The United Houma Nation has sought federal recognition for decades. The tribe has been recognized by state and foreign governments as an Indian tribe. In fact, Houma children were forced to attend a segregated Indian school until the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
Located along Louisiana's Gulf Coast, the Houma Indian culture and community depend on the wetlands. The BP spill has devastated the Houma. However, BP denied the Houma's claim because they are not federally recognized.
The National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) recommends the United Houma Nation be recognized to preserve the Houma’s culture. An NAACP report stated the oil industry lobby is blocking their request because they want access to lands that would be protected under the federal designation.