Where do I start, and how?

by Leland P. Morrill Adopted Native American Citizenship Affected by The REAL ID Act of 2005 on Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 5:24pm
Change...kinda hard huh. I was just watching my online friend Ryan Yezak's video Moving On, very inspiring.
HERE IT IS just in case you need some inspiration in your life:

One area of my life that has had a continual focus has been on the years of research to obtain my Navajo Nation Birth Affidavit and membership back into the Navajo Nation. I thought perhaps it would be a great idea now that some time has passed to start and catalogue or write steps to help others. Any suggestions of areas where to take this page from here forward is something I am struggling with.
breathe, breathe breathe

First off, if you don't have any understanding of the Real ID Act, you can read the Wikipedia content here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/REAL_ID_Act and then you can "GOOGLE" the subject if you feel you need to.

How does The Real ID ACT of 2005 affect me?
When you apply or renew a State issued Identification Card or Drivers License you will have to supply proof of your existence.

For most people this will be easy. You will need:
An original copy of your State issued Birth Certificate
An original copy of your Social Security Card issued by the Social Security Administration
a photo, usually taken on the spot once you have provided the first two. Just out of habit, of renewing, you'll probably show your current expiring State issued ID or DL card.
Pay the fee and you're done.

This page/blog is more for Native Americans born within one of the fifty States of America who were adopted out of their tribe without proper documentation such as a State issued Birth Certificate or National (Native Nation) Birth Certificate/Affidavit. Sometime in addition to not having a birth document, you may not be enrolled into your respective Nation or Tribe, as in my case.

Where do you go from here if the local DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) denies you a State issued identification card or drivers license card?
If you're an adopted Native American, one of the first places to start your search is your Final Judgement of Adoption, aka adoption papers. Make sure you have an original copy, or a certified copy. If, over the years you only have a photocopy, or G*d-forbid, a mimeographed one (LOL) then you'll need to contact the issuing Family Court.

Be thankful today we live in the INFORMATION AGE. GOOGLE, or search for the address, website, telephone number of the issuing Family Court. It's a great idea to call them. Find out what form, or if you have to write a letter, what is required and start assembling that and send it off. These days, who knows, it may be as easy as filling out an online form, submitting it and paying it with a credit/debit card and then waiting for them to send you an original copy of your Final Judgement of Adoption. You may be required to download, print, fill it out, sign, date and then have it notorized. Some copy, office supply stores have notaries & the prices will vary. Here in Los Angeles, the price of a notary I used at Coast Stationary in my neighborhood on Spring Street here in Los Angeles.

My local Notary Public is located at an office supply store here in Los Angeles on Spring Street!

Coast Stationary was great for me as they also had a fax machine, internet as well as the notary service. They charged me a $10.00 notary fee. That will give you an idea of how much it may cost you to notarize your documents as you continue to research your documentation. By the way, it's a great idea to purchase multiple copies of "originals" from the State or National Family Court because you may end up having to one to a State Vital Statistics office, another to a "Native" Nation Vital Statistics office and then, OH YEA!!!! YOU NEED at least ONE! :D
Just sayin!

On your Final Judgement of Adoption look to see if your birth date, birth location and census number are on it. If they are not. Call back the State or National Family Court and ask why they are not on the document. In my case, for some mysterious reason, the Navajo Nation, Bureau of Indian Affairs, State of Arizona turned a blind eye to this and Judge Joe Benalley signed off on the adoption and my parents fled off to Canada with me and my Navajo sister the day after our adoption, July 16, 1971. Yup...well actually, my adopted dad was transferred with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. (A whole other "story"). Getting back on subject. Sometimes, as in my case, the adopting parents were supposed to fill out the application for a birth certificate and the application will still be laying in a file somewhere. If not. you're going to have to start your search.

If your adopted parents are still alive, ask them all the questions you can currently think of about your adoption. Find out any stories they heard along the way of adopting you. If you were a foster child, what was your last name, did you have siblings, aunties, uncles, cousins, etc. Are there any pre-adoption medical records? What hospitals, medical centers?

WRITE EVERYTHING DOWN.
Utilize the internet.
If you do not have the internet at home, find an internet cafe, or a wi-fi hotspot. If you have a public library, use their computers or utilize their "hotspot" with your own laptop/netbook. I'm in my local library writing this note/blogpost...Yup, The Central Library downtown LA. :D

Tuesday June 21, 2011, Central Library, Los Angeles, California.

After you've written everything down, applied and sent off the necessary forms for your original copies of your adoption papers... that's your starting point.
The next entry will start where this one ended.
IF you have any suggestions about this entry, PLEASE "comment". Oh, an LIKE my page

Navajo Nation celebrates the Treaty of Peace Between the Navajo Indian Tribe and the United States of America...I had to read it

by Leland P. Morrill Adopted Native American Citizenship Affected by The REAL ID Act of 2005 on Wednesday, June 1, 2011 at 8:52pm
My name is Leland Pacheco Morrill, born Leland Pacheco Kirk, son of Linda Carolyn Kirk and Edward Pacheco. My mothers Maternal Clan is Many Goats Clan and her paternal Clan is the Tangle Clan.
I was adopted prior to the 1978 Indian Welfare Act during the time of the Adoption Resource Exchange of North America (ARENA) on July 14, 1971 out of Chinle Arizona to an Ango Mormon family, the Morrills. Judge Joe Bennalley was the Trial Court Judge of the Navajo Tribe who separated me from the Navajo Nation by not assigning me a Census Number, nor referring to my Navajo parents by name or writing in my Final Judgement of Adoption the date of my birth. All these proved successfully to separate me from my native Nation.

It is because of this separation and my determination and law, The Real ID ACT of 2005, that I finally successfully gained membership into the Nation of my birthright on April 11, 2011, almost 40 years after my adoption and through 22 years of research. Because of my inquisitive nature and knowing the Navajo Nation is in celebratory spirits over this Treaty between the Tribe and America, it perked my interest as to what the treaty was about.


I do not speak Navajo, but hope to some day, and also would like to know stories of The Long Walk from Fort Sumpter New Mexico in now where Highway 60 and 86 meet some 300 miles from Chinle, Arizona where I was adopted out of and 328 mile from Fort Defiance where the Navajo Nation Vital Statistics assigned my birth after long discussing and thought this past April.

