Editorial: Montaukett Indian Nation deserves to be recognized in New York

Tuesday, July 25, 2017  

Will the Montaukett Indian Nation regain recognition in the state of New York after more than century? A bill to restore the tribe's status has the support of the largest newspaper on Long Island:

One hundred seven years ago, a judge in a state courtroom in Riverhead ruled that the Montaukett Indian Nation was extinct — putting pen to paper in front of a dozen or so stunned Montauk Indians who were very much alive.

For more than a century, members of the tribe have yearned to get their identity back. It’s time to give it to them.

A bill to grant official state recognition to the Montauketts, introduced by Assemb. Fred Thiele (I-Sag Harbor) and Sen. Ken LaValle (R-Port Jefferson), passed unanimously last month in both houses. Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo should sign it.

Read More on the Story:
Editorial: State should reverse error and recognize Montauketts (Newsday 7/23)

Also Today:
Montauketts move to create new governing structure (Newsday 7/19)
Assemblyman Thiele And Senator Lavalle Urge The Governor To Sign Montaukett Recognition Bill (LongIsland.Com 7/19)

Montaukett Indian Nation waiting on governor to sign recognition bill (July 11, 2017)
Bills introduced to recognize Montaukett Nation in New York (May 29, 2014)
Montaukett Nation welcomes action on state recognition bill (June 14, 2013)