A longtime University of Oregon professor has been removed from the Native American and Indigenous Studies program after a watchdog group challenged his claimed Native ancestry. For years, Brian Klopotek identified as Choctaw, earning awards and opportunities reserved for Native Americans. Now, a detailed genealogy review alleges he has only European roots, sparking heated debate about identity, heritage, and fairness in academia. Klopotek maintains his identity is recognized by his Louisiana community and says the official records don’t tell the whole story. This controversy is raising tough questions about who gets to define Indigenous identity and how institutions should respond. #Education #College #UOregon