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Indian Removal Act of 1830
Andrew Jackson passed a law authorizing unsettled land west of the Mississippi in exchange for Indian lands within state borders. The passing of this law ultimately forced the Cherokee nation to give up their land and migrate to present-day Oklahoma. This journey is known as the, "Trail of Tears". -
Worcester v. Georgia
States are excluded from regulating or taxing Indian country as this is an infringement on Indigenous sovereignty. -
Meriam Report
This comprehensive report documented great disparities in the health, education, nutrition and economic opportunities for Native Americans. Between the Meriam Report & John Collier, the US was forced to create many changes in its treatment of American Indians. -
Indian Reorganization Act
John Collier, who became the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, created the Indian Reorganization Act. This act put an immediate end to allotment, while advocating for their right to self-governance and sovereignty. -
Indian Relocation Act of 1956
This law encouraged American Indians to leave their reservations and assimilate into mainstream American. This federal initiative promised vocation training, housing and job assistance, though severely under delivered. Lack of support created further marginalization and poverty for these newly relocation American Indians. -
Indian Self-determination and Education Assistance Act
This law allowed for tribes to take over the administration of federal programs to meet the needs in which they deemed important. Under this act, tribes can assume management of health-care programs. -
The Indian Child Welfare Act
Due to the massive displacement of American Indian children, this act intended to promote stability and security of Native family life. This act shifts power from states, so tribal communities can regulate their own child welfare issues. -
Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA)
As part of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, President Obama signed this law into effect. To establish a national policy to deliver health service with the goal of improving heal care deliver by the Indian Health Service, and improving the health status of American Indians.
