Interior Board of Indian Appeals Affirms Shinnecock Nation’s Westwoods Land Determination

The Shinnecock Nation secured a significant legal victory on July 7, when the Interior Board of Indian Appeals (IBIA) dismissed appeals filed by both the Town of Southampton and the State of New York regarding the Nation’s land at Westwoods.

The IBIA ruled that it did not have jurisdiction to overturn the decision issued earlier this year by former Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, Bryan Newland. In January, Assistant Secretary Newland formally recognized the Nation’s land at Westwoods in the federal Trust Asset and Management System (TAAMS), solidifying its status under federal protection. According to federal policy, such decisions by the Assistant Secretary are final and not subject to administrative appeal—only eligible for judicial review in federal court.

The ruling marks another critical step in affirming the sovereignty and land rights of the Shinnecock Nation. The Nation’s leadership emphasized that land determinations are subjected to extensive review processes and coordination with government officials to ensure proper legal standing.

In a related matter, the Shinnecock Nation has also confirmed the return of its official seal, which had previously been displayed in the Town Hall boardroom without the Nation’s consent. After repeated requests, the seal was returned on July 14. The Nation has announced plans to proudly display it within a government building or at the future Shinnecock Nation Travel Plaza, symbolizing ongoing efforts to assert its identity, sovereignty, and cultural dignity.