Leland Pacheco Morrill born Leland Pacheco Kirk...undocumented until April 11, 2011


On June 1, 1968 29 Navajo "headmen" signed the Treaty of Peace Between the Navajo Indian Tribe and the United States of America.


I'm sure few even have read this treaty or know of the Navajo signers:
Barboncito, Chief

Armijo, Delgado, Manuelito, Largo, Herrero, Chiqueto, Muerto De Hombre, Hombro, Narbono, Narbono Segundo, Ganado Mucho

or the Council:

Riquo, Juan Martin, Serginto, Grande, Inoetenito, Muchachos Mucho, Chiqueto Segundo, Cabello Amarillo, Francisco, Torivio, Desdendado, Juan, Guero, Gugadore, Cabason, Barbon Segundo, Cabares Colorados.

First I will go over what my thought are as I'm reading the Treaty for the FIRST TIME. Then afterward is the actual wording of the Treaty so you may understand where my thoughts came from as I was reading through the Treaty of 1968.

Before I start, Happy Independance Day to the Navajo Nation June 1, 2011, my first as a member of the Navajo Nation.

Here goes:

In Article 2 Fort Defiance, in Canon Bonito, is named as the Northern edge of the Navajo Nation Fort Defiance. This is where the Navajo Nation Vital Statistics personnel, Alisia, thought was closest to where I may have been born, this is where I am assigned. Also, as a child I remember hiking down Canyon de Chelly, also named as Canon-de-Chilly in the Treaty.

The costs of buildings to start the nation as being interesting:

Warehouse <=$2,500.00 Agency Building/ (agent "for" the Navajo's) Residence <= $3,000.00 Carpenter Shop $1,000.00 Blacksmith Shop $1,000.00 School $5,000.00 Chapel $5,000.00 This treaty refers to head of a family, where recognition of a matriachial society is not mentioned, the writing is in the masculine only, for homesteading up to 160 acres or any person 18 years old without a family or not being a head of household to have up to 80 acres to cultivate to be known as settlers. It's interesting to read in Article 7 how each farmer receives the first year $100.00 and second and succeeeding years $25.00 for seeds and implementation. I do like how the Treaty provided for education of children ages 6-16 and for a schoolhouse to be provided for every 30 with a teacher, but the thought of only an English Education bothers me, because I myself do not speak Navajo after being separated from my Nation through adoption by one of their own, Judge Joe G. Bennalley. In Article 8 it talks of providing clothing and goods of <=$5.00 to make clothing and blankets and then $10.00 for ten additional years those who do farming or "mechanical" jobs. So making the Navajo Nation industrious or keeping it so, was paramount in this 1868 Treaty. The railroad seemed to be a cause for concern and opposition to it's construction as well. Makes me wonder what a scalp looks like after reading Article 9, 5. I do like how provision of obstruction, such as buildings, railroad, roads, etc are to be compensated to the Navajo Nation within this Treaty. I also like how in Article 10 a vote of 3/4 of the adult male Indians, I'm guessing these would be head of household or males over 18 years of age must be made for any changes in the treaty but am wondering if and how this has been honored throughout time. I'm not liking the wording of "removal, to the reservation" in Article 11. It makes Navajo's sound like cattle, less than human. Then again, there was a long walk of 300 miles. As for the cost of removal $150,000.00 doesn't seem like alot for a removal and starting a new Nation, The Navajo Nation, just before a winter. $50,000.00(estimate) for the removal of the tribe from the Bosque Redonodo Reservation to the Reservation. 15,000 sheep: <=$30,000.00 500 beef cattle 1,000,000 lbs of corn for the relief of the "needy" for the upcoming winter after the 1968 removal onto the Reservation. One part of this Treaty I do not like is Article 8 where it states: " if any Navajo Indian or Indians shall leave the reservation herein described to settle elsewhere, he or they shall forfeit all the rights, privileges, and annuities conferred by the terms of this treaty". My reasoning comes from my own removal through adoption pre-1978 Indian Welfare Act during the time the Child Welfare League of America used A.R.E.N.A., Adoption Resource Exchange of North America program to remove me as a minor off the Navajo Reservation. Oh, Happy Memorial Day 2011!! Happy Memorial Day May 30, 2011 from Santa Monica Beach California Below is the actual wording of the Treaty of 1868

Treaty of Peace Between the Navajo Indian Tribe and the United States of America
Concluded June 1, 1868
Ratification advised July 25, 1868
Proclaimed August 12, 1868


ANDREW JOHNSON
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
OF AMERICA


TO ALL AND SINGULAR TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, GREETING:
Whereas a Treaty was made and concluded at Fort Sumner, in the Territory of New Mexico, on the first day of June, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-eight, by and between Lieutenant General W. T. Sherman and
Samuel F. Tappan, Commissioners, on the part of the United States, and Barboncito, Armijo, and other Chiefs and Headmen of the Navajo tribe of Indians, on the part of said Indians, and duly authorized thereto by them, which Treaty is in the words and figures following, to wit:

Articles of a Treaty and Agreement made and entered into at Fort Sumner, New Mexico, on the first day of June, 1868, by and between the United States, represented by its Commissioners, Lieutenant General W. T. Sherman and Colonel
Samuel F. Tappan, of the one part, and the Navajo nation or tribe of Indians, represented by their Chiefs and Headmen, duly authorized and empowered to act for the whole people of said nation or tribe, (the names of said Chiefs and Headmen being hereto subscribed,) of the other part, witness:


ARTICLE I.

From this day forward all war between the parties to this agreement shall for ever cease. The government of the United States desires peace, and its honor is hereby pledged to keep it. The Indians desire peace, and they now pledge their honor to keep it.


