Do Native Americans have cards that certify they are part of a tribe?

Question

Is it like an I.D. that certifies they are American Indian? If anyone knows, what is it called?

Answer 1

Many federally recognized tribes do have some sort of tribal identification card. Most are called CDIB or CIB cards which stand for Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood or Certificate of Indian Blood. They are used to keep track of the number of members of each specific tribe and for identification when an individual seeks services (such as seeing a doctor) on the reservation. They were originally required by the US government with the hopes that tribal enrollment would dwindle through "breeding out."

The blood quantum required varies from tribe to tribe. Most in the eastern regions, especially the Cherokee, have relatively low requirements around 1/16 -- meaning as long as one of your your great-great-grandparents was full-blood Native, you will also qualify as Native. (although I THINK the Cherokees lowered it to 1/32). Meanwhile, most western region tribes, particularly in the southwest require at least 1/4 blood.

All federally recognized tribes track the blood quantum of their enrolled members, however some do not have CIB cards.

This process, however, does not apply to the many tribes that are not federally recognized. This may seem weird, but there are many living Native American tribes that have not been officially recognized by the federal government. My tribe, for example barely gained federal recognition in 1978. Here in Southern California, where I live, there are at least three local tribes that are still fighting for recognition... while others, like the many bands of the Chumash had federal recognition but were later "terminated" - meaning, our federal government would no longer recognize them as Native American.

It's a real complex issue and has stirred up many debates among Natives around themes of tribal sovereignty, identity and community.

Answer 2

Some people, who have a high enough degree may have a CDIB card from the government stating they are a certain percent of whatever tribe. Although that is much like making a dog have papers... I think some tribes may have their own ID cards to though, no different then like most of us have for at least one thing done for another for security sake.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/CDIB

Answer 3

I don't remember what they're called, but you can totally get one if you can prove you're 1/16th native. I think that's the percentage, but I could be wrong. Anyway, yes, they're out there. A couple of my friends have them.

Answer 4

yep
Native American Registration ID & there's other names for other places

Answer 5

yes