Mille Lacs Band Chief Melanie Benjamin Reflects on Legacy Ahead of July Departure

Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe Chief Executive Melanie Benjamin announced she will not seek re-election in 2024.

For 25 years – spanning over five terms in office – Benjamin has served as Chief Executive, leaving a legacy of tribal economic success, tribal sovereignty restoration, homelands protection, and language preservation.

From diversifying the Band’s economy and helping establish it as East Central Minnesota’s largest employer to being a leading voice for tribal sovereignty, Chief Benjamin has a lot to proud about. However, she’s most proud of her work regarding language revitalization..

A big reason the people of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe’s enjoying the good life, is in large part due to Chief Benjamin’s continuous efforts to ensure their tribal sovereignty.

Although Benjamin’s transitioning to the next stage in her journey, she feels confident the Mille lacs Band will be left in more than capable hands. She sees Samuel Moose, whom she’s personally endorsing for the role, being more than able to pick up where she left off in the battle to protect the Band’s homelands and tribal sovereignty.

The General Election will be held on June 11 this year. The new Chief will take office on July 8th.