If bad men among the whites, or among other people subject to the authority of the United States, shall commit any wrong upon the person or property of the Indians, the United States will, upon proof made to the agent and forwarded to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs at Washington city, proceed at once to cause the offender to be arrested and punished according to the laws of the United States, and also to reimburse the injured persons for the loss sustained.
If bad men among the Indians shall commit a wrong or depredation upon the person or property of any one, white, black, or Indian, subject to the authority of the United States and at peace therewith, the Navajo tribe agree that they will, on
proof made to their agent, and on notice by him, deliver up the wrongdoer to the United States, to be tried and punished according to its laws; and in case they wilfully refuse so to do, the person injured shall be reimbursed for his loss from the annuities or other moneys due or to become due them under this treaty, or any others that may be made with the United States. And the President may prescribe such rules and regulations for ascertaining damages under this article as in his judgment may be proper; but no such damage shall be adjusted and paid until examined and passed upon by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and no one sustaining loss whilst violating, or because of his violating, the provisions of this treaty or the laws of the United States shall be reimbursed therefor.


ARTICLE II.

The United States agrees that the following district of country, to wit: bounded on the north by the 37th degree of north latitude, south by an east and west line passing through the site of old Fort Defiance, in Canon Bonito, east by the parallel of longitude which, if prolonged south, would pass through old Fort Lyon, or the Ojo-de-oso, Bear Spring, and west by a parallel of longitude about 109' 30' west of Greenwicb, provided it embraces the outlet of the Canon-de-Chilly, which canon is to be all included in this reservation, shall be, and the same is hereby, set apart for the use and occupation of the Navajo tribe of Indians, and for such other friendly tribes or individual Indians as from time to time they may be willing, with the consent of the United States, to admit among them; and the United States agrees that no persons except those herein so authorized to do, and except such officers, soldiers, agents, and employes of the government, or of the Indians, as may be authorized to enter upon Indian reservations in discharge of duties imposed by law, or the orders of the President, shall ever be permitted to pass over, settle upon, or reside in, the territory described in this article.


ARTICLE III.

The United States agrees to cause to be built at some point within said reservation, where timber and water may be convenient, the following buildings: a warehouse, to cost not exceeding twenty-five hundred dollars; an agency building for the residence of the agent, not to cost exceeding three thousand dollars; a carpenter shop and blacksmith shop, not to cost exceeding one thousand dollars each; and a school-house and chapel, so soon as a sufficient number of children can be induced to attend school, which shall not cost to exceed five thousand dollars.


ARTICLE IV.

The United States agrees that the agent for the Navajos shall make his home at the agency building; that he shall reside among them and shall keep an office open at all times for the purpose of prompt and diligent inquiry into such matters of complaint by or against the Indians as may be presented for investigation, as also for the faithful discharge of other duties enjoined by law. In all cases of depredation on person or property he shall cause the evidence to be taken in writing and forwarded, together with his finding, to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, whose decision shall be binding on the parties to this treaty.


ARTICLE V.

If any individual belonging to said tribe, or legally incorporated with it, being the head of a family, shall desire to commence farming, he shall have the privilege to select, in the presence and with the assistance of the agent then in charge, a tract of land within said reservation, not exceeding one hundred and sixty acres in extent, which tract, when so selected, certified, and recorded in the "land book" as herein described, shall cease to be held in common, but the same may be occupied and held in the exclusive possession of the person selecting it, and of his family, so long as he or they may continue to cultivate it.

Any person over eighteen years of age, not being the head of the family, may in like manner select, and cause to be certified to him or her for purposes of cultivation, a quantity of land, not exceeding eighty acres in extent, and thereupon be entitled to the exclusive possession of the same as above directed.


For each tract of land so selected a certificate containing a description thereof, and the name of the person selecting it, with a certificate endorsed thereon that the same has been recorded, shall be delivered to the party entitled to it by the agent, after the same shall have been recorded by him in a book to be kept in his office, subject to inspection which said book shall be known as the "Navajo Land Book."
The President may at any time order a survey of the reservation, and, when so surveyed, Congress shall provide for protecting the rights of said settlers in their improvements, and may fix the character of the title held by each. The United States may pass such laws on the subject of alienation and descent of property between the Indians and their descendants as may be thought proper.


ARTICLE VI.

In order to insure the civilization of the Indians entering into this treaty, the necessity of education is admitted, especially of such of them as may be settled on said agricultural parts of this reservation, and they therefore pledge themselves to compel their children, male and female, between the ages of six and sixteen years, to attend school; and it is hereby made the duty of the agent for said Indians to see that this stipulation is strictly complied with; and the United States agrees that, for every thirty children between said ages who can be induced or compelled to attend school, a house shall be provided, and a teacher competent to teach the elementary branches of an English education shall be furnished, who will reside among said Indians, and faithfully discharge his or her duties as a teacher.


The provisions of this article to continue for not less than ten years.


ARTICLE VII.

When the head of a family shall have selected lands and received his certificate as above directed, and the agent shall be satisfied that he intends in good faith to commence cultivating the soil for a living, he shall be entitled to receive seeds and agricultural implements for the first year, not exceeding in value one hundred dollars, and for each succeeding year he shall continue to farm, for a period of two years, he shall be entitled to receive seeds and implements to the value of twenty-five dollars.

ARTICLE VIII.

In lieu of all sums of money or other annuities provided to be paid to the Indians herein named under any treaty or treaties heretofore made, the United States agrees to deliver at the agency house on the reservation herein named, on the first day of September of each year for ten years, the following articles, to wit:


Such articles of clothing, goods, or raw materials in lieu thereof, as the agent may make his estimate for, not exceeding in value five dollars per Indian-each Indian being encouraged to manufacture their own clothing, blankets, etc.; to be furnished with no article which they can manufacture themselves. And, in order that the Commissioner of Indian Affairs may be able to estimate properly for the articles herein named, it shall be the duty of the agent each year to forward to him a full and exact census of the Indians, on which the estimate from year to year can be based.
And in addition to the articles herein named, the sum of ten dollars for each person entitled to the beneficial effects of this treaty shall be annually appropriated for a period of ten years, for each person who engages in farming or mechanical pursuits, to be used by the Commissioner of Indian Affairs in the purchase of such articles as from time to time the condition and necessities of the Indians may indicate to be proper; and if within the ten years at any time it shall appear that the amount of money needed for clothing, under the article, can be appropriated to better uses for the Indians named herein, the Commissioner of Indian Affairs may change the appropriation to other purposes, but in no event shall the amount of this appropriation be withdrawn or discontinued for the period named, provided they remain at peace. And the President shall annually detail an officer of the army to be present and attest the delivery of all the goods herein named to the Indians, and he shall inspect and report on the quantity and quality of the goods and the manner of
their delivery.


