Freedmen of the Muscogee Creek Nation say a recent tribal court ruling could bolster their claims for citizenship.

Two Creek Freedmen sued the tribe when their citizenship applications were denied after 20 years of waiting. They say they qualify because their ancestors appear on the Dawes Roll.

The Creek Nation changed its membership requirements in 2001 to require Creek Indian blood. But he judge said the men are entitled to have their applications renewed under an earlier law, which doesn't mention blood quantum.

Get the Story:
Tribal court ruling may establish standard for membership claims (AP 3/21)
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Cherokee Nation Judicial Appeals Tribunal Decision:
Allen v. Cherokee Nation (March 7, 2006)

Relevant Links:
Freedmen Of The Five Civilized Tribes - http://www.freedmen5tribes.com
Freedmen Conference - http://www.freedmenconference.com

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