Federal Recognition – For the Muwekma, a Previously Federally Recognized Tribe:
Is a Birthright Denied
It
THE MUWEKMA OHLONE: A BIRTHRIGHT DENIED
Indigenous to the San Francisco Bay Area for thousands of years.
Population reduced from ~30,000 to just over 600 due to colonization and injustice.
Served in the U.S. military from WWI to present.
Previously federally recognized under 25 CFR Part 83.8 but status removed in 1927.
Federal
Recognition & Loss of Status
Federal recognition = sovereignty, benefits, and government-togovernment relationship.
Muwekma recognized as the Verona Band of Alameda County in early 1900s.
Removed from Federal Register in 1927 with 134 other California tribes.
Multiple enrollments with the BIA (1928–71) ignored in 2002 denial. Evidence and history dismissed by officials and courts.
Persistent advocacy from California to Washington D.C.
Horseback journey from San Francisco to D.C. to raise awareness.
Recognition is not a privilege—it is their birthright.
The Muwekma Ohlone remain committed to reclaiming their rightful status.
Learn more: muwekma.org