270 Native Americans, Majority Navajo, Living on the Streets of Phoenix After Sober Living Home Crackdown

 Navajo law enforcement teams made contact with several hundred Native Americans from various tribes who are living on the streets in the metro Phoenix area, after the state cracked down on Medicaid fraud and suspended unlicensed sober living homes, Navajo Nation Attorney General Ethel Branch said Monday.  Read the Full Story Here

Teams that included Navajo police officers reported making contact with more than 270 Native Americans, the majority of them Navajo, Branch said.

Many tribal members accepted offers to stay in motel rooms or other temporary housing for a few days before moving to legitimate facilities, while others agreed to return home to their reservations, Branch said. The teams worked with local police agencies and Community Bridges, Inc., a nonprofit that provides services for people with addictions.

“Unfortunately, many of our relatives when they came out of these facilities didn't have cell phones,” Branch said, adding that Navajo police officers allowed the people they found to use their own cell phones to call their families.

INDIAN COUNTRY MUST LIGHT THE PATH TO ABUSING TRIBES Restore Justice and Compassion: Returning Disenrolled Native Americans to Their Tribes

Or, is it the NEW Indian Way

The issue of disenrollment of Native Americans from their tribes is  demands urgent attention from both tribal communities and the federal government. 

Disenrollment is a violation of basic human rights, which not only undermines the dignity and self-determination of those affected but also damages the fabric of our tribal communities as a whole.

The practice of disenrollment is not a new phenomenon, but it has become increasingly prevalent in recent years, particularly in California. Many tribes have members from their rolls, often due to disputes over membership eligibility or claims of fraudulent enrollment.  Pechanga Chairman Mark Macarro actually said my ancestor was fraudulently enrolled, which would make ANY current Pechanga member fraudulently enrolled, 

Disenrollment robs individuals of their heritage and identity, and also strips them of their access to essential tribal services, such as health care, education, and housing, as we've seen in the Nooksack 306 eviction hearings

The need for social justice and compassion in addressing this issue cannot be overstated. Native Americans have endured centuries of oppression, genocide, and forced assimilation at the hands of the federal government and colonizers. Disenrollment perpetuates this legacy of injustice and further marginalizes already vulnerable communities.

Elizabeth Hoover, Berkeley Professora CONFIRMS "I AM A WHITE PERSON" Pretendian NO MORE

 Another day, another academician caught in a LIE about their use of false native ancestry to get ahead. 

Elizabeth Hoover
UC Berkeley Professor

 Why do people want to be like Elizabeth Warren?  Or Ward Churchill?  Or Andrea Smith?  PRETENDIAN, they name is Elizabeth HOOVER.  It's still a growing cancer, to steal benefits from real native Americans

From Karen Townsend at HOT AIR:

This controversy has been going on for months. In October 2022, Hoover admitted she had no documents to prove her ancestry. She was hired by UC – Berkeley in 2020 as part of a diversity program. She specializes in environmental justice in Native American communities. On her new personal website, she issued her statement and said she will no longer claim Mohawk and Mi’kmaq ancestry. She is being labeled a pretendian.

I asked Are Pretendians the Reason for a spike in Native Population?

Students are checked harder than professors about their backgrounds.  It's getting ridiculous.

Saginaw Chippewa ENDS DISENROLLMENT ACTION Against MAYS FAMILY

 BOOM!   JUSTICE for Saginaw Chippewa family as tribe DROPS their disenrollment actions against them.

An Isabella County family that has been fighting Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe disenrollment since the 1990s has won a third case with the help of genealogists and their longtime, Mt. Pleasant attorney.

Through its attorney, Shawn R. Frank of Jacobson, Buffalo, Magnuson, Anderson and Hogan of St. Paul, the Tribe agreed March 17 to drop the latest disenrollment action against the Mays family.

“The Tribe and their certified genealogist have…determined to not pursue further disenrollment action,” according to the order from the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe Office of Administrative Hearings.

Attorney Paula Fisher said the family was targeted “on and off” since and that they were first accused of not tracing to the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Constitution base rolls, and the Tribe agreed that they collaterally traced to them in 2009, resulting in the dismissal of that case with prejudice, meaning that should have ended further actions.

“Then, in 2014, the Tribe changed their laws and made dismissal with prejudice meaningless by challenging the Mays family yet again and asserted that the Mays family needed to trace lineally to the Tribal Constitutional base rolls,” Fisher said. “The Mays family next proved that they did lineally trace when the Office of Administration hearings granted the May’s family’s motion (to dismiss the case) in 2017.”

Read the full story at the MORNING SUN here  and KEEP WORKING FOR JUSTICE!

Letter to Senate Indian Committee on Tribal Disenrollment and Protecting ALL Native Americans

Dear Senator,

I am writing to bring attention to the urgent issue of tribal disenrollment and the abuse of Native American people by their own tribes. This is a matter of great concern and requires immediate action to protect the rights and well-being of Native Americans.

It is the responsibility of the United States government to ensure that the rights of all Native Americans are protected. This responsibility extends beyond just the Chiefs and Chairman of tribes, but to all members of Native American communities. The government has a duty to intervene when tribes are abusing their own people, particularly when disenrollment is being used as a tool for power and control.

Tribal disenrollment has become a widespread problem throughout Indian Country, and it has devastating consequences for those who are disenrolled. These individuals lose their tribal membership, their identity, and their rights as Native Americans without review or protection by the Federal Government. They are often cut off from vital services, such as healthcare and education, and may be forced to leave their homes and communities.

The process of disenrollment often violates tribal laws, traditions, and values. Many tribes have their own legal systems that have been developed over centuries, and these systems must be respected and followed. When tribes disregard their own laws and ignore evidence in order to disenroll their own people, they are perpetuating a cycle of abuse and disrespect.

