McClellan Introduces Legislation to Grant Federal Recognition to the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04) introduced H.R. 10191, the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia Federal Recognition Act, to extend federal recognition to the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia. 

The Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia received State Tribal Recognition from the Virginia Council on Indians (VCI) in 2010. The Tribe’s governmental structure is democratic, based on an Iroquoian style of governance with a preeminent Tribal Council and ceremonial Chiefs. 

“The Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia has a rich culture and long history in what is now present-day Dinwiddie, Isle of Wight, Nottoway, Sussex, and Southampton counties,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “The Nottoway Indian Tribe received state recognition in 2010 but has yet to receive federal recognition. In honor of Native American Heritage Month, I’m introducing legislation to finally extend long-overdue federal recognition of their sovereignty. I look forward to continued collaboration with Chief Allston and the Nottway Indian Tribe of Virginia.” 

“In the early 1600s, as one of the strongest Tribes in Virginia, our Nottoway ancestors first interacted with the English colonists,” said Chief Lynette Allston of the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia. “Even with 400 years of adversity, the efforts to make us disappear failed. The Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia is still here. There is no way to correct the wrongs of the past that have been perpetrated on indigenous people. However, Federal acknowledgement opens the gates to future opportunities.” 

McClellan visited the Nottoway Indian Tribe of Virginia Community House and Interpretive Center in October 2024. This week, she spoke on the House floor in honor of her new legislation. 

Read H.R. 10191 bill text here.