Members of the Chinook Nation of Washington meet for winter gathering in January 2014. Photo from Facebook
The Chinook Nation of Washington doesn't think a rival tribe should be able to object to its federal recognition petition under new rules proposed by the Bureau of Indian Affairs:
The bid to streamline and simplify the process of tribal recognition encourages leaders of native groups and bands currently frozen out of federal programs. But they have to contend with existing tribes who fear having to share territory, resources or casino customers. That's where the acting chairman of the Chinook tribal council sees a potential pitfall. Sam Robinson points to part of the proposal that would allow previously denied tribes like his to repetition for recognition only with consent of affected third parties. "To appease another tribe would be very difficult for many. On top of that, why should one tribe be able to tell you whether you are Indian or not?" Robinson said.Get the Story:
Proposed Changes To Tribal Recognition Hold Both Promise And Pitfalls (KPLU 7/1) Federal Register Notice:
Federal Acknowledgment of American Indian Tribes (May 29, 2014) Relevant Documents:
Proposed Rule | Press Release | Comparison Chart (comparing current rule to proposed rule) | Response to Comments on June 2013 Discussion Draft | Frequently Asked Questions
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