, marketplace opportunities, and business development services.
• Judicial Services: The Nation’s judicial system, including tribal courts and dispute resolution, applies to all citizens.

Use of these services is subject to compliance with all applicable tribal laws and the citizen’s standing within the Nation.

7. Disciplinary Actions

Violation of the Nation’s laws, codes of conduct, or cultural standards may result in disciplinary actions, including:

• Warnings or notices of non-compliance.
• Temporary suspension of citizenship privileges.
• Fines or required restitution.
• Permanent revocation of citizenship or expulsion from the Nation, subject to review by the Tribal Trust Council.

8. Termination of Citizenship

Citizenship may be voluntarily relinquished or revoked under the following conditions:

• Failure to comply with the Nation’s laws, Cultural Standards, or financial obligations.
• Gross misconduct, including but not limited to, acts of violence, theft, or severe violations of the Nation’s principles.
• Relinquishment must be formally submitted to and approved by the Tribal Trust Council.

9. Intellectual Property and Cultural Ownership

The Nation retains ownership of all cultural symbols, logos, traditions, and ceremonies. Any use, reproduction, or distribution of these materials without proper authorization from the Tribal Trust Council is strictly prohibited.

10. Dispute Resolution

Disputes between citizens or between a citizen and the Nation must be resolved through the Nation’s internal mediation and judicial processes. The Tribal Courts have the final authority in all legal matters within the Nation’s jurisdiction.

11. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the Yahcalo Ndigena Nation. In cases where external laws conflict with tribal laws, the Nation's legal framework, as established by the Constitution and Tribal Council, will take precedence.

12. Amendments and Revisions

The Tribal Trust Council reserves the right to amend, revise, or update these Terms. All changes will be communicated to the citizens, and continued participation in the Nation signifies agreement to the updated Terms.

By participating in the Yahcalo Ndigena Nation, all individuals acknowledge their understanding and agreement to these Terms of Service.