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JULY 28, 2000

Connecticut Governor John Rowland is being pressed with the federal recognition of the Eastern Pequot tribe both by the tribe and the towns of Ledyard, North Stonington, and Preston.

The tribe wrote the Governor, stating that Kevin Gover, Assistant Secretary of Interior, Indian Affairs, is well within his authority to extend preliminary recognition to them. The towns countered, saying Gover has exceeded his authority and has tainted the process due to a perceived political agenda.

The towns have asked Gover to remove himself from the decision making process of the tribe and the Eastern Paucatuck Pequot Tribe, who both received preliminary recognition in March. They believe Gover is using the tribes to pave the way to extend federal recognition to the Golden Hill Paugassett Tribe, whom Gover used to represent as legal counsel.

Gover has recused himself from the Paugassett petition. A decision from the BIA, who have twice-denied the tribe already, is expected soon.

A spokesman for the Governor said Rowland probably would not respond, since he has no say in the process. "This is a federal issue," said Christopher Cooper, as quoted by The New London Day.

Rowland is seeking Indian law experts to help his state understand Indian law and policy.

Get the Story:
Towns, Eastern Pequots write Rowland about recognition (The New London Day 6/28)
Governor seeks Indian law experts (Tribal Law 05/16)

Without Reservation Jeff Benedict. Read our review. Buy the book that has been causing so much controversy.

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