Determine Eligibility for Cherokee Tribal Status: Ancestry vs. Blood Quantum

The eligibility criteria for Cherokee tribal membership can be a complex topic, as it varies based on the specific rules of each tribe. Not all Cherokee tribes require a certain percentage of blood quantum, as is the case with the Cherokee Nation.

Cherokee Nation

In the case of the Cherokee Nation, blood quantum is not a factor in deciding tribal membership. Instead, membership is based on Ancestry, specifically lineal descent from an ancestor who is listed on the Dawes Rolls.

The Dawes Rolls are historical records that were created in the late 19th century to assign allotments of land to individual members of several Native American tribes. For the Cherokee Nation, this means that individuals must prove lineal descent from a member listed on the final Dawes Rolls with blood quantum listed.

A Case Study

For instance, consider a member of the Cherokee Nation whose wife had no idea her 2nd great grandmother is listed on the Creek Muskogee Nation’s Dawes Rolls as 1/32. Under the Cherokee Nation's criteria, she enrolled full benefits as 1/512 by blood, Muskogee Creek Nation, a designation she was previously unaware of. This illustrates that blood quantum is not the only deciding factor in Cherokee Nation membership.

Engagement with the Cherokee Nation

Individuals seeking membership in the Cherokee Nation must provide clear and verifiable documentation. This typically includes birth, marriage, and death certificates, or any other historical records confirming their ancestry. The process of finding and verifying these records can be quite challenging, but the rewards of membership can be significant.

Additionally, the Cherokee Nation has always acknowledged historical inaccuracies and gaps in documentation. They have made many concessions to those of Cherokee heritage who are not eligible for tribal membership due to non-availability of Dawes Roll records. However, these individuals must still prove a direct bloodline to a member on the Dawes Rolls or other relevant historical records.

Travelling the Path to Membership

For those interested in pursuing Cherokee tribal membership, the best course of action is to visit the Cherokee Nation headquarters in Tahlequah or communicate with them directly via phone or email. Online information and claims can often be misleading and inaccurate. The Cherokee Nation has the resources and knowledge to verify your documentation accurately.

Many people mistakenly believe they have Cherokee ancestry when there is no evidence to support this claim. It is crucial to verify your claims with the Cherokee Nation themselves to ensure that your application is processed correctly and efficiently.

Discussing Ancestry with Experts

While it may be tempting to seek answers online, it is essential to speak directly with the Cherokee Nation about your ancestry. Professionals and members of the Cherokee Nation can provide guidance and answer your questions in a reliable and accurate manner.

Discussing your ancestry online may lead to misinformation and disappointment. Always consult with the Cherokee Nation for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding membership.