Posted on 05/02/2012 6:38:26 AM PDT by rellimpank
The Cherokee swelled their ranks when they allowed membership open to any quantum,ergo anyone who can trace their lineage to the Dawes roll is afforded full tribal membership. It watered down the benefits to full quantum, accordingly. The Navajo did not play that game and require at least 1/4 quantum for tribal membership. At least one grandparent must be full-blooded in order to get the freebies. At least they have some degree of contact with a tribal member, at least in theory. Not so for the red-headed, freckled-faced boy who spent a summer at the Indian Hospital where I worked. When I asked his quantum, he was too embarrased to answer. I guess a free-ride to dental school isn’t a bad gig for a poor Irish.. I mean Indian boy.
That is because there is no such thing as a full blood Cherokee anymore. However since they discovered Casinos wholesale DNA testing has ensued. I think the Cherokee will accept that kind of data. Paternity courts however will not let you off the hook for child support.
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