How can I tell a “phoney” tribe from an authentic one?
There are over 300 “Let’s Pretend that we are Cherokee” groups in the United States at this time. We are the only Cherokee tribe entitled to use the Great Seal of the State of Georgia. Many bogus tribes charge fees “for research,” “membership assessments,” “legal fees,” or other dues for “belonging” to them. You are wise to investigate what kind of recognition they have or what kind of benefits they offer before investing your hopes, dreams and reputation in membership. Joining or being members of these organizations would no more “prove” your Cherokee ancestry than membership in The Cherokee Bowling League of Las Vegas NV or The Cherokee Health Center of Oklahoma City. Even those who advertise they are “State Certified” or claim they have “filed for federal recognition” often do not enjoy official status.
