The fraudulent Indian Task Force was created to preserve and protect Native American culture, traditions, and ways of life. The number of fake/fraudulent people claiming they are Native American has been increasing at an alarming rate. This task force was created out of necessity- to expose and stop non-Native American people claiming they are a part of Native American culture. In most cases, these people are actually breaking the law besides inventing and misrepresenting Native American culture.
The task force was also wants to educate and inform the public about Native American culture. Many groups, even state recognized groups, are calling themselves tribes. These groups allow anyone to join for a few dollars. The Native American culture is not for sale. Legitimate Native Americans are members of federally recognized tribes. These are Native Americans that were placed on reservations by the US Government in the 1800′s. At this time Native Americans were not considered citizens of the US. Because they were considered hostile, the United States government kept records of every Native American.
This task force’s goal is to clean up Florida so that anyone attending a Native American event will see actual Native Americans as host, vendors, and participants.
If you encounter anyone claiming to be Native American and you are unsure, ask to see their tribal membership card. If they do not present one, you can assume they are not Native American. All legitimate Native Americans have tribal membership cards. If they do present a tribal membership card write down all the information on the card- name, member number, tribe, and state. The Department of the Interior has a department called the Bureau of Indian Affairs. They provide a list of all federally recognized tribes. Here is a link: Federally Recognized Tribes Check the list to see if the tribe listed. We also suggest you call the tribe if you are still unsure. Fraudulant cards have been made. If you do not want to or know how to check the status if someone is Native American or not, send us all the information you have and we will do the research for you. Fake/frauds usually complain when you ask to see a tribal card because they run the risk of being exposed. Legitimate Native Americans are proud to show their card and grateful to see someone checking tribal status.
To contact the Fraudulent Indian Task Force Email: Indigenoussounds@gmail.com or call (941)726-5111