The Lipan Apache Tribe Community Page
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FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions

 

1. I believe my ancestor was Lipan Apache. How do I find out more?

UPDATE NOTE from the GC: Enrollment is currently closed for new families. Only relatives of members may apply.

You can submit an application for enrollment to the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas. Part of that application includes a genealogy. If you have documents that say your ancestor was Lipan Apache, please include copies of the documents. If you have a family oral history, please include that information. Our Clerk of the Nation will check your genealogy to see if your family ties into any of the families who are currently enrolled. Our Tribal Historian will confirm any documentary evidence you provide. Questions? Contact: clerk@lipanapache.org.


 

2. How do I enroll in the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas?

UPDATE NOTE from the GC: Enrollment is currently closed for new families. Only relatives of members may apply.

The Tribe accepts enrollments only on a periodic basis. When the Tribe opens enrollment, the forms are available to download from the website. Just scroll down to the bottom of the Home page. There is no fee to apply for enrollment. Our Tribal enrollment is based on descendancy, not blood quantum, so if you are directly related to someone who is already enrolled with our Tribe, you are also eligible for enrollment. However, you will still need to submit an application and we can only process your application during an Open Enrollment period.


 

3. How do I get a Tribal ID?

You must be an enrolled member of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas in order to receive a Tribal ID. When you receive your Enrollment Certificate, you will also receive a Tribal ID form. Just complete the form and return it along with a passport photo and a processing fee. Questions about Tribal IDs? Contact: robtsoto49@lipanapache.org.


 

4. What benefits am I eligible for as an enrolled member of the Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas?

The Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas is a State-Recognized tribe which is working toward the goal of Federal Acknowledgment. As a Tribal member, your most important benefit is the opportunity to preserve and share information about your heritage, culture and traditions. Although the State of Texas does not currently provide benefits to members of its recognized tribes, there are still some benefits you may be eligible for:

(a) Scholarships. There are scholarship opportunities available to members of State-recognized tribes. Information about this can be found on the website on the Home page and under the Education tab or go directly to www.lipanapache.org/Education/Ed.html. Check the website often, since it is updated as information on new scholarship opportunities becomes available. Visit the linked websites of organizations that are providing the scholarships. These organizations provide contact information if you have specific questions about the scholarships.
(b) Possible health benefits for Tribal members who are not Texas residents. In some states, the Indian Health Service will provide low cost or free health services to members of State-recognized tribes but this varies from state to state, so you will need to check with your local Indian Health Service office.


 

5. As an enrolled member, how can I help the Tribe?

Stay informed. Check the website often. Donations are needed in order to continue our work for you. You can donate safely online with your PayPal account or credit card at www.lipanapache.org/Donate_Now/Donate_Now.html. If you have questions, comments or suggestions, contact a Council member. Offer to volunteer your skills. Represent your Tribe proudly to the outside world.


 

6. How can I learn more about Lipan Apache culture and language?

For basic information about Lipan culture, click the Museum tab on the Home page. For more indept questions on our Tribe's history, contact: historian@lipanapache.org. For questions and information about Lipan language, contact: linguist@lipanapache.org or homeland@lipanapache.org.


 

7. Where is the Tribal Museum and Culture Center?

The Tribal Museum and Culture Center is located in Corpus Christi, Texas at the Sunset Mall on Airline Dr. Since the Museum is staffed by volunteers, it is recommended that you contact the Curator prior to your visit. Contact: curator@lipanapache.org.

Currently, Vice-Chairman Soto is also working on the "NEW" Native Cultural Center in McAllen, TX. The Native Cultural Center will not only serve as the Tribe's central office but will also have displays. Donations and volunteers are needed for McAllen's Native Cultural Center. For questions and information on the "new" Native Cultural Center, contact the Vice-Chairman Soto at robtsoto49@lipanapache.org





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Lipan Apache Tribe of Texas
P.O. Box 5218
McAllen, Texas 78502
contact@lipanapache.org