Gabrielino/Tongva Nation Recognition Act of 2023
By granting federal recognition, the bill empowers the Gabrielino/Tongva Nation to establish a government-to-government relationship with the United States. The Act ensures that the Tribe and its members are eligible for federal services and benefits, which includes education, healthcare, and economic development assistance. Moreover, it allows the Tribe to manage its membership roll and receive land into trust for future development and cultural preservation. This is expected to enhance the Tribe's ability to reclaim its heritage and foster community development efforts.
House Bill 6859, known as the Gabrielino/Tongva Nation Recognition Act of 2023, seeks to extend federal recognition to the Gabrielino/Tongva Nation. This recognition is significant as it formally acknowledges the Tribe's identity and existence as the original inhabitants of the Los Angeles Basin. The bill cites historical injustices and the need to restore the Tribe's rights and connections to their ancestral lands, alongside offering them access to federal benefits and services available to other federally recognized tribes.
The discussions surrounding HB 6859 have highlighted not only the historical significance of recognizing the Tribe but also the practical implications it entails. Proponents laud the bill as a step towards justice for the Gabrielino/Tongva Nation, considering their long-standing struggles for recognition and rights. However, there may be concerns among some groups regarding the potential implications for land claims, property management, and local governance, as the acknowledgment of tribal sovereignty can sometimes lead to debates over land use and state jurisdiction in areas historically inhabited by the Tribe.