Schaghticoke Tribal Nation pushing for federal recognition after losing status

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The Schaghticoke Tribal Nation said Thursday that it is making a new push for federal recognition and for the right to offer commercial gaming. The Bureau of Indian Affairs granted the tribe federal status in 2004. It was withdrawn the following year after Connecticut officials objected to a third casino being built in the state. Connecticut's two other tribes, the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan tribes, did not support the Schaghticokes receiving federal recognition at the time. Both are recognized by the federal government and have federal reservations. Both have now reversed their stance. Schaghticoke leaders say the tribe applied to the federal government for reinstatement last year. "We are here today because of an historic injustice. There were a lot of wrongs that have been done, and we can't go back and change it. But moving forward, we deserve to stand proudly with federally-recognized tribes," says Richard Velky, Schaghticoke Tribal Nation chief. "