The annual commemoration of the 1842 Buffalo Creek Treaty is one of the most important events the Seneca Nation has each year.
It is important for our Nation. It is important to this region. And it is important to our shared history.
The lands here at Buffalo Creek were part of the lands that were “forever” guaranteed to the Seneca people under treaties with George Washington and the leaders of the United States government following the American Revolution.
In this case, “forever” lasted only a handful of decades.
Broken treaties, unkept promises, manipulation and fraud toward Native people, and continued attempts to remove us – from our lands, and from society in general – are common throughout the history of the United States.
Those chapters have been written many times over, with new examples continuing to this day.
But, here at Buffalo Creek, our Seneca ancestors again left their imprint on another important chapter and lesson in history – that of Native strength and resiliency.
In this place, more than 180 years ago, our Seneca leaders preserved forever our Cattaraugus, Allegany and Oil Spring territories as ours, free from outside taxation by other governments, affirming forever our sovereignty.
From this place and from that moment, rooted in our sovereignty, a great Nation continued to grow. We have influenced this region, its residents, and its culture. We have strengthened its economy. We are inseparable from this place.
When we talk about the Seneca Nation and the Seneca people in Western New York, we do not talk in past tense, as if the Senecas are a people and a culture now extinct, relegated only to the history that others choose to write about and tell.
The Seneca Nation is and will always be an important part of the present and the future of Western New York.
We gather today not in Kansas, where the crafters of an earlier Buffalo Creek Treaty tried to force our relocation and take all Seneca land. No. Today we gather here, in Western New York, our home then, our home now, our home forever.
Here – on the lands our ancestors lived on, fought for and preserved. Here – in the region our people continue to influence, build and redefine. Here – where our future generations will continue to build our Nation for as long as time exists.
Each May, we gather here to take nourishment from the waters of Buffalo Creek and to draw strength from the lessons that were written here. And we remind our people, our future generations, and our neighbors that we are still here, and we will always be here – here on land that are forever and always Seneca.
A Speech from Bob Bridenstein, West Seneca City Councilman and former Salamanca School District Superintendent
“Ladies and gentlemen,
Nya:wëh Sge:nö’- Greetings and I hope you are well!
Today, I stand before you to acknowledge and celebrate the invaluable contributions of the Seneca Nation of Indians to both society and the vibrant tapestry of Western New York.
For centuries, the Seneca Nation has been a pillar of strength, resilience, and wisdom in our community. Their rich cultural heritage, rooted in a profound connection to the land and a deep reverence for nature, serves as a guiding light for us all.
The Seneca Nation’s contributions to society are abundant. Their commitment to preserving and sharing their traditional knowledge, language, and customs enriches not only their own community but also fosters greater understanding and appreciation among all who are fortunate enough to encounter their culture.
Moreover, the Seneca Nation has been instrumental in driving economic growth and development in Western New York. Through innovative business ventures, including gaming, hospitality, and tourism, they have created jobs, stimulated economic activity, and provided vital resources for the betterment of their people and the region.
But perhaps most importantly, the Seneca Nation has been a beacon of strength and resilience in the face of adversity. Despite centuries of challenges and injustices, they have persevered, maintaining their cultural identity and sovereignty with unwavering determination.
As we reflect on the contributions of the Seneca Nation of Indians, let us not only express our gratitude but also commit ourselves to honoring their heritage, upholding their rights, and working together to build a future of mutual respect, understanding, and prosperity for all. Thank you.”
