Despite recent gains, tribal citizens descended from slaves face disparate treatment

By SAVANNAH PETERS and GRAHAM LEE BREWER, Associated Press

MCLOUD, Okla. (AP) — Tribal citizens whose Black ancestors were enslaved by citizens of several tribal nations in Oklahoma are starting to see more inclusive access to Native American health care, education and other social services, but barriers remain.

Federal and tribal agencies have worked in recent years to clarify eligibility requirements and train on-the-ground staff. But a report released by the Government Accountability Office ahead of Black History Month shows there is more work to be done when it comes to the treatment of Freedmen descendants.

The COVID-19 pandemic helped to lift the veil on what longtime activist Marilyn Vann called disparate treatment of the descendants. She pointed to high-profile cases in which people were denied vaccines and financial aid while the virus was surging.

“Certainly there are more doors open now, but that doesn’t undo the harm,” Vann said, adding that a “chilling effect” prevents many Freedmen descendants from seeking out services they’re entitled to.