Rick Allen: “I rise in support of Virginia's Indian Tribes and to introduce a bill to extend Federal recognition to six of Virginia's…”

“I rise in support of Virginia's Indian Tribes and to introduce a bill to extend Federal recognition to six of Virginia's Indian Tribes. These Tribes have a rich tradition and history, not only for Virginia, but also for the Nation as a whole. My bill will recognize the Chickahominy Tribe; the Chickahominy Tribe Eastern Division; the Upper Mattaponi Tribe; the Rappahannock Tribe; the Monacan Tribe; and the Nansemond Tribe. The title of the bill is the ``Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recognition Act''. For me, this legislation also has a very personal aspect to it. Thomasina Jordan was a dear friend of mine. As Governor of Virginia, I appointed Thomasina as Chair of the Virginia Council on Indians, and she served as an advisor to me in many ways over the years. Thomasina was a great leader and civil rights activist in Virginia, paving the way for this legislation. Regrettably, she passed away in 1999 after a long and courageous battle with cancer. I offer this legislation in her memory as her last battle on earth was for Federal recognition of Virginia's tribes. Thomasina's efforts to ensure equal rights and recognition to all American Indians continue today in spirit because she was able to have an effect on the lives of so many individuals and encourage many to join her quest for fairness, honor and justice. The American Indians in Virginia contribute to the diverse, exciting nature and heritage of the Commonwealth of Virginia.”