We call upon the United States government to take action to protect Native Americans from these abuses. The government should create a task force to investigate instances of tribal disenrollment and ensure that the rights of ALL Native Americans are being protected. Additionally, the government should work with tribes to develop procedures that ensure due process and fairness in disenrollment cases.

It is time for the United States government to fulfill its responsibility to Native Americans and protect them from the abuses of their own tribes. We must work together to ensure that all Native Americans have access to their rightful identity, history, and heritage.

Sincerely,

Native American Leaders Must Act Now Against Disenrollment: Have You No Sense of Decency

BE A LEADER

Native American Tribal Leaders, at long last, have you left no sense of decency? As elected officials, you have a responsibility to protect the rights of your citizens, and that includes the right to their tribal citizenship and heritage.

Disenrollment is a tragic stain on the very fabric of tribal sovereignty and self-governance, and it is up to you to put an end to it. The harm that disenrollment has caused to families and communities is immeasurable and goes against the fundamental values of Native American cultures. 

It's time to take a stand and say enough is enough.

Let us not be remembered as the generation that destroyed the very foundations of our people's heritage and identity.  Let's restore the ancestors to their rightful place in tribal history.

BOYCOTT CHUKCHANSI GOLD CASINO AND THE PRCI FOR ITS HUMAN AND CIVIL RIGHTS ABUSES

 

We cannot allow the Tribal Nation of the Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi  to continue disenrolling its own citizens and denying them their civil rights. It is time for us to take action and make our voices heard.

History has shown us that economic sanctions and public embarrassment can be effective tools in bringing down hateful policies. Just look at how the world came together to impose economic sanctions on South Africa to end apartheid. We can use similar tactics to hold the PRCI accountable for their actions.

Citizens of  California must take a stand and boycott Picayune's casino, hotel, restaurants, and powwows. Let them know that we will not support a nation that denies the rights of its own citizens. We must also let our state and federal representatives know that we expect them not to support a nation that engages in such harmful practices.  Read SHOULD THE BIA WITHDRAW RECOGNITION

We cannot allow Picayune, to benefit from their violations of their own laws and the rights of their citizens. We must stand with the over 500 members of the band who were disenrolled and the hundred more with disenrollments pending.  We must demand that Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians follow their own tribal law and respect the rights of their citizens.

It is time for action. We cannot sit idly by while our fellow citizens are being stripped of their identity and their rights. Join us in boycotting Chukchansi and holding them accountable for their actions. Together, we can make a difference and demand justice for all.

PECHANGA CASINO MURDER: Kawhi Leonard's Sister Kimesha Williams, Candace Townsell SENTENCED TO LIFE IMPRISONMENT

NBA star Kawhi Leonard’s sister has been given a life sentence in prison without the possibility of parole for the killing of an elderly woman.

Kimesha Williams — the Clippers superstar’s sister — was convicted for first-degree murder, robbery and elder abuse in February, and received her sentence on Friday.

Along with the 39-year-old Williams, Candace Townsell, 42, received the same conviction and sentence for the 2019 murder.  The pair followed 84-year-old Afaf Assad to a bathroom at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, Calif. .

See Also
 ANOTHER MURDER   at Pechanga Resort & Casino.

Kawhi Leonard's Sister Kimesha Williams STILL in Jail for 2019 Pechanga Murder. Why So long for JUSTICE?

Accused Pechanga Casino Murderers Kimesha Williams and Candace Townsel Get HIGH PRICED Attorneys

NCAI's Credibility at Risk: Failure to Create Task Force to Protect Tribal Citizenship Rights Draws Criticism

We protested last year at the NCAI Marketplace, and confronted NCAI's Vice President Mark Macarro over his tribe's denial and ending of tribal citizenship.  

The adoption of Resolution 20-001 by the NCAI spearheaded by noted Native Armerican attorney Gabriel Galanda was a positive step towards protecting Tribal Citizenship rights, but the failure of the Executive Committee to create the task force suggests that there may be issues with the organization's commitment to its own resolutions.

The National Congress of American Indians (NCAI) is the oldest, largest, and most representative American Indian and Alaska Native organization in the country. It was founded in 1944 and represents tribal governments across the United States.   Do they deserve the respect?

CA Democrat Party Accepts Donation/Sponsorship From Apartheid System, Civil/Human Rights Abusing Pechanga Tribe

 

Color me NOT SHOCKED.  that the CA Democrat Party accepts donations/sponsorships from APARTHEID system, civil rights abusing tribe (shown here on Pg 17) 

While researching some issues with US Senator from California, Alex Padilla I came across the CA Dem Party Flyer from 2022, linked above.  Padilla is on Twitter talking about ethical standards for the Supreme Court, yet, what are the ethics of taking money from tribes that abuse their own people?   Hypocrite, thy name is Padilla.

Political candidates have a responsibility to ensure that their campaign contributions come from legitimate sources that do not violate the basic human rights of individuals or groups. Accepting donations from entities that violate human rights can compromise the integrity of the political process and lead to a perception that the candidate is willing to overlook serious abuses in order to gain power.

Accepting donations from such entities can create a conflict of interest and compromise the candidate's ability to act in the best interest of their constituents. It can also undermine the legitimacy of the candidate's platform and their ability to advocate for social justice and equality.

HOW DARE YOU DEMOCRATS? We remember when you accused the sovereign state of Arizona of possibly violating the civil rights of illegal immigrants, why doYOU TAKE MONEY from tribes that have ALREADY violated the basic civil and human rights of CALIFORNIA citizens of Native American ancestry.

