Archives West Finding Aid

The movement for restoration of Siletz tribal status began in the early 1970's as tribal members started to reorganize with the formation of a tribal council, which held its first meeting on September 30, 1973 in Siletz, Oregon. Joe Lane was elected as the Council's Chairman and Robert Rilatos became Vice Chairman. Senator Mark O. Hatfield and Congressman Les AuCoin proved strong supporters, introducing the bill to the Senate and House of Representatives. In December of 1976, the Statistical Profile of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians was developed, revealing the socio-economic need of the community, which would benefit from the federal support that would accompany the restoration of tribal status.

Siletz tribal members gained endorsements and support from regional intertribal organizations, the Yakama tribes, and Oregon citizens. Other influential supporters included legal aid lawyer, John Volkman, consulting attorney, Charles Wilkinson, and John Echohawk of the Native American Rights Fund. One source of opposition were commercial and recreational fishing organizations, including the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, which fought to defeat the Restoration Act and revoke all established fishing and hunting rights. From March 30-31, 1976, Senate subcommittee meetings were held in which council members provided testimony. On November 18, 1977, the Siletz Restoration Act was signed.

Over the next two years, Siletz tribal members worked to secure a reservation. While Georgia-Pacific denied a request for land, the Bureau of Land Management agreed to transfer 3,630 acres. On November 1, 1979, Siletz residents voted in favor of transferring Government Hill to the CTSI and the bill for the reservation plan was signed by President Jimmy Carter on September 3, 1980. A formal transfer ceremony was convened on September 20, 1980 on Government Hill.