[ excerpt from an article in TheOverheard.com ]

... Despite the calls from Washington to rein in Isle Royale, pointing to a history of violence, irregular leadership, and archaic traditions that have no place in modern America, this week Isle Royale's leading pack saw its first democratic election for local leadership. With the former pack leader having abdicated his position without warning, the second, Mr Adam Clarke, organised a secret ballot for all pack members. This is a break with centuries-long tradition that demands the would-be leader fight his opponent to the death for the position. Instead of more death, Isle Royale is embracing democracy.

The new leader of Bourbon is Dr Henry Borders, VMD, a long-time resident from one of the island's founding families. A veterinarian, Dr Borders is a vision of the future of this community. His acceptance statement calls for greater cooperation between the packs and for progressive change while still maintaining traditions that make this insular community unique. In the words of Dr Borders: I know we can and we will do whatever it takes to preserve what is dear and ensure this island becomes the kind of place we can all be proud of, not the stuff of tabloid gossip and federal censure. We can do better. We can be better. It only takes the will to do so.

In an age of tolerance and acknowledgement of the diversity of America, Isle Royale is a piece of that diversity. If this place can embrace change and maintain their distinctive identity, if it can work with the federal government to ensure compliance with all laws and treaties, then what right does Congress have to overturn the treaties that govern this community? Or will Isle Royale suffer the same fate as so many minority groups fighting to maintain their sovereignty, such as so many Indigenous Nations -- empty promises and a federal takeover to benefit Washington, not the people they claim to care so much about? Only time, and Congress's resolve, will tell.