Why aren't you STANDING UP for US?

GOV. GAVIN NEWSOM: Urgent Request to Ban Travel to Tribal Casino Enterprises with Civil and Human Rights Abuses

 Dear Governor Gavin Newsom,

I am writing to urge you to impose a ban for all government employees on travel to and attending any function at a tribal casino enterprise where civil and human rights have been violated. As you know, California has taken a strong stance on issues related to civil and human rights, and it is important that we continue to uphold these values even when it comes to our own tribal communities.

I am particularly concerned about the reports of abuse of civil and human rights at certain tribal casino enterprises. As a state, we cannot condone or support any business that engages in such behavior, particularly when it involves the exploitation of our own people.

I understand that California already has a ban on travel to certain states due to their laws, and I believe that this same approach should be taken when it comes to tribal casino enterprises that have violated civil and human rights. By taking a stand against such behavior, we send a strong message that we will not tolerate any form of discrimination or abuse, regardless of where it occurs.

I urge you to consider implementing a ban on travel to and attending any function at a tribal casino enterprise where civil and human rights have been violated. Thank you for your consideration of this important issue.

Sincerely,

CA's CHUKCHANSI TRIBE CONTINUES DISENROLLMENTS. TIME FOR A BOYCOTT of their CASINO

 Members of the Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians who were targeted for disenrollment earlier this year were kickedout of the tribe in March — and now a new group of more than 60 members is facing the same fate, according to an attorney representing the majority of the impacted tribal members.

FOLLOW THIS LINK FOR MORE CHUKCHANSI ABUSES at Original Pechanga Blog

Attorney David Dehnert told The Bee the disenrollments and the new pending disenrollments are in violation of the tribe’s constitution and several other tribal laws. Dehnert represents about 39 of the 49 who received notices in mid-March saying their names would be removed from the tribe’s membership roll. Dehnert is from Southern California, and he typically represents tribes, but said he believed the tribe’s actions were so egregious that he decided to change spots in this case to litigate the tribe.

The tribe, he said, has now selected another group of around 62 members who will be part of another wave of disenrollments. He represents about 36 of them. According to a copy of one of the notices, the affected members’ disenrollment hearing is April 22.

Dehnert said there’s no “accountability, no judicial review,” and “no checks and balances at all” with the actions of the Chukchansi Tribal Council.  OP:  MORAL OUTRAGE IS NEEDED

“It’s deplorable what they are doing to their own people. They should be taking care of their people,” he said.

At stake is a piece of the profits from the tribe’s sprawling Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino on Highway 41 north of Fresno. According to an online estimate, the casino in 2022 had revenue of $43.7 million.

Affected members who spoke with The Bee in January said the disenrollments are being driven by greed and designed to significantly swell the monetary benefits for some tribal families. Another 60 to 70 members were disenrolled last year.

SEE THE REST OF THE STORY HERE

BIA ACTS IN ARBITRARY and CAPRICIOUS MANNER in ENDING CDIB FOR NATIVES INCLUDING DISENROLLED

 

Sample not for use as CDIB

We have written on the BIA/CDIB Issue a few times  linked here:

NCAI Takes A STAND on BIA's CDIB FOIBLES & Failures  and Gabe Galanda: The BIA's BLOOD TROUBLE

Now, NATIVEPEDIA and Emilio Reyes have extensive scholarship on the arbitrary and capricious action 
San Diego, California, April 14. 2023:  Today, Nativepedia, a  California Native American company specializing in  research, education and advocacy,  has released  extensive research  on a silent issue affecting Native Americans:    Non-Federally Recognized California Indians: The Rescission of the CDIB policy. There is no question that the Department of the Interior; the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and other departments within the Interior are entirely responsible for this matter. As a result,  thousands of Native Americans are affected. 

Attached please find: "Non-Federally Recognized California Indians: The Rescission of the CDIB policy." Alternative link via WeTransfer: https://we.tl/t-XcLlWw9VwR & Scribd: 

Cherokee Genealogist DAVID CORNSILK on PRETENDIANS Seminar

 Coming from noted genealogist and current Cherokee Nation leadership candidate David Cornsilk this Friday, April 14 at 11 a.m. ET at Indiana University and via Zoom simultaneously.
David wrote on CLEARING UP MISCONCEPTIONS ABOUT CHEROKEE IDENTIFICATION    And supported the TREATY RIGHTS of the Cherokee Freedmen, where they were victorious.

Register here: https://iu.zoom.us/.../tZwtf-ihrDwrE9dlXHRHD3xYU1HWRegcSOVX

Be sure to pay attention to motives and biases of all involved.  (h/t Rob Capriccioso-Indigenous Wire)

PLEASE TRY TO ATTEND and tell your friends..

Congress Urged to Take Action on Disenrollment Crisis Over 11,000 Native Americans Stripped of Tribal Citizenship. Not Including the Ancestors

 

Here's a letter you can copy and fill in to send to your Congressperson  See HOW TO CONTACT YOUR CONGRESSPERSON

Dear Members of Congress,

I am writing to express my grave concern about the ongoing disenrollment of Native Americans from their tribes, which has resulted in the stripping of tribal citizenship from over 11,000 individuals. This egregious practice, which has been carried out by some tribal leaders without regard for due process or tribal constitutional guidelines, represents a serious violation of the rights and well-being of Native Americans across the United States.

Disenrollment is a deeply traumatic experience that can result in the loss of cultural identity, community ties, and access to critical resources such as healthcare and education. Moreover, disenrollment often occurs without due process or adherence to tribal law, leaving individuals and families without recourse to challenge the decision or seek redress.

