Howdy,

This definitely wasn't the update we were hoping to provide after hitting 100 signatures. 

Yesterday afternoon, I received the attached email from Tulene Steistol, the Executive Director of the 17th Ave BIA. 

Objecting to some of the language used in the petition, they are threatening me with a libel suit. The email they sent me is the strangest email I've ever seen from a BIA. It's full of spelling mistakes, run-on sentences, and aggressive language. 

Their tone and attempt to intimidate have me confused and disappointed. 

Let's be honest here, Change.org petitions aren't that big of a deal. For a BIA to take such a heavy hand against an independent advocate is a sign of poor judgment, if nothing else. 

Given their tactics, I have little faith in the 17th Ave BIA's existing Board or Staff to serve as a helpful partner on this issue, or any issue. 

If you would like to hear my full thoughts on this issue, I have filmed the following video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pBIW5_UEoAc

Additionally, if there are any lawyers out there who'd like to provide some pro-bono legal advice, please get in touch!

Best,
Chris Chiasson