Candidate Essay: Kari Fisherman

District III Candidate: Kari Fisherman

Aaniin, my name is Kari Fisherman and I have been a lifelong resident of Leech Lake Reservation. My family consists of my daughter and my twin niece and nephew. I graduated from Cass Lake – Bena High School in 2003 and I graduated from Leech Lake Tribal College in 2022 with my A.A. degree in Indigenous Leadership. I am currently employed by Leech Lake as an Executive Assistant for our current District III Representative, LeRoy Fairbanks. I have been working in the Administration office for over 10 years in various positions, starting as a receptionist and working my way up.

I am humbly asking for your support in the upcoming elections for District III Representative. Throughout my time working in administration I have had the opportunity to talk to many band members about their struggles and have seen first-hand the barriers they face. I have been able to be relational and make numerous connections within our community. I feel that I have a great understanding of what our community needs and can be a great asset in having their voices heard and work towards getting their needs met.

Some topics that I believe need to continue being address our youth and elders, drug/chemical use, housing and child care. Our youth need more programs and services designed to meet their needs. We need to continue focusing on our elders and making sure their voices are heard and assisting them to the best of our abilities. We need to more inclusive in our elders and keeping them involved. Housing is a matter that needs to continue being addressed as our housing conditions have become a huge issue.

Miigwech for your time and consideration. I look forward to talking and getting to know more band members throughout this journey.

Kari Fisherman
218-368-0116