Mark Williamson wrote:
The idea that federal recognition somehow confers validity upon a tribe, peoples, or nation is a ridiculous one.
Yes, there are people who impersonate Indians. Yes, there are fake tribes. But then there are also people who really are Indians but whose tribes are not federally recognized. You have equated this on Talk:Cherokee with being a "wannabee" and having lost language and culture.
You have also shown surprising ignorance towards US Indian Policy by stating that states don't have the power to recognize tribes. (it is Congress' job to regulate commerce with tribes, but that does not mean that states, municipalities and other local government entities cannot enter into contractual relationships with tribes amounting to a sort of recognition).
Better go read the US Constitution Mark. Also read up on the preemptive nature of the Commerce Clause. After you read up on these topics, we will have a basis to discuss this where you have the necessary groundwork.
In fact, Alabama has a committee especially for that purpose. The federal government seems to have no issue with that.
Of course, is someone is saying they're a member of CNO when they're not, that's one thing. But saying that they are Cherokee, that is not illegal by any measure.
Mark,
This is exactly what is being argued. This last group claimed to be a division of the Cherokee Nation. This is clearly false.
Jeff