Bill would federally recognize Chinook Tribe

Rep. Brian Baird of Washington announced a bill to that would extend federal recognition to the Chinook Nation of Washington.

The tribe welcomed Lewis and Clark to the Pacific Northwest 200 years ago and helped the expedition survive the winter of 1805-06 at the Pacific coast. The Tribe’s attempts to gain federal status resulted in rejection by the Bush administration in July 2002.

“While we can’t change the past, we can change the future,” Baird said. “This bill will ensure the Chinook are finally treated fairly. This is about fixing an injustice; it is simply the right thing to do.”

Under the Chinook Nation Restoration Act, however, the tribe will give up its fishing and hunting rights as well as any land claims.

Rep. Baird backs tribal status for Chinook (The Columbian 8/1)

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