What makes someone legally defined as a Native American?

Question

In the United States, what percentage do you have to be in order to be considered a Native American?

In the United States, what percentage do you have to be in order to be considered a Native American?
What if my Grandmother was full, and my grandfather was half, do I count?
Also, what if I live in the United States and the tribe is in Canada (My dad has a green card)

Answer 1

There are actually two criteria to be legally considered a Native American.

#1. You need a Certificate of Indian Blood (CIB). Without a CIB, it doesn't matter if you are even full-blooded Native American, the government will not consider you a Native American. To be eligible for a CIB, one or both parents must submit a copy of their CIB to a tribal enrollment office along with a copy of your birth certificate.

#2. Blood quantum. This varies from tribe to tribe, however the standard tends to be 1/4 blood.

Answer 2

Legal Definition Of Native American

Answer 3

This Site Might Help You.

RE:
What makes someone legally defined as a Native American?
In the United States, what percentage do you have to be in order to be considered a Native American?

Answer 4

Very interesting answers from the rest of those who responded. I lived on the reserve most of my life, even grew up out here on the reserve. Every time I have left, the land has called me back. I have never believe that it takes some government or status card, or even tribal cards which they use in the states to tell me I'm native. I not only feel it in my heart, blood, culture and believes on who I am. But my mom also told me to learn the white man's ways in order to get along with everyone, but never forget who I am. So now, I use my English name for tax reasons, and so they can keep track of me with a number that the government provides. Which makes me wonder why white people don't caring these cards to prove there white. I know I'm native.

Answer 5

Mostly...it depends on culture...were you raised in it, or are connected to the family that is still in it and accept among the tribe? Other then that, different tribes are going to have different percentages of 'blood' to be considered... But even if you still have it but no connection or anything, you are still who you are even if you can really only just say you are part _____ Indian along with the rest of that you are.

I've got a little bit in there, and I know what ones, but I don't claim it any farther then it's there but not much.

Answer 6

you have to be 1/8 and more and prove that you are a native american, you have to show records that show the blood line, and if your grandparents are syill around that is more proof but if not try to get all the birth records of your family tree. and go to the councel and tell them who you are and that you can prove that you have 1/8 or more blood line.

Answer 7

Native refers to any person born, or whose culture/geneaology/social customs/language was recorded as the first recognizable group of people in that country, or geographical region.

Answer 8

Your matriarchal (mother's) line has to have some First Nations.

Answer 9

1/4 or entirety

Answer 10

the tribal council of the nation has to agree with your claim. the bureau of Indian affairs, once they agree, will issue a registration ID card