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KnowledgeBases > The American Indian Education KnowledgeBase > Element 2 > Activity 1 > Task 1: Understand Federal and State Tribal Recognition

Guideline: Many Americans are seeking to connect with an American Indian tribal heritage or background to participate in tribal programs and/or benefits of an enrolled tribal member.  It is important for school districts seeking federal funding based on American Indian student enrollment to be aware of the formal process for enrolling in a tribal group.
Tools Frequently Asked Questions About Indians _EXTERNAL_LINK
The Bureau of Indian Affairs offers a series of frequently asked questions on how United States federal law addresses Indian tribal status, tribal membership, reservations, and other issues impacting Indians. This question and answer format can be a good orientation tool for teachers.
Legal Criteria for Federal Acknowledgment _EXTERNAL_LINK

This link is to Part 83 of Title 25 of the Code of Federal Regulations, Procedures for Establishing that an American Indian Group Exists as an Indian Tribe.

Legal Indian Affairs: Laws and Treaties _EXTERNAL_LINK
As noted in the website's introduction, "Indian Affairs: Laws and Treaties, compiled and edited by Charles J. Kappler, is an historically significant, seven volume compilation of U.S. treaties, laws and executive orders pertaining to Native American Indian tribes. The volumes cover U.S. Government treaties with Native Americans from 1778-1883 (Volume II) and U.S. laws and executive orders concerning Native Americans from 1871-1970 (Volumes I, III-VII)." The resource is available through the Oklahoma State University digital library.
References Federally Recognized American Indian Tribes _EXTERNAL_LINK

This link is to a listing of federally recognized Indian tribes from the U.S. Department of the Interior's, Bureau of Indian Affairs.

References Guide to Tracing Your American Indian Ancestry _EXTERNAL_LINK

This link is to a U.S. Department of the Interior guide addressing the purpose of tribal enrollment, membership requirements, how to apply, and how to locate an ancestral tribe.

References State Recognized American Indian Tribal Entities _EXTERNAL_LINK
This Wikipedia reference provides a list of state recognized American Indian tribal entities. Wikipedia is a multilingual, web-based, free content encyclopedia project. Wikipedia is written collaboratively by volunteers from all around the world. As such, content should be verified with other sources.
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Next: Task 2: Understand Eligibility for Tribal Membership


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