State-Native American Relations Subcommittee Meeting

On Monday, May 12, 2025, Chairwoman Lisa Goree, Vice-Chairman Lance Gumbs, and COT Secretary Sienna Hunter-Cuyjet joined leaders from the Seneca Nation, Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, Cayuga Nation, and the Unkechaug Indian Nation in Albany to attend the State-Native American Relations Subcommittee meeting. This gathering provided Tribal Nations the opportunity to speak directly with New York State senators and share the specific needs and concerns of our communities.

Chairwoman Goree and Vice-Chairman Gumbs highlighted several concerns for Shinnecock, including the need for increased healthcare funding, especially for elder care and community health programs; support for road maintenance and access ramps; unresolved legal issues around land use, recognition, and water rights; ongoing support for the state’s stance on banning Native-themed mascots; and challenges with the use of tax-exempt forms, including retailers adding unfair delivery fees. They also supported the call for Nation-to-Nation trade agreements with particular focus on cannabis. Additionally, they applauded the creation and support for an Office of Native American Affairs.

Shinnecock and its leadership was also recognized on the Assembly floor by Assembly Member Tommy John Schiavoni, for our continued presence and advocacy at the state level.

In a moment of historic significance, Shinnecock and our sister nations were present to witness the New York State Senate pass a resolution formally acknowledging and apologizing for the atrocities committed at the Thomas Indian School. This painful chapter in history included the forced removal of Native children—including youth from the Shinnecock Nation—who endured neglect, abuse, and cultural erasure at the hands of the state. The resolution marks a long-overdue step toward truth and healing for the survivors, their families, and the generations impacted by this legacy.