It happened on Friday, but word is just now getting around: A federal ruling has in effect given the West Seattle-headquartered Duwamish Tribe another chance at federal recognition, something they have been seeking for more than 35 years. As reported today by Indianz.com, federal Judge John Coughenour has told the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs to re-evaluate the Duwamish petition. The tribe was on the brink of gaining recognition in the final days of the Clinton Administration in early 2001, but the incoming (George W.) Bush Administration reversed the decision. Our partners at The Seattle Times quote Duwamish Tribe chair Cecile Hansen as saying, “I’m in a delighted state of shock” about Friday’s decision. Case documents are linked here. (File photo of Cecile Hansen by Christopher Boffoli)
West Seattle, Washington
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