Constitution

The WDFN Constitution

Along with the WDFN Self-Government Agreement, WDFN will also adopt its Constitution. This written document follows Dakota customs, practices, and traditions and must be approved by WDFN Members.

The WDFN Constitution is our blueprint for Self-Governance. The constitution states what is important to the community, including the protection of land, economy, resources, education training, programs and services, health, language, and culture.

Only through community consultation can the constitution be changed or altered; every member has a voice.

What is the purpose of a constitution?

A constitution describes the most important principles by which WDFN will be governed and organized.  It needs to set the basic rules to ensure that WDFN’s Government serves the interests of WDFN members.  The constitution will serve as a way to maintain peace and order; equality; and to ensure the rights and representation of the people are protected.  The constitution will protect your rights as a member of WDFN and provide you with a secure environment for you to work and live in. 

What is in WDFN’s  Constitution?

The WDFN Constitution covers:

• How the Whitecap Dakota Government is structured.
• The rules for WDFN membership and how membership is determined and reviewed.
• How the Whitecap Dakota Council is elected and the terms of office.
• The duties, jurisdiction and authority of the Whitecap Dakota Government.
• The creation of WDFN Laws.
• How Whitecap Dakota Government reports and is accountable to WDFN Members.
• The conflict-of-interest requirements for the Whitecap Dakota Government.
• How the WDFN Constitution can be changed in the future.
• The rights of appeal for WDFN Members affected by decisions of the Whitecap Dakota Government.
• How authority is delegated; and
• How WDFN Institutions are established, including provisions for accountable governance.

The Charter of Rights and Freedoms applies to the Whitecap Dakota Government and WDFN Institutions.