Tribal Leaders Seek Consistent Recognition of Native IDs

January 30, 2026

Miguel Sallard

Managing Editor

Tribal Members Face Questions Over Identity

The Gila River Indian Community is raising concerns after a series of encounters between tribal members in Arizona reported being questioned or briefly detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement, incidents that Community leaders say reflect ongoing gaps in federal recognition of Tribal sovereignty despite being U.S. citizens.

For many residents, the issue is not abstract. It shows up in everyday moments: a young man detained on his way to work because his tribal ID was not accepted; a mother whose son was questioned at a mobile checkpoint; a veteran who recalls having to explain, yet again, that members of his community are U.S. citizens.

These stories circulate in the Tribal Nations, community centers, and conversations among neighbors. They are not told with fear, but with a mix of frustration and dignity. “We shouldn’t have to prove who we are on our own land,”  said Verlon M. Jose, Charmain of the Tohono O’odham Nation, echoing a sentiment shared by many.

Tribal officials say the core problem lies in inconsistent recognition of tribal identification by some federal agents. Although tribal IDs are legally valid, they are not always accepted in the field, leading to temporary detentions, questioning and confusion that disrupt daily life for Native citizens.

For Tribal communities in Arizona, the issue is not only procedural but deeply personal, touching on sovereignty, identity and the long history of Native presence in the region. Even as national debates over immigration continue, community members say their message remains simple: they want to be recognized and respected in their own homeland.

In response, tribal departments have organized know-your-rights workshops, legal support sessions and direct communication with federal agencies. The goal, officials say, is not confrontation but protection. “We want our people to be informed, safe and respected,” Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis said.

Despite the tension, the community’s response remains grounded. Families continue their routines, students go to school, and elders share stories that remind younger generations that their communities have endured greater challenges. But there is also a firm resolve: to insist that tribal sovereignty and Native citizenship be fully acknowledged.

What to do in the moment if you been stop by ICE:

Stay calm and do not run. Running can be used against you and may escalate the situation.

Ask for identification. You can ask the officer to show their badge and confirm which agency they represent.

You have the right to remain silent. You do not have to answer questions about your immigration status or where you were born. This is protected under the Fifth Amendment.

Do not show false documents. Never lie or present fake papers—this can cause serious legal consequences.

Ask if you are free to leave. If they say yes, you may walk away calmly.

Do not consent to a search. ICE needs probable cause or a warrant signed by a judge to search you, your car, or your home. Administrative ICE warrants (Form I‑200 or I‑205) do not give them permission to enter without consent.

You have the right to record the encounter as long as you do not interfere with officers.

If you are detained:

You have the right to speak to a lawyer. You do not have to sign anything without legal advice.

Do not sign deportation papers unless you fully understand them.

You can request to contact your family.

Your loved ones can search for you using ICE’s detainee locator.