An estimated 1,500 California Indians have been kicked out of 23 tribes, according to activists who are urging Congress and the federal government to intervene.

John Gomez Jr., the founder of the American Indian Rights and Resources Organization, said people are often disenrolled for speaking out against tribal leaders. Bob Foreman and his daughter Carla Maslin also say greed financed by casino money plays a role.

AIRRO wants amendments to the Indian Civil Rights Act to authorize federal courts to hear appeals of tribal court rulings. Tribal leaders opposed such a provision when it was raised as part of a package to restore jurisdiction over non-Indians.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs tries to stay out of the disputes but a regional official said more and more people are coming to the agency with enrollment concerns.

Get the Story:
Tribes' riches increase membership battles (Marketplace 7/5)

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

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