Correspondence Regarding Changes in Cheyenne and Arapaho Indian Agency Leasing Policies, 1946, 1946-04-18

Elmer Thomas, a senator, is writing to the Commissioner of Indian Affairs, Win. A. Brophy, on behalf of his Indian constituents who are protesting the Cheyenne and Arapaho Indian Agency's new policy on preference rights of lessees. The new policy does not give the old lessees preference in bidding for the land, causing concern among those who have invested time, labor, and money in improving the land. Thomas is requesting Brophy to reconsider the new policy and reinstate the old ruling to avoid potential conflicts among neighbors and the Indian community. Carl D. Garriott, one of the constituents, also writes to Thomas expressing similar concerns and requesting his assistance in persuading the Indian Department to change the new ruling. He emphasizes the urgency of the situation as sealed bids on Indian lands must be filed by the end of April. Both Thomas and Garriott express gratitude for any help that can be provided.