ARTICLE IX.

In consideration of the advantages and benefits conferred by this treaty, and the many pledges of friendship by the United States, the tribes who are parties to this agreement hereby stipulate that they will relinquish all right to occupy any territory outside their reservation, as herein defined, but retain the right to hunt on any unoccupied lands contiguous to their reservation, so long as the large game may range thereon in such numbers as to justify the chase; and they, the said Indians, further expressly agree:

That they will make no opposition to the construction of railroads now being built or hereafter to be built, across the continent.
That they will not interfere with the peaceful construction of any railroad not passing over their reservation as herein defined.
That they will not attack any persons at home or travelling, nor molest or disturb any wagon trains, coaches, mules or cattle belonging to the people of the United States, or to persons friendly therewith.
That they will never capture or carry off from the settlements women or children.
They will never kill or scalp white men, nor attempt to do them harm.
They will not in future oppose the construction of railroads, wagon roads, mail stations, or other works of utility or necessity which may be ordered or permitted by the laws of the United States; but should such roads or other works be constructed on the lands of their reservation, the government will pay the tribe whatever amount of damage may be assessed by three disinterested commissioners to be appointed by the President for that purpose, one of said commissioners to be a chief or head man of the tribe.
They will make no opposition to the military posts or roads now established, or that may be established, not in violation of treaties heretofore made or hereafter to be made with any of the Indian tribes.


ARTICLE X.

No future treaty for the cession of any portion or part of the reservation herein described, which may be held in common, shall be of any validity or force against said Indians unless agreed to and executed by at least three-fourths of all the adult male Indians occupying or interested in the same; and no cession by the tribe shall be understood or construed in such manner as to deprive, without his consent, any individual member of the tribe of his rights to any tract of land selected by him as provided in article 5 of this treaty.


ARTICLE XI.

The Navajos also hereby agree that at any time after the signing of these presents they will proceed in such manner as may be required of them by the agent, or by the officer charged with their removal, to the reservation herein provided for, the United States paying for their subsistence en route, and providing a reasonable amount of transportation for the sick and feeble.


ARTICLE XII.

It is further agreed by and between the parties to this agreement that the sum of one hundred and fifty thousand dollars appropriated or to be appropriated shall be disbursed as follows, subject to any conditions provided in the law, to wit:
The actual cost of the removal of the tribe from the Bosque Redondo reservation to the reservation, say fifty thousand dollars.
The purchase of fifteen thousand sheep and goats, at a cost not to exceed thirty thousand dollars.
The purchase of five hundred beef cattle and a million pounds of corn, to be collected and held at the military post nearest the reservation, subject to the orders of the agent, for the relief of the needy during the coming winter.
The balance, if any, of the appropriation to be invested for the maintenance of the Indians pending their removal, in such manner as the agent who is with them may determine.
The removal of this tribe to be made under the supreme control and direction of the military commander of the Territory of New Mexico, and when completed, the management of the tribe to revert to the proper agent.

ARTICLE XIII.
The tribe herein named, by their representatives, parties to this treaty, agree to make the reservation herein described their permanent home, and they will not as a tribe make any permanent settlement elsewhere, reserving the right to hunt on the lands adjoining the said reservation formerly called theirs, subject to the modifications named in this treaty and the orders of the commander of the department in which said reservation may be for the time being; and it is further agreed and understood by the parties to this treaty, that if any Navajo Indian or Indians shall leave the reservation herein described to settle elsewhere, he or they shall forfeit all the rights, privileges, and annuities conferred by the terms of this treaty; and it is further agreed by the parties to this treaty, that they will do all they can to induce Indians now away from reservations set apart for the exclusive use and occupation of the Indians, leading a nomadic life, or engaged in war against the people of the United States, to abandon such a life and settle permanently in one of the territorial reservations set apart for the exclusive use and occupation of the Indians.

In testimony of all which the said parties have hereunto, on this the first day ofJune, eighteen hundred and sixty-eight, at Fort Sumner, in the Territory of New Mexico, set their hands and seals.

W. T. SHERMAN
Lt. Gen'l, Indian Peace Commissioner.

S. F. TAPPAN, Indian Peace Commissioner.

BARBONCITO, Chief. his x mark.
ARMIJO. his x mark.
DELGADO.
MANUELITO. his x mark.
LARGO. his x mark.
HERRERO. his x mark.
CHIQUETO. his x mark.
MUERTO DE HOMBRE. his x mark.
HOMBRO. his x mark.
NARBONO. his x mark.
NARBONO SEGUNDO. his x mark.
GANADO MUCHO. his x mark.
COUNCIL.
RIQUO. his x mark.
JUAN MARTIN. his x mark.
SERGINTO. his x mark.
GRANDE. his x mark.
INOETENITO. his x mark.
MUCHACHOS MUCHO. his x mark.
CHIQUETO SEGUNDO. his x mark.
CABELLO AMARILLO. his x mark.
FRANCISCO. his x mark.
TORIVIO. his x mark.
DESDENDADO. his x mark.
JUAN. his x mark.
GUERO. his x mark.
GUGADORE. his x mark.
CABASON. his x mark.
BARBON SEGUNDO. his x mark.
CABARES COLORADOS. his x mark.
Attest:
Geo. W. G. Getty, Col. 37th Inf'y, Bt. Maj. Gen't U. S. A.
B. S. Roberts, Bt. Brg. Gen't U. S. A., Lt. Col. 3rd Cav'y.
J. Cooper Mckee, Bt. Lt. Col. Surgeon U. S. A.
Theo. H. Dodd, U. S. Indian Ag't for Navajos.
Chas. McClure, Bt. Maj. and C. S. U. S. A.
James F. Weeds, Bt. Maj. and Asst. Surg. U. S. A.
J. C. Sutherland, Interpreter.
William Vaux, Chaplain U. S. A.

