What rights do Native Americans have under the law?

Native Americans in Tennessee are protected under many rights under the law. As a sovereign nation, members of a federally recognized tribe are able to govern themselves with their own laws and customs, including the regulation of tribal affairs, property, and resources. The main piece of legislation that protects Native Americans in Tennessee is the Indian Civil Rights Act of 1968 (ICRA). This law ensures that tribal members are provided with certain civil rights guaranteed under the U.S. Constitution such as the right to due process, freedom of speech, and religious expression. It also prohibits tribes from discriminating against their own members on the basis of race, color, or national origin. The Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) also provides protection to Native American children who are in need of foster care or adoption. This federal law requires that tribal courts be involved in any cases where a Native American child is removed from the custody of their parent or guardian. It also ensures that the child’s best interests are taken into consideration. In addition, the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) of 1990 provides protection to the Native American cultural items that may have been destroyed, looted, or stolen in the past. This law requires that any federally funded museums or organizations return these items to the tribe or group that they rightfully belong to. Overall, Tennessee Native Americans have many rights and protections under the law, ranging from civil rights to cultural protection. These laws are in place to ensure that the members of Native American tribes are able to retain and practice their culture and traditions freely.

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