Dina Gilio-Whitaker. Photo from about.me
Native people have been fighting for sovereignty and self-determination for centuries. But Dina Gilio-Whitaker, a member of the Colville Tribes, points out that many developments only came in the last few decades. Here's part one in a refresher course in recent Indian law and policy:
Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968 — The ICRA was passed to balance “clean” tribal government while attempting to minimize outside interference. But while the language of civil rights might sound like a good thing, ICRA is seen by many scholars as a major intrusion into Native governmental independence. Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act (1971) — This legal regime has presented ongoing challenges to the sovereignty of Alaska Native groups. Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act of 1975 — Ideological battles still continue over the meaning and scope of the concept of Native self-determination. . . . American Indian Religious Freedom Act (1978) — Well into the 1970s Congress passed laws that interfered with the rights of American Indians to freely practice their religions and spirituality. It is often considered a “toothless” law because of its unenforceability.Read More:
Dina Gilio-Whitaker: Born Before 1970? You’re Older Than 9 Native Civil Rights (Indian Country Today 8/11)
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