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American Indian Law Courses Headed to University of Richmond

RICHMOND, Va.

The University of Richmond School of Law will offer a course examining the laws that manage relationships between the government and American Indians, lessons Virginia tribal leaders hope to replicate at campuses across the state.

They point to limited regional opportunities to learn state and federal laws on matters such as tribal sovereignty, which could become increasingly important should Virginia’s native tribes achieve long-sought federal recognition.

The one-semester class will likely begin next fall and carry about three credits, said Rod Smolla, dean of the private university’s law school.

“We will gauge student interest and invite faculty members to determine if it’s something we would want to offer on a long-term basis,” Smolla said.

It’s a victory for Virginia American Indians, who have long traveled out West — where tribes are more dense and American Indian law more vital — to study the field, said Upper Mattaponi Chief Kenneth Adams. He and other tribal leaders negotiated with UR officials to offer the class. They’re also in negotiations with the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg.

Adams first grew interested after he attempted unsuccessfully to find a nearby American Indian law course.

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