And whereas, the said treaty having been submitted to the Senate of the United States for its constitutional action thereon, the Senate did, on the twenty-fifth day of July, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-eight, advise and consent to the ratification of the same, by a resolution in the words and figures following, to wit:

In Executive Session, Senate of the United States,
July 25, 1868

Resolved, (two-thirds of the senators present concurring,) That the Senate advise and consent to the ratification of the treaty between the United States and the Navajo Indians, concluded at Fort Sumner, New Mexico, on the first day of June, 1868.


Attest:
GEO. C. GORHAM,
Secretary,
By W. J. McDONALD,
Chief Clerk.


Now, therefore, be it known that 1, Andrew Johnson, President of the United States of America, do, in pursuance of the advice and consent of the Senate, as expressed in its resolution of the twenty-fifth of July, one thousand eight hundred and sixty-eight, accept, ratify, and confirm the said treaty


In testimony whereof, I have hereto signed my name, and caused the seal of the United States to be affixed.


one at the City of Washington, this twelfth day of August, in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-eight, and of the Independence of the
United States of America the ninety-third.


By the President:
W. Hunter,
Acting Secretary of State

SIGNING OF THE 1868 TREATY OF PEACE BETWEEN THE NAVAJO INDIAN TRIBE AND THE UNITED STATES
June 1, 1968, LYNDON B. JOHNSON, President of the United States of America

SOURCE: http://reta.nmsu.edu/modules/longwalk/lesson/document/treaty.htm

Wouldn't you know, just as I'm finalizing documentation it's THE END OF THE WORLD!!! EEEEK!!!!

by Leland P. Morrill
Adopted Native American Citizenship Affected by The REAL ID Act of 2005 on Friday, May 20, 2011 at 11:29pm
Just kidding! LMAO.

This week was rather tumultous. Even though I now have a plastic California Identification Card, I still did not have my Drivers License. Tuesday May 17, 2011 I went to the California DMV down by USC on Hope Street and waited in line. While in line, I read the entire Drivers License Manual. I had arrived around 12:30 p.m. thinking that would be enough time to get in to take the test, by 4:00 p.m. I was getting worried that the cut off time had passed. NOT SO! I made it by minutes, 4:25 p.m. I took my mugshot, forgot to pose like I'd been trained to for media events so my picture was less than what I wanted but still it's my mug.

Wouldn't you know, just as I was entering the testing area, my cellphone rings! My little brother Shaun. LOL. Well, he didn't know, but immediately I saw the NO CELLPHONES sign. After turning off my phone the DMV person yelled: "NO CELLPHONES!!! TURN OFF YOUR CELL PHONE!" I immediately stated I didn't even know it was on, which I really didn't. I then took the multiple "guess" test quickly and was done in 10 minutes. Hmmmm yup, so I rechecked my answers thinking it couldn't be that easy and I sure didn't want to fail so I rechecked one more time, I handed in my test and then had to prove I had a previous drivers license. I pulled out that worthless paper copy the Utah DMV Fairpark asked for & immediatlely the DMV Tester said "I can't accept that"

My old Utah paper Temporary Drivers License. It's worthless to the California DMV and as an ID "card" No one accepts it!

Well, I kind of knew it and started to plead my case. He listened, thought about it and said, well you passed but I can't accept that. Talk to a supervisor downstairs at window 21.
Window 21 wasn't labeled so I immediately asked as it was now about 5:00 p.m., closing time. I got a supervisor around 5:15 p.m. Same story, but she said Utah DMV could send a clearance letter. So I immediately called Nanette Rolfe's cellphone number. Nanette is the Utah Department of Public Safety Drivers License Division Director and left a message. I did the same on her work phone number and also called Jill Laws' work phone number and left a message. Jill is the Deputy Director of the Utah Drivers License Division.

I was really upset because here I'd paid the fee, passed the test and one more hurdle. Then my little brother texted me and I sent back a "bitchy" text: "What do you want?" Actually it was uncalled for but I hadn't blown off steam yet and he was an immediate recipient. Funny how sometimes you lash back at those who you love the most. Sorry Shaun, if you reading this. Anyway, he called me on it in his colorful language via text & made me laugh but I was still mad.

I finally talked to him, Still upset and he offered to help. That's what I found so amazing. Sometimes people ask to help you. I knew I needed to scan my CIB, Certificate of Indian Blood, and Brith Affidavit and sent those off in an email as a PDF to Nanette and Jill so off I went to FedEx/Kinkos. Guess who was working? Jesus...of course! He actually helped me quite a bit because the scanner jammed up, my USB flash drive wasn't recognized by their computer, so we sent it to my email. I also sent it to Shaun and my best friend Troy just in case. I've learned to sometimes overcompensate and send files to multiple people and myself for an electronic timestamp.

I actually didn't know Jills email address but knew Nanettes. So, I kind of guessed it. Good thing because Jill called me as I was working out a housing issue the next morning, Wednesday May 18, 2011. Jill said she faxed the California DMV the clearance letter and also sent me a PDF just in case. She knows my style. Very cool.

Utah DMV Clearance Letter...Thanks Jill for sending it so quickly!!

After a meeting with housing off to the DMV I went. Upon arrival, they had my paperwork ready. Whatever it was Jill sent, it got their attention. THANKS JILL! I now have an Interim Drivers License issued by California DMV, now awaiting the plastic card.

YAY. My California Interim Drivers License.

I've also now applied for two jobs with the Torres Martinez Desert Cahilla Indian Tribe. Both position required a California Drivers License, I'm hoping to get one of them. Cynthia at the Wilshire office here in Los Angeles gave me an application and an internal job posting list of positions she thought I'd be qualified for once the drivers license was issued. So cross your fingers and toes people! I need a job just like everyone else!

I do have to thank Shaun, my little brother for asking to help and being a sounding board about my frustrations. My friend Troy has also heard my frustrations and concerns. Troy has been through the entire twenty two years of my research. To him, for being a sounding board, suggesting things I'd never think of, and just plain being a good friend, which says alot about his good character, patience, and level of friendship. Thanks Troy!

Also, later, Shaun called me to tell me there is a girl here in North Hollywood, a daughter of a client, who is Cherokee and going through the same Real ID Act of 2005 documentation nightmare I am now exiting. Shaun asked me if I'd help her. OF COURSE!
So, if your reading this, call me! Oh, and your mother Robin has my phone number. Just sayin. I'm here, and have plenty of fresh knowledge and willing to help.