It is unacceptable that this practice continues to occur in the United States, and it is imperative that Congress takes immediate action to address this issue. Specifically, I urge you to:

10,000 Native Americans Disenrolled and Denied Healthcare: The Tragic Consequences of Inaction by Congress, Government Agencies and Advocates

Disenrollment of indigenous people is a grave injustice that must be addressed by those purporting to support and defend Native Americans.

This despicable practice, the stripping of tribal citizenship, proven to be born of corruption and greed, has been allowed to flourish under the guise of sovereignty by some tribal governments.

Congress must take action to hold accountable those who misuse their sovereign powers to harm their own people.

As we confront this issue, it is important to recognize the complexity of the historical and cultural context in which it arises. Achieving meaningful and lasting change requires sustained engagement and constructive dialogue between all stakeholders, including indigenous communities, government agencies, legal experts, and Native advocacy groups (NARF, NCAI) and all of US.

As Elie Wiesel famously said, "Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim Silence encourages the tormentor never the tormented"

Nowhere is this more evident than in the issue of disenrollment of indigenous people, which has devastated tribal communities across the United States. As individuals, as organizations, and as a society, we must speak out against this injustice and take action to hold those responsible accountable. Neutrality in the face of disenrollment only perpetuates the harm and oppression faced by indigenous people, while silence enables those who perpetrate these abuses. 

It is time for all of us to come together and work towards a more just and equitable society for all, one that upholds the dignity and rights of indigenous communities and respects their unique identities and cultures. The Congress, BIA, DOJ, White House, NCAI, NARF, Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, and all other stakeholders must take action to halt the destruction of tribal communities and promote healing and reconciliation.

How to Fight the Dark Side of Tribal Sovereignty: Uncover and SHARE the Truth About Disenrollment To Restore Fairness and Equality to Tribal Communities

 

Doing the right thing isn't HARD

Attention all defenders of civil rights! Have you ever felt powerless in the face of corruption and mistreatment by tribal councils? Are you tired of seeing your friends and loved ones disenrolled, hurt, and violated by those in power? It's time to take action and demand justice for all.   

Where are the tribal leaders who will stand for justicd?   Holding our tribal leaders to a higher standard of integrity and transparency will ensure that tribal sovereignty truly benefits all members and not just a select few.  BE A LEADER in this fight.

But the very few of us can't do it alone. We need YOU to join us in the fight against disenrollment on a consisten basis. We need your voices, your passion, and your commitment to help us make a difference. Don't just sit back and watch as your fellow community members suffer. Ask yourself: what can I do to help?

We understand that life can be busy and it may be difficult to get involved in person. But there are many ways you can help from the comfort of your own home, such as visiting blogs regularly to help drive up awareness and let those in power know that people are watching by sending emails, it's so easy.

We cannot let corrupt tribal councils continue to violate our civil rights. It's time to band together, honor our ancestors who suffered at the hands of an oppressive government, and defend our rights. We need OFFENSE, not just defense.

 

Easter's Message of Forgiveness and Hope: A Relevant Reminder for Disenrolling Tribes on Restoration and Justice

The celebration of Easter is a reminder of the forgiveness of sins and the hope of eternal life that is available to believers through Jesus Christ. This message of forgiveness and redemption is one that can be relevant to disenrolling tribes like Pala, Pechanga, Redding Rancheria, Chukchansi, Noooksack, as well. Disenrollment is the process of removing individuals or families from tribal membership, often due to disputes over lineage or other political or personal issues. This process is painful and divisive, leading to broken relationships and a sense of loss of identity and community.

In seeking forgiveness, disenrolling tribes may find healing and restoration for these broken relationships. Forgiveness is a powerful force that can bring reconciliation and unity where there was once division and conflict. It requires humility and a willingness to let go of grudges and grievances, but the rewards can be significant. 

From me in 2007
It's interesting to think about what the remaining Pechanga  and  other disenrolling tribal members  pray and think about when they go to church.

Do they pray that:

1. God won't remember what they have done to their family and ours?

2. Well, I really didn't believe in the 5th, 8th, 9th or 10th commandment anyway?

3. I can come here and people will see me and think it wasn't me that voted against stopping

disenrollments

4. I'll just give more to the collection plate and that will get me off the hook.

5. Please, God, let there be more slot machines.

6. Don't they know that $380, 000 per year is not enough for us to share?

7. Why are they always picking on us? Are civil rights, elder abuse, voting rights that important?

8. Why did those Hunters have so much evidence and STILL got disenrolled?

9. I sure hope the tribal council didn't lie about stopping more disenrollments!

10. Please, God, I'm not really happy about it, but I didn't do anything about it

11. Are the terminated REALLY your people, Lord?

Should Christian customers patronize a business that treats its family so terribly? Should Christians spend money for dinner at a place that abused their elders and children? Should churches hold luncheons at a place like this? Please ask your local ministers and committees to not spend church funds at Pechanga.

Just as interesting a question: What has the parish priest talked to his flock out the situation?  How much of the catechism has the CPP broken?

Are they still taking communion?
What penance did they get for ruining the lives of so many?

Aunt Em, Emily Judkins, Vaunted Pechanga Matriarch's 1981 Profile in Who's Who in Temeku

 Proud Pechanga elder Emily Hunter Judkins was profiled in a 1981 newspaper article  WHO'S WHO in TEMEKU by Ken Clements.

She resided permanently on her portion of the 20 acres that Paulina Hunter, an original Pechanga Temecula person, was alotted.

Emily Judkins was proud to be from Pechanga and was an active member of the tribe.  In those days, there were no paid jobs or glory for volunteers.  She was one of the few reservation  residents that were educated and could handle many of the legal matters for the tribe on matters the Bureau of Indian Affairs needed.

