Choctaws of Alabama renew hopes for recognition

Monday, July 2, 2007  

A changing political landscape could help the MOWA Band of Choctaw Indians from Alabama gain federal recognition.

The MOWA went through the Bureau of Indian Affairs process but was rejected. An attempt at legislative recognition was opposed by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians in Alabama and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.

Leaders of the Poarch Band now appear to be open to the MOWA. But Robert McGhee, a council member, said the MOWAs should resubmit their application to the BIA and not seek legislative recognition.

Mississippi Choctaw Chief Philip Martin, an adamant opponent of the MOWAs, could be on his way out of office. His opponent, Beasely Denson, doesn't think the Choctaws should interfere with the MOWA Band's application.

Get the Story:
Hopes of federal recognition are rekindled for MOWA (The Mobile Regster 7/2)

$rl Alabama Indian Affairs Commission - http://www.aiac.state.al.us