Denied federal recognition, Montana tribe struggles to overcome its history

Splintered Mont. tribe struggles against history

BILLINGS, Mont. — Montana’s Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians is undergoing a major political upheaval following the denial of their federal recognition last fall.

Infighting punctuated by a rogue council election earlier this month has split the tribe’s 4,300 scattered members. Other tribes and the state of Montana are declining to intervene.

That leaves the Little Shell to resolve the divisions on their own risk losing a centurylong struggle to maintain their culture.

So far neither side is giving in.

Tribal President John Sinclair wants to put members of the opposition on trial. Opposition chairman John Gilbert says he hopes state officials will pressure Sinclair into relinquishing power.

Montana recognized the tribe in 2000.