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.

Did you know hundreds of Yaqui warriors from Sonora crossed the Atlantic to fight in Spanish Morocco during the Rif War? Spanish Morocco was located along the northern coast of modern day Morocco, right where Africa meets the Mediterranean Sea. They sailed as elite soldiers for the Spanish Foreign Legion recruited for their unmatched guerrilla skills after centuries resisting in Sonora's mountains.  THE TIMELINE 1921: Spain reels from the Battle of Annual disaster in Morocco'

Learn about the history, culture, and religion of the Yaqui people on this virtual exhibit tour with Miss Mae. Includes discussion questions https://youtu.be/VOMwE0WPphE?si=JW4mfNma58Mb-lZ2

The Texas Band of Yaqui Indians exhibit at the Overland Trails Museum in Fort Davis, Texas, is a significant cultural and historical resource for the community. The exhibit is part of the museum's collection, which includes memorabilia and artifacts from the original San Antonio-El Paso Road. The museum is housed in the 1883 home and office of Nick Mersfelder, a pioneer and photographer. The exhibit showcases the rich history and culture of the Yaqui people, including their c

We are committed to serving our Tribal Members across Arizona, California, New Mexico, Texas, many other states throughout the U.S. and our Homelands in Sonora. We stay connected, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride among our members. Our mission is to celebrate and preserve our rich heritage while promoting growth and unity. We recognize the importance of our traditions, languages, and customs. Our initiatives include: Hosting cultural events and festivals tha

The Texas Band of Yaqui Indians is a state-recognized tribal government acknowledged by the Texas Legislatur e through Senate Resolution 989, authored and sponsored by Senator Charles Perry. This legislative action represents the highest and only available form of tribal recognition in the State of Texas, as Texas does not maintain an administrative recognition process or tribal affairs office. Senate Resolution 989 formally affirms the Tribe’s historical presence, cultural c

Many people unfamiliar with Texas law ask why recognition comes through a resolution rather than a state office or commission. The answer is simple: • Texas does not maintain a state recognition program • Texas does not have a tribal affairs office • Texas does not issue certificates or enrollment oversight for tribes • Texas ended all administrative recognition pathways decades ago Because of this, legislative action is the only formal route for a tribe to be acknowledge