Historical Continuity, State Recognition, and Transnational Indigenous Sovereignty This article examines the legal and historical status of the Texas Yorimea Band of Yaqui Indians (Texas Band of Yaqui Indians, TBYI), a Yaqui state-recognized tribe whose ancestors fled 19th-century violence in Sonora and reconstituted in Texas. Drawing on archival documentation, the Nation’s Constitution, Texas legislative records, federal agency correspondence, and letters from traditional Ya

Stories about Yaqui ancestry are incredibly meaningful, but they must be supported by documented family history. Our Tribal Government does not conduct genealogy research for individuals and cannot verify ancestry based on oral stories, including claims involving shamans ( which we receive) or traditional healers. If you wish to explore your family background further, you may find the following resources helpful: • Ancestry.com or FamilySearch.org for building a documente

We have a vibrant and active Native community here in Central Texas. We have many celebrations happening this fall that are open to anyone who wants to learn more about Native culture. The Yara for Taino and Guaytiao is hosting an Indigenous Peoples Day celebration on Sunday, October 9 . For over 25 years, Great Promise for American Indians has hosted the Austin Powwow and American Indian Heritage Festival and hosts monthly potlucks. This year, the Powwow will be on Novembe

Indigenous of Texas Native American Tribes, When and Where they Lived by Amy Heath "Colonialism- the policy or practice of acquiring full or partial political control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting it economically," - Oxford Languages The population of North America changed through colonial settlement in the 1500s-1700s. Most European immigrants arrived to places claimed by Europea

How Native Tribes Use Nonprofits as the First Step to Recognition Many don't know tribes often start with 501(c)(3) formation—here's the government-approved path Texas Band of Yaqui Indians follows: The Standard Tribal Pathway (Per BIA 25 CFR Part 83): Native groups form nonprofits FIRST to prove "continuous existence" and "political authority" required for federal acknowledgment. This IRS process creates bylaws, membership rolls, and governance records that become 70% of th

“Chaco Canyon holds religious significance that spans tribes, borders and continents. Fracking equates to a serious violation against Mother Earth,” said Chaplain Joseph L. Villegas, Sr., of the Texas Band of Yaqui Indians . “Over-development undermines the area and violates the protections and treaties of our Tribal nations that were set forth by the same government that has historically tried to erase this sacred place and cultural heritage sites that don’t belong to them.