How many of the current tribal members can say they volunteer to do anything other than enjoying the free lunch at meetings?  Aunt Emily worked on the Pechanga enrollment committee and wrote letters of concern about enrolling people that didn't have the documentation to prove lineage.   They are Francisca Leyvas descended and later formed a Splinter group, and after that worked to disenroll two large families from the tribe, including Aunt Emily, well after her death...

Honoring Indigenous Rights: Why Fulfilling the Provisions of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo Matters Now More Than Ever

My uncle David Cuevas, always said the key to our rights was in the treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.  The State of California and the Federal Government have violated the treaty, and disenrolling tribes are doing the same.

Treaty of 
Guadalupe Hidalgo

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was signed in 1848, bringing an end to the Mexican-American War and ceding a vast territory to the United States that included what is now California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, and parts of Colorado, Wyoming, Kansas, and Oklahoma. The treaty included provisions meant to protect the rights of indigenous peoples in these newly acquired territories, including a promise to honor existing land grants and to respect the property rights of Native American communities.

Disenrolling tribes violate the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo by denying indigenous peoples their right to self-determination and recognition. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo recognized the property rights of Native American communities and guaranteed their protection. By disenrolling members of these communities, the treaty's provisions are ignored, and their rights to self-governance and recognition are violated.

Despite the treaties promises, the United States government has a long history of violating the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and failing to uphold its obligations to Native American tribes and communities. Some of the ways in which the treaty has been violated or ignored include:

Land theft: Under the treaty, existing land grants were supposed to be respected, but in many cases, Native American lands were simply taken by force, often through violence and coercion. Native Americans were frequently pushed onto reservations, where they were forced to give up their traditional ways of life and were subjected to harsh living conditions.

Broken promises: The treaty included provisions meant to protect the rights of indigenous peoples, but the U.S. government has frequently failed to live up to its promises. For example, many treaties signed with Native American tribes were later abrogated or ignored, leaving Native American communities without the protections they were promised.

Cultural erasure: Native American cultures and traditions were frequently suppressed or erased in the wake of U.S. colonization, as the government sought to assimilate Native Americans into Euro-American ways of life. This included policies such as forced boarding schools, where Native American children were taken from their families and communities and taught to reject their cultural heritage.   Now disenrolling tribes follow this same practice!

These and other forms of mistreatment and injustice have had lasting impacts on Native American communities, contributing to ongoing challenges such as poverty, health disparities, and cultural dislocation. However, upholding the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo could help to redress some of these historic wrongs and support the rights and well-being of Native American communities.

To follow the treaty's provisions would mean respecting the sovereignty and self-determination of Native American tribes, honoring existing land rights and treaty agreements, and ensuring that Native American communities have a say in decisions that affect their lives and well-being. It would also mean investing in cultural revitalization efforts and supporting Native American languages, traditions, and practices.

Upholding the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo is not only a matter of fulfilling past promises, but also a matter of promoting justice, equity, and respect for indigenous rights and sovereignty. By recognizing and addressing the harms of past injustices and committing to a more just and equitable future, we can work to support the well-being of Native American communities and promote a more just and inclusive society for all.

Disenrolling tribal members denies them access to important resources and services provided by the tribes, such as healthcare, education, and cultural programs. This not only harms disenrolled individuals but weakens the overall community's ability to exercise their sovereignty and fulfill the provisions of the treaty.
 

Disenrollment also exacerbates existing inequities, as those who are disenrolled may be more vulnerable to poverty, discrimination, and violence. Disenrolling members of Native American tribes runs counter to the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo's goals of promoting self-determination, sovereignty, and recognition of indigenous rights.

LEARN MUCH MORE ON DISENROLLMENT HERE

Honor the Legacy of Our Ancestors: Embracing All California Indians with Open Arms, Disenrollment Must Not Divide Our Communities

Native American tribal leaders MUST remember the great injustices and violence inflicted upon the indigenous people of California by colonizers and European settlers. 

They must recognize the resilience and strength of our ancestors who survived this wholesale slaughter, and honor their legacy by welcoming any and all who identify as California Indians back into our communities with open arms.

Disenrollment from tribes must not be used as a tool to divide and exclude our people. Instead, we must come together and stand united in our pursuit of sovereignty, recognition, and justice. It is our duty to demand that our people be accepted and embraced as full members of our communities, regardless of any attempts to disenroll them.

We must continue to resist and challenge the ongoing colonization and oppression of indigenous peoples by corrupt tribal leaders, and work towards a future where all California Indians can thrive and reclaim our ancestral lands and cultures.

STOP FIGHTING FEDERAL RECOGNITION.

Nooksack 306 ELDERS Face INJUSTICE With NO Legal Representation for their UNJUST EVICTION HEARING

The situation in which three Nooksack306 families face eviction after renting to own their tax credit homes for 15+ years is unjust and morally wrong. These families have invested their time, money, and energy into these homes, with the understanding that they would eventually own them. However, they are now being evicted with no legal representation, leaving them vulnerable and unprotected in a complex legal process. Federal and state authorities have remained silent on this matter, failing to intervene and protect these families from this gross injustice.

Federal and State Authorities Remain Silent as Nooksack306 Families Fight for Their Right to Property Ownership  

The denial of the families' right to counsel is a significant violation of their rights, leaving them without the legal support they need to defend themselves in court. This lack of representation places the elders at a severe disadvantage, as they attempt to navigate the complicated legal system on their own. Without the assistance of experienced lawyers, the families may be unable to effectively argue their case, resulting in their eviction from their homes. This denial of their right to counsel is a flagrant disregard for the principles of justice and fairness that underpin our legal system.

