Sovereign citizens likely use the phrase “aboriginal” for a few reasons, tied to their overall goals of portraying themselves as independent of government authority. Here’s a breakdown:
- False Claims of Indigenous Ancestry: Some sovereign citizens, particularly those who identify as Moorish sovereigns, may use “Aboriginal” to create a false narrative of indigenous ancestry in North America [1]. This claim has no historical basis and attempts to connect themselves to established Indigenous communities.
- Appeal to Historical Roots: The term “aboriginal” carries connotations of deep connection to a land. Sovereign citizens might use it to suggest they have a long, pre-existing presence in America, independent of the current government, which strengthens their fabricated narrative.
- Misappropriation of Identity: Indigenous Australians and specific groups in Canada legitimately use the term “Aboriginal.” Sovereign citizens appropriating this term can be seen as disrespectful and insensitive to these established groups [2].
- Vague Appeal to Sovereignty: They might use “Aboriginal” to imply a separate sovereign status independent of the United States, similar to how some Indigenous tribes have treaty rights. However, this is a mischaracterization and doesn’t grant them legal autonomy.
It’s important to understand:
- Sovereign citizens have no legitimate claim to aboriginal status in North America. Their ideology is separate from that of established Indigenous communities.
- Using “aboriginal” in this context disrespects Indigenous groups with a documented history and ongoing struggles for recognition.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Some sovereign citizen sects, particularly Moorish sovereigns, might use “aboriginal” alongside other terms to create a fictional heritage.
- Sovereign citizens often misuse legal terms and phrases. “Aboriginal” is likely another tool in their strategy to challenge authority and manipulate situations.
Citations:
- [1] Southern Poverty Law Center: Moorish Sovereign Citizens https://www.splcenter.org/fighting-hate/extremist-files/group/moorish-sovereign-citizens
- [2] Department of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada: Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Development https://www.canada.ca/en/indigenous-northern-affairs.html
