Navigating Complex Personal and Professional Dynamics: A Comprehensive Response to Sherry Cardinal and Dr. Christopher Blythe

OFFICIAL LETTER TO BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY AND THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS

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Addressing Misrepresentations and Upholding Professional Integrity

I am the Ogimaa (Chief) of the Adik Doodem, Caribou Clan. Recently, Sherry Cardinal participated in a podcast with Dr. Christopher Blythe, choosing to release it on February 10th—a date of significant personal importance, marking both my grandmother's birthday and the anniversary of my calling into clan headmanship in the Adik Doodem. The timing of this release has added complexity to an already challenging situation, it was intentional and hurtful.

What is a DOODEMAG OGIMAA?

A traditionally appointed clan headman, as I am of the Adik Doodem, or Caribou Clan carries the following responsibilities:

• know the history and to teach the history of the clan and the Anishinaabeg lodge to include the seven fires migration and the wampum belts associated with the Anishinaabeg

• to teach the 7 grandfather teachings

• to represent the clan in public and private community and Midewiwin forums

• to represent the clan in internal clan meetings and councils and inter clan councils

• Uphold and transmit traditional knowledge, stories, ceremonies, and customs

• Teach and mentor younger generations in the ways of the Anishinaabe

• Ensure the proper conduct of cultural and spiritual ceremonies.

Background and Role of Sherry Cardinal

Sherry Cardinal is not a direct relative, but does possess connections 3-4 generations back. She had initially sought out my family due to connections on Geni.com, and persisted enough that we engaged in communication. In 2021 she was determined by my Great Uncle, Chief Dennis Lambert, to be fairly suited assist me as a therapist and advisor. Her involvement was primarily to provide guidance on personal and professional matters. Our interactions were limited to scheduled video calls, with only a few in-person meetings due to her mobility issues, which collectively over 5 years equated to less than 2 weeks combined together and in person. Towards the end of our collaboration, she volunteered to assist with some financial projects, under an agreed reimbursement plan.

In April of 2025 in response to organizational changes, Sherry simply resigned. So we are fairly stunned to see Sherry in conversations with Dr. Blythe references appointments signed by me, and attacking me, as well as claiming to still hold positions, when she does not:

Transition and Expression of Gratitude

As my responsibilities evolved, it became necessary to transition Sherry out of her advisory role. In March 2025, I invited her to a significant event in the Yucatan as a gesture of gratitude. During this event, she was informed that the full-time active Deer Clan mother position belonged to the head of the deer family, now with the Maya. Following this, I began working with Chief Mima Irma Estrada of the Maya. Sherry received letters of appreciation from myself, my family, the Anishinaabe lodge, and the Maya community, acknowledging her efforts and clarifying her role's limitations.

Emergence of Conflict and Boundary Issues

Despite efforts to ensure a smooth transition, Sherry's response was marked by dissatisfaction and overstepping of personal boundaries. Her reaction to tribal leaders, my marriage and her perceived role during events in Missouri and Pennsylvania indicated a misunderstanding of the professional boundaries that were initially established. This necessitated a reevaluation of our interactions.

Attempts at Resolution and Financial Discrepancies

In May 2025, a medical event involving Sherry in Maine provided an opportunity to address these issues directly. Accompanied by President Joel Gehly of the Church of Jesus Christ, I traveled to Maine with the intention of resolving matters amicably. However, Sherry's refusal to meet in the presence of my wife, Amy, complicated the resolution process.

Financial discrepancies also arose, with the discovery of a credit account opened in my name which we requested signed authorization forms for. Legal counsel was engaged, and we eventually agreed on a reimbursement amount, which was 33% less than initially claimed. Despite reaching this resolution, Sherry proceeded with the podcast, indicating a desire for attention, possibly stemming from dissatisfaction with her prior role ending.

Public Misrepresentation and Professional Ethics

Following these events, Sherry began a campaign of public misrepresentation, utilizing social media and podcasts to disseminate misleading information about our relationship. These actions breached the trust inherent in our professional interactions and raised ethical concerns regarding the misuse of professional knowledge.

Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

This experience has underscored several key lessons:

1. Clear Boundaries: Establishing and maintaining clear boundaries is crucial in any professional relationship, especially when personal dynamics are involved. Clear communication and documentation can prevent misunderstandings and protect both parties.

2. Ethical Standards: Adhering to ethical standards is essential in maintaining the integrity of professional roles. Misuse of professional knowledge for personal grievances undermines trust and can have far-reaching consequences.

3. Support Systems: Engaging legal and professional support can provide necessary guidance in navigating complex situations. Trusted advisors and mental health professionals can offer valuable perspectives and support.

4. Personal Well-being: Prioritizing personal well-being is vital in managing stress and emotional challenges arising from such situations. Taking time to reflect, seek support, and focus on personal growth can facilitate healing and resilience.

   
   

As I move forward, I remain committed to fostering relationships built on mutual respect, transparency, and integrity. I am grateful for the support of my family, community, and professional network during this challenging time. To others navigating similar situations, I encourage open communication, ethical conduct, and prioritizing one's well-being.

The most unfortunate outcome of this situation is the impact on my son David, age 10, who has to witness the mischaracterization of Native America and the actions of Sherry Cardinal, whom he once enjoyed speaking with from time to time. This highlights the tragedy and confusion caused when social media is used for personal deceptive reasons.

Thank you for your continued support and understanding.

More about Midegah

BIO:

David Taylor-Barker Midegah Ogichidaa:

Named in traditional ceremony at the Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation

Registered with the Bureau of Indian Affairs in the Pembina Federal Database as a Pembina Chippewa indian -Recorded as member descendant at the Turtle Mountain Indian Reservation

Born: May 29,1978, Nez Perce County, Idaho

Biological Mother: Laureen Taylor

Biological Father: Jay Douglas Barker, son of Patricia RoseBrunelle-Barker-Lafountain,

both registered Indians with the BIA and in the Pembina Federal Database

Education:

Master of Arts in Business Management, 2009 American Military University, Charles Town, WV Concentration in Organizational Leadership GPA: 3.8, Magna Cum Laude

Regional Accreditation: North Central Association of Colleges and Schools

Bachelor of Science in Philosophy, 2006 University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT

Regional Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Senior Professional Military Education Course in Leadership, 2010

National Defense University, Washington D.C. GPA: 4.0Regional Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)

Program Management Level I/II, 2012 Defense Acquisition University, Belvoir, VA

Military Service:

United States Marine Corps

Active Duty: 2001 to 2013 Honorable Discharge

Reserve Duty: 2013 to 2015 Honorable Discharge

Afghanistan Combat Veteran: 2011-2012

Total Foreign service: 1 Year, 4 months, 24 Days

Military Awards:

Afghanistan Campaign Medal with 1 Star.

Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal.

Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2nd Award).

Navy and Marine Corps Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Navy Unit Commendation Medal.

Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal (3rd Award).

Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Sea Service Deployment Ribbon.

NATO Medal ISAF Afghanistan.

Principal Traditional Native Teachers:

1. James Greatwalker Noodin Aaniibiish, Chief Midew, Turtle Mountain Chippewa 1993 to 20092.

2. Tom Dostou 1994 to 2023 (from the council of Chief William Commanda and keeper of his Chieftain headdress)

3. Ogigwanabik Solomon Wawatie 2023 to present, Algonquin-Anishinaabe Midewiwin

4. Mosayshkode Mark Phillips 2023 to present, Algonquin-Anishinaabe Midewiwin

Anishinaabe Doodem (family clan): ADIK DOODEM Great Deer Family or Caribou Clan

Current Position within the Clan: Ogimaa Adik Doodem, Traditional Headman in the Caribou Clan: Appointed by Matrilineal Clan Mother Patricia Rose Brunelle-Barker-Lafountain

Current Position with Traditional Lodge: Gautawaewauwissoowin Grand Chief in the Anishinaabe 8th Fire Lodge (www.act4477.org)