Drummer Peter Bigstone plays during a gathering of the Little Shell Chippewa tribe in Great Falls, Mont., on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2007. Bigstone is a member of the Assiniboine tribe. (AP Photo/Robin Loznak)
The Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians is receiving federal recognition.
According to U.S. Senator Jon Tester, the tribe is based out of Great Falls, Montana and has more than 5,400 members across the state.
Montana recognized the tribe in 2000 but they’ve been seeking federal recognition since the 1930s.
With federal recognition, the U.S. government will buy and set aside more than 80 hectares for a reservation the tribe will manage.
Tribe members will decide whether or not to live on the reservation.
They also have access to certain health benefits and other social services.