Tribal Disenrollment Explained. WHAT IS IT? Whom Does it Harm?

 After 15 years in the public fight against my family's disenrollment from Pechanga at the hands of the Macarro brothers, I'm constantly surprised at how many people STILL have never heard the term.  I explain it here for you.

Tribal disenrollment refers to the removal of individuals from the official membership rolls of a tribe, and it can have far-reaching and devastating consequences for both individuals and communities. It is quite simply, a DISASTER to Indian Country.

Disenrollment results in the loss of access to important resources, cultural identity, and political representation, and it is widely seen as a violation of both civil and human rights.  Disenrollment can have a negative impact on tribal unity and cohesion, and undermines the goals of tribal sovereignty and self-governance.

The impact of disenrollment is felt deeply, as it can disrupt families, lead to division, and cause harm to the mental health and well-being of those who are affected. The issue of tribal disenrollment raises important questions about the rights of Native Americans, cultural preservation, and the principles of justice and equality. 

Disenrollment dishonors the ancestors of Native Americans by disregarding the traditions and cultural heritage that have been passed down for generations. For many Native American tribes, membership is determined by bloodline and is seen as a direct connection to their ancestors. Disenrollment severs this connection, causing harm to the individual's cultural identity and damaging their sense of belonging and community.  If tribes that disenroll were really concerned about kinship, they wouldn't do this despicable thing.

The loss of cultural identity and connection to one's heritage that  results from disenrollment can also have far-reaching and long-lasting impacts, as it can disrupt families and entire communities and lead to the loss of important cultural knowledge and traditions. This can result in a disconnection from the cultural practices and beliefs that have been passed down by ancestors, and a loss of respect for their legacy.

In many cases, disenrollment can also result in the loss of access to sacred sites and cultural resources, further dishonoring the ancestors and our traditions.  

Disenrollment dishonors the ancestors of Native Americans by disregarding the traditions and cultural heritage that have been passed down for generations. It is important for tribes and the broader community to recognize the harm caused by disenrollment and to work together to find solutions that respect the rights of all members, preserve cultural heritage, and uphold the principles of justice and equality.