Update: The Nipmuc Nation was denied federal recognition. Chief Walter Vickers said: "This is just wrong. We have fought for decades through every imaginable obstacle for this long-withheld recognition, despite our people tracing back thousands of years and recognition by the Commonwealth for more than 300 years." The tribe said it is reviewing its options.

Two Nipmuc tribes from Massachusetts expect to receive an answer on their bid for federal recognition this afternoon.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs is issuing a final determination on the Nipmuc Nation and a rival group of Nipmucs. The tribes have state recognition.

The Nipmuc Nation is meeting at its offices today to await word from the BIA. Both tribes received a negative proposed finding and submitted more information in hopes of reversing the decision.

If recognized, the Nipmuc Nation wants to open a casino. Its backer is Lakes Entertainment, a company owned by a former business partner of assistant secretary Dave Anderson, who has recused himself on all recognition matters.

Get the Story:
In the cards? Tribe hopes (The Boston Herald 6/18)

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