That the families are being evicted after renting to own their tax credit homes for over 15 years is an affront to the idea of property ownership. The families have invested significant time and money into these homes, with the understanding that they would eventually become the rightful owners. However, by evicting them now, the system has robbed them of this opportunity, denying them the fruits of their labor and their right to own property. This is a grave injustice that must be addressed.

Overall, the silence of federal and state authorities, like Washington's U.S. Senators Patty Murray and Maria Cantwell  in the face of this situation is unacceptable. These families deserve better, and it is our duty as a society to ensure that they are treated fairly and justly.

The denial of their right to counsel, the loss of their homes, and the violation of their right to property ownership all represent egregious wrongs that must be addressed. It is essential that we stand up for these families and demand justice on their behalf.

Disenrollment IS an Indian Country DISASTER: The Human Cost of Tribal Councils' Abuse of Power and Exclusionary Practices

 

Doing the RIGHT thing should be EASY

As our Indigenous communities continue to suffer from centuries of colonization and systemic oppression, a new crisis is emerging that threatens their very existence. Tribal disenrollments, moratoriums, and corruption are creating a 21st century bloodless genocide that is destroying the cultural fabric and social cohesion of Indian Country.

The practice of disenrollment has become a weapon of choice for tribal leaders seeking to consolidate power at any cost and silence dissenting voices. Under the guise of protecting their communities from fraudulent claims or ensuring tribal sovereignty, tribal councils have stripped thousands of Indigenous people of their citizenship, culture, and history. This not only violates the basic human rights of those individuals but also undermines the very foundation of Indigenous communities and their collective struggle for self-determination.

The imposition of moratoriums on new enrollments or citizenship applications has created a system of exclusion that further marginalizes Indigenous people who may have ties to multiple tribes or who are seeking to reclaim their cultural identity. This practice can also lead to the exploitation of Indigenous resources by those who control tribal councils or have ties to corporations or other outside interests.

The rampant corruption within tribal governments, meanwhile, has led to the misappropriation of millions of dollars in federal funding intended to support Indigenous communities. This has left many tribes without adequate resources for essential services such as healthcare, education, and housing, exacerbating the already dire conditions in Indian Country.

Taken together, these practices amount to a 21st century bloodless genocide that is threatening the very survival of Indigenous communities. Unless urgent action is taken to address these issues and restore the principles of Indigenous self-determination, the legacy of colonization and oppression will continue to haunt Indian Country for generations to come. It is time for all Indigenous people and allies to unite against this disaster and demand justice for those whose lives and livelihoods have been destroyed by these practices.

From the Government to Corrupt Tribal Councils: Disenrollment and the Continued Marginalization of Indigenous Communities

 

Disenrollment , the STRIPPING of tribal citizenship/membership has far-reaching consequences for individuals and communities.

For many Indigenous people, being a member of a tribe is not just a legal status, but an important part of their identity and cultural heritage. When tribes engage in disenrollment, they are adopting the same exclusionary tactics used by the U.S. government to divide and conquer Indigenous communities, which can lead to historical trauma.

Historically, the U.S. government has used a range of tactics to undermine Indigenous sovereignty and cultural identity. These tactics include forced removal from ancestral lands, boarding school education aimed at assimilating Indigenous children into mainstream American culture, and policies that restricted Indigenous people's access to their cultural practices and spiritual traditions.

Disenrollment can be seen as another manifestation of these tactics, as it often involves the exclusion of individuals who may have ties to multiple Indigenous communities or who do not meet certain tribal criteria. This can create a sense of isolation and displacement, as individuals are cut off from the very communities that provide them with a sense of belonging and cultural identity.

Disenrollment without review is wrong

In addition to the emotional toll of disenrollment, there are also practical consequences for native Americans. Disenrollment can lead to the loss of access to important tribal resources such as healthcare, education, housing, and economic opportunities. It can also affect the ability of individuals to participate in tribal governance and decision-making, including adopting native children.

Disenrollment leads to elder and ancestor abuse within Indigenous communities, as we have seen in the Nooksack Tribe in Washington State. Tribal councils have used disenrollment as a tool to silence elders or other community members who may speak out against corruption or other forms of misconduct. This can create a climate of fear and intimidation, where individuals are afraid to challenge the status quo for fear of losing their tribal citizenship or being ostracized from their community. Elder and ancestor abuse is a serious issue that needs to be addressed by tribes and Indigenous organizations in order to create safe spaces where all members can share their experiences and perspectives without fear of retaliation.

The practice of disenrollment can create a legacy of historical trauma that can be passed down through generations. When tribes engage in exclusionary tactics, it can undermine the sense of solidarity and unity among Indigenous peoples, which is essential for addressing the ongoing impacts of colonization and systemic oppression.

Disenrollment from tribal citizenship or membership perpetuates the same exclusionary tactics used by the U.S. government to divide and conquer Indigenous communities, creating historical trauma. It is important for tribes to consider the long-term consequences of disenrollment and work towards more inclusive practices that prioritize cultural identity and community wellbeing.

Since Time Immemorial Has Santana Rabang, The Future of Native America's Youth, Spotlighted

 

My friend Santana Rabang,  executive assistant to the secretary of Lummi Nation and a student at Fairhaven College has been honored with a story about her in the Bellingham Alive online magazine series SINCE TIME IMMEMORIAL
  
We have worked together on tribal disenrollment issues and got to meet in person last year, TWICE! And she did a TikTok video with my cousin Cassie.  We protested together at the NCAI event in Sacramento last year.

She is simply the future of Native America.  Her spirit and spirituality shine through.

Here's an excerpt, the rest is at this link

Would you please introduce yourself? 

