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THURSDAY, JULY 24, 2003

The Seneca-Cayuga Tribe of Oklahoma said its sovereign rights in New York are affirmed by a recent federal appeals court decision.

The tribe purchased 229 acres within ancestral territory in New York. According to Monday's ruling from the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals, this land could qualify as Indian Country, free from state taxation and jurisdiction.

The tribe has filed suit to declare the land Indian Country. The National Indian Gaming Commission is deciding whether the tribe can open a bingo hall.

Get the Story:
Tribes applaud Sherrill decision (The Syracuse Post-Standard 7/24)

Get the Decision:
Majority Opinion | Van Graafeiland Dissent

Lower Court Decision:
Oneida Nation v. Sherrill et al (June 4, 2001)

Relevant Links:
Oneida Nation - http://www.oneida-nation.net

Related Stories:
Cayuga Nation welcomes Indian Country decision (7/23)
Oneida Nation wins treaty lands case (7/22)
Dissenting judge suggested tribe wanted casino (7/22)
N.Y. city seeks reconsideration of Oneida case (7/22)
Oneida Nation awaits ruling on tax status (04/29)
Taxes of Oneida land questioned (05/15)
Judge: Oneida land is Indian Country (6/7)
Oneida Nation disputes tax lawsuit (2/1)