Clatsop-Nehalem Confederated Tribes' Avowal Back in Game

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By Ted Shorack

U.S. Rep. Suzanne, D-Ore., has introduced a bill in the U.S. House calling for federal recognition of the Clatsop-Nehalem Confederated Tribes.

The Oregon Democrat submitted the bill for committee consideration July 28. H.R. 5215 would restore certain federal rights to direct descendants of Clatsop and Nehalem Indians in Clatsop and Tillamook counties.

Clatsop County commissioners approved sending a letter Wednesday in support of the bill.

"The Clatsop-Nehalem people are an important part of Oregon's cultural history," Bonamici said in a statement. "They carry a strong sense of pride in their unique culture, and a deep commitment to their homeland on the North Coast. It is an honor to work on legislation to provide federal recognition to the Clatsop-Nehalem Confederated Tribes."

The Clatsop and Nehalem were among 61 Native American tribes whose recognition was dissolved in August 1954.

Chairman Scott Lee said Wednesday that he considered it one of the "most egregious acts" by the federal government in the last century.

"This legislation would undo the wrong done to the Clatsop and Nehalem people under the Western Oregon Indian Termination Act of 1954, and support their ongoing efforts to maintain and practice their historic culture," the letter of support states.

The bill specifies that any person who descends from the Clatsop Tribe or Nehalem Band of the Tillamooks who signed the Aug. 5 and 6 1851 treaty at Tansy Point are eligible for membership. The act does not require a reservation for federal benefits, but allows members to reside in Tillamook and Clatsop counties.

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. Bonamici is the sole sponsor for the initial introduction.

The hereditary leader of the tribe, Joe Scovell, died Aug. 6. His service is Saturday in Turner.

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