Gadsden, AL – The Alabama Indian Affairs Commission says crafts sold by the Cherokees of Alabama should not be marketed as authentic American Indian items because the group is not a federal or state recognized tribe.
Cherokees of Alabama Chief Bobby ``Red Hawk'' Sterling said Tuesday the group will abide by the law but will sell items made by members of the group. He said the tribe is seeking federal recognition.
Tribe members said Saturday they would be selling ``authentic'' American Indian articles made by members in a gift shop that will open July 1. However, Eloise Josey, executive director of the AIAC, said that would violate the Indian Arts and Crafts Law.
Josey said she sent Sterling information about state tribal recognition and a copy of the Indian Arts and Crafts Law.
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