A proposal by the Crow tribal chair could dramatically change who counts as a Crow tribal member under the “blood quantum” standard, a concept created by White settlers and rooted in assimilation tactics.
Blood quantum refers to the fractional amount of tribal affiliation in an individual’s ancestry, central to identity debates and raising concerns about its implications for tribal membership.
Currently, an individual must “possess one-quarter Crow Indian blood” to enroll in the tribe. However, Chairman Frank Whiteclay's proposed legislation aims to consider all existing members as having 100% Crow blood, which could potentially increase the number of eligible tribal members and afford benefits and services.
This legislation is seen as revolutionary; it could impact not only the 14,289 enrolled members but also generations of their descendants, fostering a more inclusive tribal community.
Tribal citizenship affects access to healthcare, voting rights, educational scholarships, and inheritance, as well as a person's sense of belonging. Thus, Whiteclay's proposal stands to significantly reshape the concept of inclusion in the Crow Tribe.
Blood quantum requirements across multiple tribes have historically restricted membership eligibility. Experts warn that its stringent conditions may jeopardize the future of Native nations. Some argue that this approach inevitably leads to diminishing tribal populations, rendering tribes more vulnerable.
Jill Doerfler, head of American Indian Studies at the University of Minnesota Duluth, posits that tribes using blood quantum effectively impose an expiration date on their membership. She believes resetting blood quantum to 100% for all members could mitigate these concerns by broadening participation and inclusivity within the tribe.
Levi Black Eagle, the tribal secretary and supporter of the legislation, notes the deep personal implications blood quantum has, especially for families interlinked with other tribes. The pain of restrictions on marriage and family growth affects community dynamics and the ability to forge connections.
Whiteclay is determined to see this legislation passed before his term ends in 2028. He emphasizes the need to break the cycle of “lost enrollment” and foster not just legal membership, but community belonging for all Crow people.
Reactions to the proposal have been largely positive, reflecting a desire within the tribe to expand definitions of membership and ensure a vibrant future for Crow culture amid changing demographics.
Overall, the proposal represents a pivotal moment for the Crow Tribe as they navigate traditional identity amid modern challenges and calls for broader inclusivity.