Thank you all for reading my entry/blog. This has been a great diary and I've had to refer to it during telephone calls to tell the Navajo Nation Vital Statistics office, The National Archives, Navajo Relatives, The Arizona Vital Statistics Office of my progress. Blogging and also creating an online pedigree chart accessable by any computer has literally saved many a conversation and aided in defending my cause and helping me move forward. So, if you are in this process, please write down everything because, you can always refer back to it!

Also, please LIKE my Facebook Page. READ my notes. Remember, this blog contains just my notes and has a PayPal feature where you can donate :)
This process is greater than just me and others will need help. Perhaps this can be a way to assist others and once I get myself back onto my financial feet will be able to set up a nonprofit to help others.

You may notice, I also will have EBAY items up for sale on my Facebook Page. Feel free to purchase those items as well.

Above all, This is now to help others. If you have any questions, comments, suggestions, ideas for me to write about pertaining to The Real ID Act of 2005, Certificate of Indian Blood, Native Affidavit of Birth...PLEASE, suggest! I welcome it!

Peace out!

Birth Certificates are a ROYAL PAIN...even to our Commander in Chief...just sayin.

by Leland P. Morrill Adopted Native American Citizenship Affected by The REAL ID Act of 2005 on Friday, April 29, 2011 at 8:05pm

Wow. What a media week. Obama and his controversial birth certificate problems and the marriage of Prince William to Kate Middleton. What struck me about  the Obama/Trump fiasco in the news was how he was continually pressed with supplying an original copy of his State of Hawaii Birth Certificate

( see link for more info: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/04/27/president-obamas-long-form-birth-certificate )

This struck me because of THE REAL ID  ACT of 2005 at some point all people residing in the United States will have to prove legal status. It's amazing he thought of if as being such a distraction. He's now responded twice, once in 2008 with a non-legal copy of his "Certificate of Live Birth" and then again this past Wednesday April 29, 2011.  

You can view a better copy of President Obama's Birth Certificate, Courtesy of:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/2011/04/27/president-obamas-long-form-birth-certificate

The question of racism arose from several fronts, from the media, from talk shows such as "The View" and then will be showcased on Monday May 2, 2011 on "Oprah" when he and First Lady Michelle Obama are the invited guests. I found racism to be alive in my own case at the Utah Department of Motor Vehicles Fairpark Office in Salt Lake with my confrontation with "JOYCE" the supervisor, covered in my NOTE/ENTRY: "UTAH DMV Evil or Good? You tell me...I'm Illegal...or not. I'm NAVAJO!"  I too realise racism does exist and must be constantly aware of it.  I was so upset with Joyce, I immediately called my friend Jim who with the aide of Utah Senator Gene Davis, and now former Utah State Division of Indian Affairs Director Forrest Cuch called Nannette Rolfe, Director, Utah Department of Public Safety Drivers License and discussed the insulting incident regarding my Utah Drivers License as a result of The Real ID ACT of 2005 authored by Wisconsin Senator James Sensenbrenner.  Through Nannette Rolfes office, Jill Laws had me fax my documentation, set up a new appointment for the following Thursday and I proceeded to obtain a six month temporary paper State of Utah issued Drivers License (not a plastic card).   

What struck me was how a supervisor would treat people so horribly and make them feel lower than dirt. On my second visit, Thursday, I made it known to all the workers who the offending supervisor was by pointing "Supervisor Joyce" out and stating: "The lady wearing the red shirt with the short hair is the person I talked to on Tuesday." They immediately took her aside and separated her from the rest of the employees.  What I hope happened is she was given a choice of sensitivity training. The Salt Lake City Fairpark DMV office caters to a minority population, mainly the Rose Park community, largely Hispanic.  The reason I made it my mission to take it to a higher level was because I was floored a supervisor could treat people so poorly, mostly those who would be indigent, minority, hispanic, and who would be used to this type of treatment. What a dis-service from a public servant, someone hired by the State of Utah to help, assist, provide superior customer service. The situation needed to be exposed. As you know by my Note/Entry "UTAH DMV Evil or Good? You tell me...I'm Illegal...or not. I'm NAVAJO!"  I did exactly that. I felt vindicated and hope that the Utah DMV is monitoring and will maintain a no-tolerance on discrimination to their minority population from that moment forward.

Getting back to Obama and his birth certificate. If this President had been of Anglo-Saxon, German, Swedish or any other "white-race", it is doubtful his legal presence would be questioned. What I want to interject here is, me being a minority, there have been instances in my life, including the Utah DMV incident, where being brown (Navajo) has not worked on my behalf. What I want to convey to you, is you have to look out for number one...the ME factor.  

No one else will. Some will pave the path, but you must make sure to tread it, or create one that others will follow.  It's not easy being the person who makes change. Change is scary. Change is unsure. Change happens whether you are the cause or not. Time, circumstance, everything changes. 

In my case, I was not willing to accept the one month extention Supervisor Joyce gave me as an ultimatum when I knew the law of The Real ID Act of 2005 and what my rights were. I had the upper hand through knowledge, wisdom and fortunately a good friend who had political connections to assist me in my time of need. Again it took SIX people, including myself, to schedule the second appointment. Sometime you have to realize within yourself that you must reach out to others who can help. It's amazing who stepped to the plate. I will forever be indebted to my friend Jim for the role he played in this incident. 

Another point I want to make: I don't care what color you are, I am, or who anyone is.  Sure physical beauty will create a first glance, but in the end what will trump anything are intellect, personality, and the beauty of the soul.

Talking about beauty, did you get to watch the Royal Wedding this morning?!? I accidentally fell asleep but watched it in a rebroadcast. Did you notice how similar Prince William looked like his mother Princess Diana?

Prince William, screen shot; Princess Diana, Peter Skingley/AP/pool

As an adopted child, a constant is not looking like, acting like, having the attributes of fellow adopted siblings and parents. Beside the fact that I needed to obtain a birth certificate, once I found my biological family in Ganado, Arizona back in 1985, there has always been that comforting feeling of not being alone.  Knowing there were others who had the same bloodline, features, quirky mannerism I possess. A completeness, the last piece of the puzzle. The same occurred when my cousin Matt came to visit Los Angeles last month

My cousin Matt,
Uncle Bob's son.

