This week, the Upper Mattaponi Tribe marked a historic first for Virginia, becoming the first of the state’s seven federally recognized tribes to form a justice system.

It became the first of the state’s seven federally-recognized Tribes to form a justice system, as Tribes in Virginia are in various phases of adopting their constitutions and forming their branches of government. Melissa Holds the Enemy, an Apsáalooké tribal citizen from Crow Agency Montana, is now the Upper Mattaoni’s Chief Justice. 

“When you have your own court system in place for a Tribe that system is going to keep the culture in mind, their own laws in mind, and the history,” she said.

Two other justices are Jack Trope and tribal citizen Brian Cameron. 

The Tribal Court will consider civil matters including divorce and child custody and hear criminal misdemeanor cases involving the Indigenous community that occur within tribal jurisdiction. 

“Our challenge will be to get the county and the King William County General District Court and all to recognize our court system,” said Chief Frank Adams.

The historic Sharon Indian School was packed for the official launch of the court. In a front row reserved seat was newly elected King William County Sheriff Donald Lumpkin. 

“I look forward to working with them in the near future and any way that the sheriff’s office and King William County can help them,” he said.

Nansemond Chief Keith Anderson was also at the ceremony. His Tribe will be swearing in its Tribal Court officials later this year.

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