My name is Santana Rabang, and I come from Lummi, Nooksack, and First Nations Shxwhá:y Village. My mother is Felicia Lawrence of Lummi Nation, my grandmother was the late Hazel Lawrence, and my grandpa is Felix Gallegos. My great grandparents were the late Madeline Quincy and Peter Paul Lawrence. My father is Robert Rabang, Jr. of Nooksack and Shxwhá:y Village. My grandma was the late Janice Lee Rabang and my grandpa is Robert Rabang Sr. My great grandparents were the late Elizabeth Rabang and Frank Rabang.

You mentioned your parents, grandparents, and great grandparents when you introduced yourself? 

There’s this saying in our culture that you don’t know who you are unless you know where you come from. For me, that’s not only place-based, it’s also ancestral.

SO PROUD to be associated with this young native woman. Read more on the Nooksack 306

Aren't Native Americans Entitled to Civil Rights Protections? Paul Johnson, American Indian Activist Discusses Which Civil Rights Are Being Violated.

 I'm reprising an July 2015 post where I invited a friend, Indigenous Activist Paul Johnson, to write a piece on the civil rights that we constantly talk about, but to many, they only have a vague idea what it means.    I'll add some thoughts on how these violations relate to my family's issues at Pechanga.    

The recent resolution from the NNABA supporting Equal Protection and Due Process for those who have been divested of the Right of Tribal Citizenship
is shining a light on the civil and human rights violations that accompany many of the disenrollment actions happening throughout Indian Country.  So what are these civil rights to which we refer, and how are they being violated?

When we speak of the right to due process we are citing the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments of the U.S. Constitution. Due process provides protections to those facing a proposed action, applies in civil and criminal proceedings, and has specific requirements.

Here are the requirements in a nutshell:

1.     Unbiased tribunal

2.     Notice of proposed action and the grounds on which it is based

3.     Opportunity to present a reason why the action should not occur

4.     Right to call witnesses on your behalf

5.     Right to know what evidence is brought against you

6.     Right to have the decision based only on the evidence

7.     Right to counsel

8.     Right to a public proceeding

9.     A record of the proceedings

10.  Right to judicial review

Here is how the Fourteenth Amendment says it:

“...nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the law.”

Most disenrollees receive no prior notification that their tribal citizenship is in jeopardy. Tribes refuse to conduct hearings, or provide the opportunity to present evidence or witnesses. The decision is usually made in private meetings of Enrollment Committees, based on dubious and spurious evidence and without an independent judicial review. 

These are violations of the right to due process as guaranteed by the Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968, but the ICRA has no provision to enforce denial of due process. Was it an oversight of Congress to omit the power to enforce these rights for tribal citizens? The obvious answer is NO!

 And we'll address that in a subsequent post.

Catholic Church REPUDIATES it's CENTURIES OLD DOCTRINE OF DISCOVERY. NATIVE LEADERS SHOULD FOLLOW SUIT ON DISENROLLMENT

The recent acknowledgment by the Catholic Church that the Doctrine of Discovery dehumanized Indigenous peoples and did not recognize their equal rights is an important step towards healing and reconciliation.

This doctrine has been used by governments, including the United States, to justify mistreatment and land theft from Indigenous communities. 

We hope that this acknowledgement is not just symbolic, but leads to a full recognition of the history of oppression and colonialism, not just by the Church but also by governments worldwide.

Tribal disenrollment is a modern-day issue that stems from this history of oppression and discrimination.  The fact that some tribes use racial and discriminatory criteria to strip members of their tribal citizenship is unacceptable and violates the fundamental principles of human dignity,  as we have seen with the Five Civilized Tribes, and more recently with the reported upcoming expulsion of Blacks from The Picayune Rancheria of Chukchansi Indians in CA.

Native leaders and native media MUST HAVE difficult conversations and work towards positive change and restorative justice for all peoples.

The resilience (WE ARE STILL HERE) and wisdom of Indigenous peoples are a testament to their strength and faith in a better future. DO THE RIGHT THING Tribal Leaders.

APRIL 4 The BLACK CREEK FREEDMEN SLAVE DESCENDANTS Get Their Day In Court

 

The slow process for justice is nearing the end for the Black Creeks as they will be in court APRIL 4th.  Read JIM CROW REARS IT's UGLY HEAD  for some background.   Over 154 years of INJUSTICE is a lot to bear and the Creek Tribe, a former ally of the Confederate States and slave owners themselves, must be held to answer.

THE BLACK WALL STREET TIMES has the story, here's an excerpt
 
Plaintiffs Rhonda Grayson and Jeff Kennedy are represented by Greenwood District attorney Damario Solomon-Simmons. They’re suing the Muscogee Nation Citizenship Board for denying them citizenship based on being designated “Freedmen,” the descendants of Black people who were once enslaved by the tribe.

Black Creeks argue that the tribe should respect the 1866 Treaty with the U.S. government. It declared Black Creeks and their descendants perpetual citizens of the tribe with full rights.

Meanwhile, the Muscogee Nation Attorney General represents the Citizenship Board. They argue that the tribe should instead respect the tribal constitution, which was revised in 1979 to exclude anyone who isn’t Creek “by-blood”.

Treaty rights aren't a one-way street.  RESPECT the TREATIES should mean respect ALL THE TREATIES.

READ THE ARTICLE and wish our Creek Freedmen friends good luck in this court battle

Secretary of Interior Deb Haaland, WE HAVE QUESTIONS for YOU on TRIBAL DISENROLLMENT. WHAT DO YOU KNOW Madame Secretary

Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland had some difficulty this week answering simple questions from congress.  I'd love to give her an opportunity to answer my questions on disenrollment, tribal abuse and corruption.   

