National
Identity Theft: California Indians lose tribal rights


The East Bay Expres published a lengthy story in this week's issue about California Indians who have been disenrolled from their tribes.

California Indians for Justice says as many as 1,500 people have been removed from the rolls. They were kicked out of a number of tribes, including the Guidiville Band of Pomo Indians, the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians, the Table Mountain Rancheria and the Pinoleville Band of Pomo Indians.

Many disenrolled Indians link their removal to greed. They say tribal members and tribal leaders want to limit the amount of gaming revenues being shared.

Others say the issue has nothing to do with gaming. They say tribes have a right to determine their own membership.

Those removed from their tribes have found little recourse. The Bureau of Indian Affairs refuses to get involved and court cases haven't been successful. Some are turning to Congress to get their voices heard.

Get the Story:
Identity Theft (The East Bay Express 1/25)

Relevant Links:
Bureau-of-Indian-Affairs.com, Disenrollment site - http://www.bureau-of-indian-affairs.com

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