Sovereignty is the right of a people to govern themselves and make their own decisions. The tribes in Maine have always said they are inherently sovereign. But the powers of sovereignty, like the ability to make and enforce laws, can be taken away. The tribes in Maine have way fewer powers of sovereignty than an average tribal nation in the US.

Brought to you in part by Bangor Savings Bank.

Over the next four episodes, we’ll visit those tribes and hear their stories. The Passamaquoddy, the Penobscot, the Houlton Band of Maliseets and the Aroostook Band of Micmacs.

But in this episode we’re focusing on the Passamaquoddy. And specifically, the Passamaquoddy reservation at Pleasant Point.