In Michigan, there are 12 federally-acknowledged Indian tribes that enjoy a special status under federal law and treaties. Federally acknowledged tribes are citizens of Native American descent and are sovereign governments that exercise direct jurisdiction over their members and territory.
Michigan tribal governments include:
- Bay Mills Indian Community
- Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians
- Hannahville Potawatomi Indian Community
- Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi
- Keweenaw Bay Indian Community
- Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians
- Little Traverse Bay Band of Odawa Indians
- Little River Band of Ottawa Indians
- Match-e-be-nash-she-wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians of Michigan
- Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians
- Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe
- Lac Vieux Desert Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians