The Cherokee Nation council tabled legislation on Thursday that would block the Freedmen from citizenship in the second-largest tribe in the U.S.

The tribe's highest court ruled that the Freedmen, regardless of Indian blood quantum, are entitled to citizenship. But Chief Chad Smith and other tribal leaders have called for a change in the constitution to impose an Indian blood requirement.

The council met to consider the issue as a large crowd turned out, KOTV reported. The bill was delayed for 60 days.

Get the Story:
Cherokees delay vote on freedmen (The Oklahoman 4/28)
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Cherokee Nation Freedmen Fighting To Remain Part Of The Tribe (KOTV 4/27)

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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