Even though he lives on the other side of the United States, when he was in my presense, there was a closeness, a bonding that felt, a relaxation from being guarded, a trustworthy feeling that people who are not adopted, those who live with their "natural" biological family unit take for granted. That is what I think adoptees constantly search for until they finally meet their natural relatives. Unfortunately for me, I will not be able to meet my brother Christopher, my mother Linda, but perhaps my biological father might be alive??? I have many other natural relatives who are alive. At some point I will meet them and be able to see myself in them. That will be the next phase I will concentrate on doing. 

That said, I have to make a living so, my goals are changing toward my professional life a bit more during this depression. YES, it is a Depression we live in. I was reminded of that by a lady over at the California Employment Development Department (EDD) downtown just yesterday. I  referred to the current state of our economy as a "recession" and she immediately said "THIS is not a Recession, THIS is a DEPRESSION". Yup.  Now back to the grindstone.

By the way, I am currently selling some items on Ebay, feel free to notice those postings on my Facebook Page wall:

"Adopted Native American Citizenship Affected by The REAL ID Act of 2005" 

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Los-Angeles-CA/Adopted-Native-American-Citizenship-Affected-by-The-REAL-ID-Act-of-2005/165349256848200

You may press the "DONATE" Button on my Blog: 

Adopted Native Americans/Real ID ACT

http://amiauscitizennavajo.blogspot.com/

AND....<lol> yup another way, I make my living is by selling window coverings, so feel free to order online at:

http://www.mynewblinds.com/  My New Blinds.  Use the coupon code "savela" for 5% off your purchase of $100 or more.

Please LIKE my page and read my NOTES/Entries! 

Enjoy life and those you choose to surround yourself with.

Thank you for reading.

SUCCESS! TGIF, Gratitude Friday message & the reason I played hooky today...LMAO!

by Leland P. Morrill Adopted Native American Citizenship Affected by The REAL ID Act of 2005 on Friday, April 15, 2011 at 11:20pm

Good morning peeps. Sorry the Friday posting is late, it was in the 80's here in LA...I played hooky.

here's a pic of me playing hookey:

Yup, I played hooky.
Pacific Palisades California...it was 80+ degrees & Friday.

YUP-sleeping away on tha beach.

GREAT NEWS WWWpeeps: I received my Navajo Nation Affidavit of Birth and Certificate of Navajo Indian Blood in Thursday's noon mail!  YAY!

Success...well on the Navajo Nation Side,
Now to work on the US Side with the State of Arizona.

Wow. Now what will I do with the time I dedicated to obtaining these? 22 years of research, 40 years after my adopted mother sent in an application for my birth certificate, 40 years after my adoption without any documentation except the NN Final Judgement of Adoption linking me to the Navajo Nation. 

First off, GRATEFUL FRIDAY:

I can-not claim full credit by myself, many people helped, in no specific order...kinda random order?!?

• Troy, my best friend of 26 years who's been my sounding board, heard all my frustrations, triumphs, shared 3am 4am 5am brainstorming sessions
• Jim, who in my frustration introduced me to "powerful" politicians who were able to work from the "top" down and assist, when my path had been blocked by Utah DMV employees.
• Uncle Bob and Aunt Ruth, my biological uncle & his wife who called the NN Vital Statistics, I'm sure numerous times (must be a "KIRK" trait), submitted a notorized statement, verbally told me where to look (ie...St Michaels, remember?) and <blush> walked through a cemetary looking for Linda Carolyn Kirk, my biological mothers grave, without success but still kept suggesting "next" ideas.
• "mom"/cousin Cyndy Taylor, who suggested names & numbers of NN officials from the "top" down and also helped me follow up and continuously checked up on my progress.
• My adopted mother Gwena, who during my frustration provided an emailed statement of events leading up to my adoption and when pressed for more info, provided the Albuquerque connection of St Anthony's Orphanage, and also copies of hers &my adopted dads birth certificates to prove to NN Vital Statistics & Utah DMV offices.
• Sarah, who suggested I start a blog/Facebook page to publicly share & create an online buzz about my story.
• Rick, for helping me set up my Facebook page...it was my first so, I had no idea how to do certain things & his talents helped greatly in what you see and are able to do on this page.
• Scott at the Arizona Vital Statistics for the years of conversations/emails sharing my frustrations over lack of info and attempting to help in "unchartered territory"
• The Staff at Navajo Nation Vital Statistics: Alisia, Leonard, Trudy, Velma, Florinda, and RuthAnn for their patience with me...I had a deadline of July 13, 2011 thanks to THE REAL ID ACT of 2005
• Public Officials: Senator Gene Davis, Forrest Cuch-former Director of Indian Affairs, Jill Laws-Utah DMV-Drivers License Division,  Chai Feldblum-Commissioner, U.S. EEOC.
• Gwen Granados of the Perris California US National Archives

THERE ARE SO MANY MORE!!!!

To my "official family" of friends both from Utah and California who gave me the strength when I faltered and felt like quiting the gazilion times I got back on my stubborn mule'd path & kept going. Especially after hearing all my frustrations, sometimes that was all they heard...yikes, I am grateful because I am almost there!!!

I have to now submit my info to the State of Arizona Vital Statistics, take the California DMV drivers test, finish changing my info with the Social Security Administration, etc.

Yea...still just the few details to tie up.

WWWpeeps...thanks for reading my story. PLEASE SHARE my story with those who need that extra push, that encouragement, that idea, that extra something they can't think of but you can help with.

NOW, it's about others, mine is a success story, I want others to enjoy the elation of success. Knowing they belong.

I am starting at 8am Saturday April 16, 2011 volunteering at a Citizenship Worshop in East LA!

***Please read my previous notes, LIKE my page, and SHARE!!!***

Gratitude Friday...oh and Why is the Navajo Nation Vital Statistics Window Rock office closed March 28-30,2011?? hmmm.

by Leland P. Morrill Adopted Native American Citizenship Affected by The REAL ID Act of 2005 on Saturday, March 26, 2011 at 12:10am

Good evening WWWpeeps,

Leland here, realizing Gratitude Friday is late today....in some parts of the U.S. it's now Saturday so excuse my lateness. There is a particular lady in Perris California who has been a great source of information to me so to her this Friday I am grateful. She also cautioned me to be patient and let the process happen rather than rushing it.

