MEMBERSHIP — BECOMING A TRIBAL CITIZEN
Becoming a Tribal Citizen
Tribal citizenship is open to people who can document direct descent from Esselen ancestors. Below is what to expect, and how the process works.
Eligibility
Who is eligible.
Enrolled membership in the Esselen Tribe of Monterey County is open to individuals who can document direct lineal descent from one or more Esselen ancestors. Documentation may include mission records, federal census data, oral history affidavits, and family records.
Lineage and enrollment review is the responsibility of the Membership Committee. The Committee meets quarterly and works with applicants to assemble the strongest possible record — including, when needed, partnering with our archival research team.
The process
What to expect.
01
Reach out
Contact the Membership Committee. We’ll arrange a private conversation about your family history.
02
Gather records
Bring whatever you have — birth records, family bibles, photos, oral histories, names. We help fill in the rest.
03
Complete the application
Submit the membership application with your lineage worksheet and supporting documents.
04
Committee review
The Membership Committee reviews applications quarterly and notifies applicants within 90 days.
05
Welcome
New members are formally welcomed at the next General Membership meeting.
A note
If you suspect Esselen ancestry but aren't sure where to start —
Reach out anyway. Many of our enrolled members began with no more than a family whisper. The Committee and our archivist will help you trace it carefully.
Membership rights
- Vote in Tribal elections at age 18.
- Attend General Membership meetings.
- Access member-only programs and the youth scholarship fund.
- Receive a printed annual report.
- Be heard.