As part of welcoming our new Tribal Council and introducing them to the community, we sent each Council member a set of questions about their goals – both for the Tribe and their respective Bands – as well as some of the things they appreciate about their Bands and personal interests and/or vocations.
Here are the responses we received from Tamra Borchardt-Slayton, the Chair for the Indian Peaks Band.
- Goals for Serving on the Council / Reason for Running
My initial intention was to run for the Chair position of my Band, rather than for a Tribal Council seat. However, I understand that under our Constitution, accepting a Band Council position automatically places me on the Tribal Council as well. I take both roles with the utmost seriousness. My goal is to ensure that both our Tribe and Band are protected and represented with integrity. I am deeply committed to safeguarding tribal sovereignty and upholding the principles and responsibilities outlined in our governing documents. Serving in this dual capacity allows me to advocate not only for my Band but also for the collective well-being of our entire Tribe.
- Goals Specifically Related to My Band
One of the major goals I have for my Band is to continue the fight for our water rights, which are essential to our survival and cultural practices. A significant part of this is opposing the Pine Valley Pipeline, a project that poses a serious threat to our sovereign water resources and infringes on our rights. Protecting our natural resources is not just a legal battle; it’s about defending our way of life and ensuring our future generations can thrive.
- Favorite Aspects of My Band, History, or Lands
“Kwee’choovunt” known as the Indian Peaks Band means “Peak People,” and our ancestral homelands, referred to as “Yunawant” and “Toveep,” are rooted in Beaver County, Utah. These lands hold deep cultural and spiritual meaning. Unfortunately, during the era of termination, we unjustly lost much of this land to the State of Utah, which converted it into the Indian Peaks Wildlife Management Area. This area is sacred to us, historically used for fall pinenut harvesting and rabbit hunting. It remains rich in life, water, and traditional use, representing both the resilience and losses of our people.
- Work and Personal Interests
Professionally, I serve as the Puow’wan Program Manager for the Paiute Indian Tribe of Utah, overseeing a broad portfolio that includes National Tiwahe Programming, Family Services, Education, Youth Services, and Elders Programming. In addition, I’m an adjunct professor at Southern Utah University. I also contribute my time to various boards and initiatives that align with tribal advocacy and community development. These roles allow me to blend policy, education, and service into meaningful action for our people.
- Family and Personal Life
I am married to Michael Slayton, and together we have two children, Chanel and Carver.