The Delaware Tribe of Oklahoma is working to restore its programs and services after regaining federal recognition.

The Delawares lost all federal funding when they were taken off the list of recognized tribes. But an agreement with the Cherokee Nation ensures the Delawares can plan for the future.

"The recognition of tribal sovereignty is critical for the social and economic development of our tribe," Earnest Tiger, the tribe's spokesperson and economic development director, told The Cherokee Phoenix.

Under the agreement, the Delawares promised not to exert authority or seek land within the Cherokee Nation's 14-county area in northeastern Oklahoma.

Get the Story:
Delaware Tribe eligible for federal funds and services (The Cherokee Phoenix 10/14)

Relevant Documents:
Delaware Tribe Recognition (July 28, 2009)

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Delaware Tribe seeks to restore federal recognition (4/13)