BILL ANALYSIS

 

 

Senate Research Center	S.C.R. 61
	By: West
	Committee To Be Determined | Never Referred
	6/21/2019
	Enrolled

 

 

 

AUTHOR'S / SPONSOR'S STATEMENT OF INTENT

 

The Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas is the present-day incarnation of a proud people who have lived in Texas and northern Mexico for more than 300 years.

 

The Lipan Apaches have entered into treaties, alliances, and pledges of friendship with the governments of Spain, Mexico, the German Confederation, and the United States. President Sam Houston and the Republic of Texas formally acknowledged a friendship with the Lipan Apaches through the Treaty of Live Oak Point in 1838.

 

Today, the Lipan Apache Tribe is represented by a tribal government with a constitution and bylaws, and the tribe is a voting member of the National Congress of American Indians. The eagle remains sacred to the tribe, and the United States Department of the Interior has acknowledged the religious and legal rights of more than 200 tribal members to use eagle feathers in their ceremonial practices.

 

Lipan Apaches have faithfully served in the armed forces of the United States during World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War, and the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as in other deployments. Moreover, tribe member Frank Leota of San Antonio has risen to the prestigious post of command sergeant major for the United States Army Pacific Command. In addition, members of the Lipan Apache Tribe have served as police officers, ministers, nurses, and schoolteachers, as well as in many other important occupations.

 

Blessed with a rich heritage, the Lipan Apaches have maintained a strong sense of identity and community, and they continue to make a valuable contribution to the culture of the Lone Star State.

 

RESOLVED

 

That the 86th Legislature of the State of Texas recognize the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas and commend it on its many valuable contributions to this state.

 

That an official copy of this resolution be prepared for the tribe as an expression of high regard by the Texas House of Representatives and Senate.