Mount up, It's Time to circle the Wagons! Friends, there’s an old saying that comes from the American West early pioneer days when settlers heading out in the open frontier would circle their wagons to protect against attacks. This defensive formation was both a tactical strategy and a sign of solidarity and mutual support among the group. Today that metaphor means to unite to protect against a common threat or challenge. So, given what we are seeing and hearing ‘it’s time for credit union leaders, volunteers, team members, and our credit union members to ‘circle the wagons.’ There’s no sugarcoating it—the credit union movement is entering into a critical period. The federal tax conversation is heating up, and if you’re not already engaged, you need to be. Together with our system partners, we’re getting signals that the House Ways & Means Committee could begin marking up tax legislation as early as next week. Let me be clear: this is not just another policy blip on the radar. This is a full-fledged moment for credit unions, our associations, and our industry allies to come together with one unified voice to protect the not-for-profit tax status that enables us to serve members the way we do. Just as we are preparing to gather in Fargo for next week’s DakCU Summit, the timing couldn’t be more urgent—or more perfect. We’ll be unpacking all of this in detail and strategizing together. Meanwhile, we’re also seeing increased scrutiny of our industry, some of it from unexpected places. Former NCUA Chairman Todd Harper, while he’s suing to get back on the Board, has publicly questioned our industry’s value. That’s really disappointing—as many in the movement have come to his defense. Plus, consider that during his own time as chair:
Unfortunately, his remarks echo a growing narrative that fails to recognize the real, measurable impact credit unions have in their communities. It’s time to define this debate on our terms . So let’s set the record straight:
This is what we’ll be talking about next week in Fargo. Our industry’s story is powerful—and now more than ever, we need to tell it with clarity, conviction, and unity. The time to execute our strategy is now. Mount up, we’re circling the wagons because it’s go time! Kick Off Summit: PAC Recognition, Foundation Fundraiser, and GAC Silent Auction Stack the PAC: Recognition & Fundraising Event To kick off Summit week, the South Dakota and North Dakota Governmental Affairs Committees will host a PAC Recognition and Fundraiser on Monday, May 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Delta Hotel. We’ll recognize last year’s GAC contributors, and all supporters (via payroll deduction, direct contributions, or sweepstakes entry at the $24 CU Advocate level) are invited. Not yet a contributor? No problem — simply donate $24 at the door to attend. We hope to see you there! Support the Foundation: Cash Stash Sweepstakes & GAC Silent Auction Our Dakota Credit Union Foundation continues to meet its strategic mission of supporting our credit union affiliates as well as promoting the financial welfare of the communities we serve. In effort to help the Foundation meet their objectives this year they are once again sponsoring their annual fundraiser at the Summit with the Cash Stash Sweepstakes where attendees will have the opportunity to win big!
Funds raised benefit the Roger Heacock Hike the Hill Scholarship Fund, which has awarded 83 scholarships totaling $63,500 since 2008! Can your credit union donate an auction item? We ask for items with a retail value of at least $75–$100 (or more). Every donation helps grow advocacy efforts! See you in Fargo! DakCU President/CEO
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