Madame Secretary please address these questions for 11,000 Native Americans being sacrificed on the altar of sovereignty

What is your understanding of tribal disenrollment and its effects on tribal members?

Have you had any interactions with tribal leaders or members regarding the issue of disenrollment?

Do you believe that tribal leaders should be held accountable for their actions of violations of civil rights when it comes to disenrollment?

Would you direct the  BIA to facilitate mediation between tribes and disenfranchised tribal members in an attempt to resolve disputes and find a mutually acceptable solution?

In your opinion, what steps can be taken to address disenrollment and its impact on affected tribal members?

How do you plan to ensure that the rights of disenfranchised tribal members are protected and upheld, particularly when it comes to access to essential services and benefits?

Tribal Leaders and Politician's Silence on Tribal Disenrollment Speaks Volumes on Their Priorities. Civil and Human Rights Aren't Priorities

Politicians and tribal leaders turn a blind eye to the abuse of disenrollment, which perpetuates the historical trauma of Native Americans.    HOW HARD IS IT TO SAY THIS?

 

"As a leader of this community, I strongly denounce the practice of disenrollment. It goes against everything our ancestors fought for and undermines the very foundation of our tribal sovereignty."

OR COME OUT TO DESCRIBE THIS?

"Disenrollment is a painful and divisive practice that only serves to tear our communities apart. We must come together to find a better way to resolve our differences and build a stronger, more inclusive future for all members of our tribe."

OR TO STAND UP FOR THE RIGHTS OF ALL?

"No one should be stripped of their tribal citizenship and all the rights that come with it based on flimsy or non-existent evidence. We must uphold the principles of due process and fairness for all members of our community."

OR TO REMIND ALL IT's DAMAGING to ELDERS

"The elders in our community are the keepers of our culture and traditions, and we must honor and respect them. Disenrollment only compounds the historical trauma our people have faced and perpetuates the very injustices we have fought to overcome."

AND TO BE PROUD TO STAND UP for ALL?

"As a leader, it is my duty to stand up for what is right and just. Disenrollment is a violation of the basic human rights of our tribal members, and we must put an end to it once and for all."

Tribal Leaders Engage in Disenrollment War of Attrition, Leaving a Trail of Dead and Abused Elders

 It is a despicable truth that many tribal leaders do not care about winning the "hearts and minds" of their communities when it comes to the issue of tribal disenrollment. Instead, they seem to be fighting a war of attrition, leaving a trail of dead elders in their wake.  They are installed in the Tribal Leader's  HALL OF SHAME

Let's DEFINE ELDER ABUSE:    California State Bar Association Elder Abuse:

It is the neglect, exploitation or “painful or harmful” mistreatment of anyone who is 65 or older (or any disabled dependent adult aged (18 to 64). It can involve physical violence, psychological abuse, isolation, abandonment, abduction, false imprisonment or a caregiver’s neglect. It could also involve the unlawful taking of a senior’s money or property.

For those who may not be familiar with the term, even after 16 years of blogging,  tribal disenrollment refers to the process by which tribal members are stripped of their citizenship and all the rights that come with it, often based on flimsy or non-existent evidence of insufficient ancestry or other criteria.  It's tribal terrorism

While disenrollment can have devastating effects on the lives of those affected, including loss of access to healthcare, education, housing, and other essential services, tribal leaders seem to be more concerned with consolidating power and resources within their own ranks than with the well-being of their communities as a whole.

They are willing to go to great lengths to achieve their goals, including using legal loopholes and questionable tactics to strip people of their tribal membership. And when their tactics are challenged, they resort to intimidation, harassment, and even violence against those who dare to speak out.  The want to hold POWER AT ANY COST

What is especially tragic about this situation is the toll it takes on the elders in these communities. Many of them are the ones who have fought hardest for tribal sovereignty and self-determination, only to find themselves targeted and marginalized by their own leaders in their old age.

These elders are the keepers of their people's culture, history, and traditions, and their loss is felt deeply by their families and communities. It is a cruel irony that those who should be held in the highest esteem are instead treated with such callous disregard.

It is time for tribal leaders to realize that their actions have consequences, not just for those they disenroll, but for the entire community. They must prioritize the well-being of their people over their own narrow interests and work to build a truly inclusive and just society. The alternative is a continuation of the war of attrition that leaves only casualties in its wake.

Controversy surrounds Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland as Critics Question her Qualifications for the JOB IS she the Pete Buttigieg of the Interior

Sorry Aunty, we expect you to know your job, not just parade around as a diversity hire.  Frankly being the Pete Buttigieg of the Interior is NOT A GOOD LUCK.

Deb Haaland
Secretary of the Interior

All of Indian Country had high hopes for the first Native American Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland when she was chosen.  Well, not all.  The Freedmen of the Five Civilized Tribes were against her choice, you can read about that here   

The Department of the Interior is ALSO responsible for energy in this country, see this tweet, then watch the video of how little she knows after over a year.

Clean energy will help save families money and address the climate crisis at the same time. I’m proud of @Interior’s work to bring the clean energy future to our country! https://t.co/nM9uK3JLcS

— Secretary Deb Haaland (@SecDebHaaland) March 16, 2023

You would think that she would study and learn and be fluent in the issues important to her boss, President Joe Biden.  Alas, NO.  See her poor performance today.   This was so weak to be embarrassing.

WATCH the video of Haaland here She's very much like Sgt. Shultz from Hogan's Heroes (I know nothing!):  

Biden Interior Secretary Deb Haaland is left completely and totally dumbstruck after being asked a series of simple questions on China and the production of critical minerals.  

— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) March 28, 2023

How can we expect her to understand the issues of disenrollment which affects 11,000 living Native Americans?   Just because she's Native?