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Native America Calling: Tribes look to modernize the traditional practice of banishment
Thursday, September 18, 2025
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Tribes look to modernize the traditional practice of banishment
The Gila River Indian Community in Arizona is considering a new law to banish tribal members convicted of violent crimes.

Over in New York, a bill [S8127] awaiting a signature from the state governor aims to strengthen the ability of the Seneca Nation ability to enforce tribal laws, which includes removing people convicted of drug trafficking and other crimes. Those are among efforts by tribes to formalize the traditional practice of banishment as tool to combat crime.

But such efforts sometimes conflict with modern legal systems. In Alaska, the Native Village of Togiak faces a legal challenge after tribal members forced a man suspected of illicit alcohol sales onto an airplane to another city.

Tune into Native America Calling get insights from tribal leaders and Native legal experts on how banishment fits in with modern justice.

Togiak, Alaska
Togiak, Alaska, is home to the Traditional Village of Togiak, a federally recognized tribe. Photo: 176th Wing Alaska Air National Guard

Guests on Native America Calling
David E. Wilkins (Lumbee), professor at the University of Richmond in Virginia

Matthew Fletcher (Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians), law professor at the University of Michigan Law School and author of the “Turtle Talk” blog

J.C. Seneca (Seneca), president of the Seneca Nation, headquartered in New York

Anecia Kritz (Yup’ik), president of Togiak Traditional Council in Alaska

Alex Cleghorn (Tangirnaq Native Village), chief operating officer for the Alaska Native Justice Center and council member for the Tangirnaq Native Village in Alaska

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