Virginia legislators grant official recognition for Patawomeck Indians, tribe of Wayne Newton

Va. recognizes Patawomeck, tribe of Wayne Newton

RICHMOND, Va. — Virginia has granted official recognition for the Patawomeck Indians, the tribe of Virginia-born entertainer Wayne Newton.

The Senate passed a resolution on Tuesday to grant state tribal recognition to the Patawomeck (pah-tah-WOH-mic), or Potomac, tribe. The resolution already was passed by the House and takes effect immediately.

The state recognition gives the tribe a seat with the Virginia Council on Indians but does not grant sovereignty.

Newton visited the State Capitol earlier this month to ask for recognition for the tribe. He and Patawomeck Chief Robert Green said the move would validate their identity and help them protect sacred burial grounds.

Information from: The Free Lance-Star, www.fredericksburg.com/