I do tend to do that on occasion because after 22 years of continuous research and with the advances within the last two years and two months being so quick I'm letting my own rush become a visible cog an not letting the process run it's "normal" or destined course.

To her, THANK YOU! I called, emailed & probably bothered her way too much today so yes I understand her verbalizing what needed to be said. 

I remind you I am affected by The Real ID Act of 2005 because I now hold a second six month temporary "paper" State issued Drivers License as required by that Act expiring July 13, 2011. No other will be issued after that date and I will become an ILLEGAL ALIEN if the Navajo Nation doesn't provide my needed documentation which should have been done in 1971 when I was adopted out of their tribe in Chinle Arizona....United States of America.

 Today I was in a nutrition class in Koreatown (Los Angeles). While there my biological Uncle Bob called me & I stepped out for a minute & talked to him. He finally was able to talk to Leonard Benally, Manager of the Census at the Navajo Nation Vital Statistics to verify verbally of my existence & relation. A great step forward. Another gratitude moment there. Leonard told Uncle Bob to write down his recollection of my mother Linda Kirk & me and to submit that in writing. Another step forward...YAY!

YAY my confirmation email!

Returning home, I openned up my email and a "USPS Shipment Info for 7010 3090 0000 5814 6774" email was staring at me.  I posted this on the Facebook Page. My Certified Mail gold 8.5"x11" package arrived at the Window Rock Post Office at 10:19am (today) Friday March 25, 2011. YAY. I immediately called Leonard Benally and told him. Surprise surprise!! He sent someone immediately to the post office to pick up the package. At 2:46pm another email arrived confirming delivery of my package to someone who picked it up. I waited another half hour, called Leonard back & we went over the details.  

Now, I will say I am headstrong so this may not be the best approach for others to follow, or it might. Please use your judgement and "read" the person on the on the other end of your conversation well so they understand your immediate need at this phase because you will want things done "yesterday" or as in my case 40 years ago, when my adopted mother originally applied for a birth certificate with the Navajo Nation & me now knowing Alisia and Leonard both have reviewed that application and still nothing has been done.

I was a little taken back when Leonard Benally told me to have my adopted mother submit her recollection of my adoption and what she knew. I considered it a stall tactic & was slightly put off (mildly offended) by such a request. Well, if you've kept up with my story and read my previous notes you know my adopted mother did indeed supply that to me in hopes it would help me at some point in this process. Please see the Note or Blog entry: 

"Am I ILLEGAL?!? Navajo, pre-adoption life version from my MOM (adopted)."

So, I asked Leonard Benally, Manager of the Census for the Navajo Vital Statistics point blank for his direct email address...a long uncomfortable pause & then he spoke & gave it to me, I spelled it out, verifying it to the letter. I went back through my emails & forwarded the same email within 5-10 minutes of our conversation. 

Between...

1. My adopted mother's recollection, 
2. My biological Uncle Bob's verbal verification of my existence
3. His relationship to Linda Carolyn Kirk (my biological mother) 
4. His inpending written submitted recollection of my bio-mom & I;  
5. My research notes & also 7 pages of documentation attached to my Navajo Nation Application for Membership and Navajo Nation Application for Services,  

...I am hopeful an "Affidavit of Birth", New Enrollement into the Navajo Nation, and a Certificate of Navajo Blood will arrive at some point. Remember, I only have until July 13, 2011 until my temporary "paper" United State issued Drivers License expires and due to the limitations spelled out in The REAL ID ACT of 2005 authored by Jim (James) Sensenbrenner of Wisconsin, that will be the date I become an ILLEGAL ALIEN. Thanks JIM! You're a pal...well not really.

So, I cannot afford, for my own sake, to allow any other person who is informed of my situation; who can be a part of my process; to sit on their "laurels" and take their sweet time. It took 40 year after I was adopted in 1971, with an application for birth certificate submitted by my adopted mother, 22 years of my own research, this blog/facebook page, notifying others and publicising my own story to keep the process visble. NOPE, I will not allow people to sit and do nothing. Nor should you. 

Something that I found out from Leonard Benally, the Navajo Nation Window Rock Vital Statistics Office will be closed MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY (March 28-30, 2011)...ummmm why? No reason given. Also, I was cautioned I am still considered an outsider, even though:

1. The Navajo Nation through a Final Adoption Decree dated July 15,1971 in The Trial Court of the Navajo Tribe, Judicial District of CHINLE ARIZONA adopted me out, without a birth certificate, census number, certificate of indian blood, 
2. Knowingly having documentation I had been a patient at the  the Chinle Arizona Health Clinic, PHS Indian Hospital Keams Canyon Arizona, Gallup Indian Medical Center 
3. Also had been assigned a Social Services "person" Ms. McCray through the Bureau of Indian Affairs in CHINLE ARIZONA. 

Ok...so caution & I shall wait until Thursday to call back Leonard Benally. 

As for the reason the office is closed THREE DAYS????? I will find that out as well and will inquire. I SINCERELY HOPE IT IS NOT BECAUSE OF " The Third Annual Language Preservation Summit! The Summit will be held March 28-30, 2011 at the beautiful Radisson Fort McDowell Resort in Scotsdale, AZ!"  http://falmouthinstitute.com/language/2010/10/falmouths-language-preservation-summit-exciting-news/ . 

If it is then it is.  Oh well. The Window Rock Navajo Nation Vital Statistics office will still be closed those three days.

Ok so I ranted a bit.

Today being Grateful Friday: I am grateful to my Perris California friend, my biological Uncle Bob for calling Leonard Benally & I hope to be grateful next Friday for Leonard Benally's role for the next step of retaining my United States Citizenship and furthering the Navajo Nation documentation started by my adopted mother in 1971.

Please read my previous notes, comment, make suggestions, oh and LIKE my page. Thanks again wonderful readers. Yes this last entry was intense but, if it can help anyone else with the process & understand the stresses, time involvement, expenditures and help them prepare and carve out a path, this page/blog was not in vain.