Are You Dealing With a Native or a Fake?
I have placed my tribal card (pre marriage one) here to show that, first- I am a member of the
Kiowa tribe of Oklahoma, and second- to give an example of a tribal card to you.  Lets not forget
tho, there are fake cards out there and it's best to call the tribe and be sure they are who they say
they are.
Click here to see a photo of my tribal card
Please email any questions or comments you may have to
Kathy@kiowakat.com
A quote i hope all will think on, i find it appropriate.
"Definition is crucial in this day and age.  People who support a free - for - all with
respect to Indian identity might consider how they usher in the Trojan horse that
seeks the destruction of all American Indian freedoms."
Being conscious of origins in Indian affairs
Posted: May 26, 2005
by: Editors Report / Indian Country Today
   It can be difficult at times to tell whether you are dealing with an
American Indian or someone trying to scam you.  Being raised
amongst natives you can generally tell who you would trust
information from and who you would not.  But for those that have
not been, the task becomes more difficult.
   For the enthusiast, the teachers, and organizers, I can only say,
that If you want to buy items made by American Indians or set up
demonstrations or lectures by American Indians, the best way to
keep from being taken in a fraud is to go by the American Indians
Arts and Crafts act of 1990.  
   The act states that the person selling craftwork,  can only claim
their craftwork is made by an American Indian if they are a member
of a federal or state officially recognized tribe.  Members of such
tribes have the documentation to back up their claim.  
   When purchasing a Native American made item, you should ask
if they are a member of a Federal or State officially recognized tribe.
 If they are not and still selling items as Native American made, they
are breaking the law.  There is also laws concerning non native
traders who buy and sell Native made products which is allowable
to a point.
   While this is not a sure fire way of weeding out the frauds from
the Native art world, it does help considerably.  If you would like
more information on the American Indians Arts and Crafts act of
1990 go to the government office site--->
  
American Indians Arts & Craft Board (D.C.)