Federal Partnership Brings Hope in Identifying Caddo Individuals who May Have Inherited Trust Lands

Caddo Nation Secures Department of Interior Assistance to Identify 270 Tribal Members

The Caddo Nation has achieved a significant milestone in serving its enrolled members, securing a commitment from the Department of Interior to assist in identifying 270 Caddo individuals who may be entitled to inherited trust lands.

This breakthrough comes as a result of Caddo Leadership’s strategic relationship-building efforts with federal officials in Washington, D.C. The commitment was made following a recent visit by Assistant Secretary Scott Davis from the Department of Interior and Gabe Morgan, Regional Director of the Southern Plains Regional Office.

Guests stand in front of Caddo Nation Childcare Facility as part of their tour with Vice-Chairman Kelly Factor and Chairman Gonzalez.

Building Bridges, Delivering Results

During their visit to the Caddo Nation, federal officials toured various tribal projects and engaged in discussions about concerns and issues that impact enrolled members.

"This partnership demonstrates the real-world impact of maintaining strong relationships with federal officials," said Vice-Chairman Kelly Factor. "Chairman's work in D.C. directly benefits our people at home."

Understanding Trust Land Inheritance

Trust land represents property held by the United States in trust for individual Indians or tribes. When a family member with trust land passes away, the legal process of probate must be initiated to transfer the land to heirs. However, many families face challenges navigating this complex process.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs' Anadarko Agency currently handles probate cases requiring family information or documentation. The new partnership will specifically focus on helping Caddo families understand their rights and navigate the probate process.

A Community-Centered Approach

“Many Caddo families have been seeking information about inherited properties, and we hope that this federal partnership provides a pathway to resolution” said Chairman Gonzalez.

Looking Forward

The Caddo Nation will be working closely with the Department of Interior to move forward in in efforts to identify 270 Caddo individuals. More details about how eligible individuals can participate will be announced in the coming weeks.

 For questions about trust land inheritance, families can contact the Anadarko Agency Probate Services at 405-247-8560 or email ANADAKO_AGENCY_PROBATE_OFFICE@BIA.GOV.

This partnership represents another example of how effective federal relationship-building translates into tangible benefits for tribal members, ensuring that the work done in Washington, D.C., directly serves the community at home.