Shinnecock Indian Nation

Here's My Response

January 29, 2004

I would like to share my response to a questionnaire received from Assemblyman Fred Thiele regarding the proposed Shinnecock gaming casino. The real issue is, who has a right to make decisions for the Shinnecock Nation?

Dear Mr. Thiele

I just received your "survey" regarding the proposed Shinnecock Indian Nation Casino. I am unable to fit my opinion in the mold of your survey, so I have elected to answer with this letter.

First and foremost: The Shinnecock Indians are members of a sovereign nation. The concept of sovereignty for Native Americans is incorporated in our national laws. This is true because of the many treaties that the U.S. government has signed with various tribes. Treaties signed by our government become part of our laws. It is also true in spite of the fact that most of these treaties were broken by that same U.S. government.

Point 2: We non-native members of the East End community have no business deciding what happens on sovereign Shinnecock lands. I support the Shinnecocks' right to decide.

Point 3: I have faith in the ability of the present Shinnecock leaders to continue the tradition of preserving the environment. They have pledged to do this. Ironically, the out-of-control development outside Shinnecock lands have cut off one option for self-suficiency the tribe attempted to use. Shellfish farming in Shinnecock Bay was abandoned because of water pollution.

Point 4: If and when plans are made for a casino, local and state officials should work with tribal leadership in making a plan for transportation.

Point 5: I urge you to depart from the adversarial approach to resolving differences. Listen to what the Shinnecocks are telling us. Surely if we cooperate there will be benefits for all of us.

Lastly: Thank you for your efforts to find ways to house non-natives who cannot afford to live where they work here on the East End. Remember also that the housing problems of too many on the reservation are worse than those outside tribal lands. Let us allow the Shinnecocks to find a way out of their poverty.

ANTHONY ERNST