By Black Star News
Photos: YouTube Screenshots
The Justice for Greenwood grassroots organization announced that, on Aug. 4, “the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Citizenship Board filed a Petition for Rehearing (Motion for Reconsideration)” regarding the legal status of Black Creek Freedman descendants.
But Justice for Greenwood said that “we do not believe the petition presents any facts or law that will alter the Supreme Court’s clear order: the Board acted contrary to law when it refused to apply Article II of the Treaty of 1866; the “by blood” restrictions are void; and citizenship must be issued to Rhonda Grayson, Jeffrey (Jeff) Kennedy, and similarly situated descendants. We will file a timely, detailed response addressing each claim, and we remain confident the Court’s ruling will stand.”
Damario Solomon-Simmons, Lead Counsel and Founder of Justice for Greenwood, addressed the latest legal twist on the ongoing dispute.
“As a Muscogee (Creek), I honor our Nation’s legal process and will timely respond to this petition on the merits—confident the Supreme Court’s ruling will stand,” said Solomon-Simmons.
Plaintiff Rhonda Grayson, a Black Creek said she would also continue to fight for her legal rights.
“The Court has already affirmed our rights under the Treaty of 1866. We respect the process and will answer this filing, but we will not be turned back. I’m ready to receive my citizenship card and to help begin real reconciliation and healing for our families and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation,” said Grayson.
Another plaintiff, Jeff Kennedy, called for an end to the legal fighting.
“We carried generations into that courtroom, and the Supreme Court recognized our citizenship. We’ll address this petition respectfully, but our focus is unity and on implementation. I’m calling on leaders across the Nation to help end the fighting and build a future together – guided by the Treaty and our shared dignity,” said Kennedy.
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