Members of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe in Minnesota voted to eliminate a blood quantum requirement from the tribe's constitution.

The vote was overwhelming. Nearly 80 percent approved the amendment.

“I am very gratified the people of the White Earth Nation have spoken,” Chairwoman Erma J. Vizenor said in a press release “And we move forward now to transition and implementation.”

The tribe currently requires all members to possess at least 1/4 Indian blood. Studies show that keeping the requirement could lead to a drastic decline in enrollment in the next 30 to 50 years.

“This is a historic moment in our history,” said Vizenor. “It ensures that our great Nation will endure in perpetuity forever.”

Get the Story:
White Earth Band votes to end 'blood quantum' for tribal membership (Minnesota Public Radio 11/20)
White Earth gets new constitution (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 11/20)
White Earth members approve new constitution (Forum News Service 11/20)

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White Earth Band votes on end to blood quantum requirement (11/19)