Chinook Nation preparing for another federal recognition battle

Wednesday, June 25, 2014  

The Chinook Nation of Washington is looking to get back into the federal recognition game.

The tribe's petition was rejected by the Bureau of Indian Affairs in 2002. But changes to the process could allow for a new application to be filed.

"We need to be able to take care of ourselves,” Sam Robinson, the tribe's acting chairman, told The Chinook Observer. “Take care of our elders. The youth in our community.”

The only snag could be the Quinault Nation. The proposed changes allow interested parties to object to the refiling of a new petition.

The changes are being discussed at tribal consultation sessions during the month of July. The Chinooks are planning to attend the July 15 meeting in Portland, Oregon.

Get the Story:
Seeking justice (The Chinook Observer 6/25)

Federal Register Notice:
Federal Acknowledgment of American Indian Tribes (May 29, 2014)

Relevant Documents:
Proposed Rule | Press Release | Comparison Chart (comparing current rule to proposed rule) | Response to Comments on June 2013 Discussion Draft | Frequently Asked Questions

Washington tribes could get another shot at federal recognition (06/02)
Comment period on BIA federal recognition closes on August 1 (5/29)
BIA plans separate meets for recognized, non-recognized tribes (5/26)
BIA announces regulation to reform federal recognition process (5/22)
Chinook Nation looking for support on federal recognition bill (11/28)