The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians will celebrate 25 years of federal recognition on Saturday.

The Michigan tribe received federal recognition on May 27, 1980. It was the first to do so under the Bureau of Indian Affairs regulations adopted in 1978.

Although it only took two years to complete the process, tribal leaders previously sought recognition several times since the Indian Reorganization Act of 1934. Each time, they were denied.

But now that the tribe is recognized, officials say it has brought nothing but positive changes. One of the first things the tribe did was bring housing to the community. Later, the tribe opened a bingo hall and a casino.

Get the Story:
After many struggles, GTB celebrates (The Leelanau Enterprise 5/26)

Only on Indianz.Com:
Federal Recognition Database 2.0

Relevant Links:
Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians - http://www.gtb.nsn.us