Recognizing George Forma

Floor Speech

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Mr. RUIZ. Madam Speaker, I rise to recognize George Forma, who has been a champion for tribes and tribal sovereignty for more than 50 years.

I am honored to represent eleven federally recognized tribes in my district. Each of the eleven tribes has had to fight for their rights and their sovereignty at every turn.

Standing with tribes in that fight and leading with them are the attorneys who represent them in the court of law.

George was instrumental in securing victory for tribes in the Cabazon case that set the groundwork for tribes to transform their on- reservation economies and conduct gaming operations, which has empowered tribes' self-sufficiency to provide adequate housing, schools, and other needed social services for tribal members.

He has successfully helped several tribes fight their unjust termination and achieve re-recognition as federally recognized tribes.

And over the decades, George has served my constituents, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, providing advice and counsel with the highest of integrity.

I want to thank George for his work and wish him a long, happy retirement filled with well-earned family time.

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