Eastern Shoshone liaison quits, criticizing Gov. Mead

CASPER, Wyo. (AP) – The Eastern Shoshone tribe’s liaison to the Wyoming Legislature and governor’s office has resigned, saying officials showed little respect for the position and discriminated against her because she is an Indian woman.

The Casper Star Tribune reports Sara Robinson announced her resignation Monday before the Legislature’s Joint Select Committee on Tribal Affairs.

Robinson says she was promised meetings with Gov. Matt Mead but they never materialized. She says state officials lacked professionalism and courtesy.

Mead disputes Robinson’s statements and says she was treated fairly.

Tony Young, Mead’s deputy chief of staff, says scheduling conflicts on both sides prevented any meetings between Mead and Robinson.

Young cited miscommunications between state officials and tribal liaisons. He says Robinson’s resignation presents an opportunity to review the liaisons’ roles.

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Information from: Casper (Wyo.) Star-Tribune, http://www.trib.com