Native Americans occupy an anomalous position in the United States. Federally recognized tribes are separate sovereigns within the federal system. States have no authority over them except what Congress may give them. Their enrolled members are dual citizens—of the United States and of their tribal nation. Further, by virtue of the Constitution and the fact that the federal government has a trust responsibility toward Native Americans, it means that the federal government can do things for and to Native Americans that it cannot do to any other citizen. This seminar will examine this situation in both historical and contemporary context, with an emphasis on the Indian Citizenship Act of 1924.

This program will be conducted as a discussion, utilizing primary source documents as the only readings, and with the Discussion Leader facilitating the conversation, instead of lecturing or presenting. Registrants, therefore, are highly encouraged to read all the documents in advance and come ready with questions. Teachers will receive a Letter of Attendance at the conclusion of the seminar.