News Summary
U.S. Representatives Hillary Scholten and John James have reintroduced the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act to facilitate federal recognition for the Grand River Bands. With over 30 years of advocacy, the tribe seeks acknowledgment to access crucial resources. The timing aligns with expected findings from the Bureau of Indian Affairs in 2023, marking a significant step towards justice for these historically significant treaty tribes in Michigan.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – U.S. Representatives Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids) and John James (R-Shelby Twp.) have reintroduced the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act, a significant step toward granting federal recognition to the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians. The tribe has been advocating for this recognition for over 30 years, after submitting an initial petition in 2000.
The reintroduction of the legislation comes at a crucial time, as the Bureau of Indian Affairs is expected to provide a potential finding regarding the tribe’s recognition status in 2023. Despite these developments, the Grand River Bands remain one of the last treaty tribes east of the Mississippi River without federal acknowledgment. Currently, the U.S. government formally recognizes 574 tribes, with 12 located in Michigan.
Benefits of Federal Recognition
Achieving federal recognition would enable members of the Grand River Bands to access vital resources such as social services, education, housing, elder care, and treaty rights. The chairman of the Grand River Bands, Ron Yob, expressed appreciation for the legislators’ support and emphasized the importance of justice for tribal members, many of whom currently struggle due to the lack of recognition.
The Grand River Bands primarily inhabit areas along the Grand River and its surrounding waterways in southwest Michigan, with a significant population residing in Kent, Muskegon, and Oceana counties. With current membership at approximately 500, the tribe has seen a reduction in numbers over the years, directly linked to the absence of federal recognition and the benefits that come with it.
Historical Context
The Grand River Bands have a rich history, having signed five treaties between 1795 and 1855 that established their constitutional sovereignty. In February 2023, the tribe was denied recognition, which led to renewed efforts by federal legislators to advocate for their cause. Senator John James characterized the exclusion from federal recognition as unjust, pointing out the need for equal opportunities for the Grand River Bands comparable to those that federally recognized tribes enjoy.
Senator Hillary Scholten highlighted the tribe’s foundational role in the identity of West Michigan and stressed the importance of their recognition as a sovereign entity. The Bureau of Indian Affairs follows a stringent seven-step process to determine tribal recognition, contributing to the lengthy timeline that has characterized the Grand River Bands’ struggle for acknowledgment.
Legislative Support
U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow have expressed optimism that the reintroduced legislation will provide a pathway for the Grand River Bands to finally receive the recognition they have long sought. This renewed focus represents a crucial opportunity for the tribe to reconnect with their heritage and gain access to historical resources that have been denied for decades.
Ron Yob remains hopeful about the potential changes that could arise from federal recognition, emphasizing a commitment among the Grand River Bands to preserve their history and protect their future. The reintroduced Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act not only symbolizes the struggle for justice but also serves as a testament to the resilience of the Grand River Bands in their quest for rightful recognition and support.
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Additional Resources
- Michigan Advance: Grand River Bands Federal Recognition
- Fox17: Federal Recognition for West Michigan Tribe
- WOOD TV: Stabenow and Peters Introduce Bill
- MLive: Grand River Bands Support Recognition Legislation
- Google Search: Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians federal recognition
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
