WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) reintroduced legislation to grant federal recognition to the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians (GRB). In addition to granting federal recognition to the GRB, the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians Restoration Act would make its members eligible for benefits and services provided by the federal government, including tuition, health care, and housing assistance. U.S. Representatives Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) and John James (R-MI-10) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.
“The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians have been rooted in Michigan for generations. I’m proud to stand alongside them to introduce this bill, which would finally give the Tribe the federal recognition they deserve,” said Senator Peters. “This bill would also make critical resources available to Tribal members and help them better protect their lands for future generations.”
“The Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians have fought for federal recognition for 30 years. They have historic ties to Michigan and treaties dating back to 1795 — but still can’t access the federal programs they’re owed,” said Senator Slotkin. “The State of Michigan recognizes them. The federal government should too. It’s time to honor our promises and deliver the services tribal members were guaranteed.”
“On behalf of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians, I thank Sen. Peters and the delegation members who introduced and co-sponsored this bill, which will provide justice for our tribal members and give them access to resources they deserve and that they have been without for generations,” said Ron Yob, chairman of the Grand River Bands of Ottawa Indians. “After more than three decades of advocacy, we are grateful to Sen. Peters for his leadership and dedication to federal acknowledgement for our tribe.”
The GRB is a native sovereign nation with agreements with the federal government dating back to 1795. The GRB originally included 19 bands of Ottawa people who lived along the Grand River and other waterways in Southwest Michigan. Today, most of the GRB’s membership resides in Kent, Muskegon, and Oceana counties.
Scholten and James’ House companion legislation is supported by Representatives John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-MI-08), Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Lisa McClain (R-MI-09), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12) Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11).
Peters and Slotkin have led efforts to support Tribal communities across Michigan. Earlier this year, the lawmakers introduced bipartisan, bicameral legislation to settle the longstanding land claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) and clear the title of current landowners in the community. The bill – which was advanced by the Senate Indian Affairs Committee in March – authorizes federal funds through the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) that may be used by the KBIC for governmental services, economic development, natural resource protection, and land acquisition.
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