Arts & Entertainment
Fighting fake Indian arts called an uphill battle


Indian artisans and dealers say it is difficult to enforce the Indian Arts and Crafts Act due to cheap imitations on the market.

Federal law makes it a crime to market goods as Native if they are not produced by Native Americans. But artists say it is easy for people to buy fake knockoffs.

The Indian Arts and Crafts Board wants to pour more money into enforcement. But the proposal would require the elimination of funds for three Indian museums.

Get the Story:
Fighting fake American Indian arts (The Farmington Daily Times 5/23)

Inspector General Report:
Indian Arts and Crafts: A Case of Misrepresentation (June 2005

FY2007 Budget Request:
Bureau of Indian Affairs Budget | Departmental Offices [includes Office of Special Trustee]

FY2007 Budget Documents:
Fulfilling Trust Responsibilities | Serving Tribal Communities | Protecting Lives, Resources, and Property [includes Safety in Indian Country] | Budget in Brief | Interior Department [from the White House]

Relevant Links:
Indian Arts and Crafts Board - http://www.doi.gov/iacb

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