Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe marks recognition

Friday, April 13, 2007  

This weeks marks the 20th anniversary of federal recognition for the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts.

The tribe won recognition through the Bureau of Indian Affairs process. But it was also subject to a land claims settlement act that limited its sovereignty and imposed state laws on the reservation.

"In some ways, I think we had more autonomy before we ever had federal recognition," Chairman Donald Widdiss told The Martha's Vineyard Gazette.

Widdiss and other tribal members said federal recognition hasn't automatically led to increased funding. But they have been able to start health, housing, education and other programs.

Get the Story:
Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head Marks Recognition Anniversary (The Martha's Vineyard Gazette 4/13)

Relevant Links:
Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head - http://www.wampanoagtribe.net

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