Submitted by Reesa Abrams
Recently, the #SenecaLandBack community group held meetings at Cattaraugus (Feb. 3) and Allegany (Mar. 2) to discuss the history of Seneca land loss and ideas for land reclamation. These gatherings mark the beginning of a new effort to assert our rights and regain control over our aboriginal territory throughout Western New York that holds deep cultural and historical significance for our people. Meeting hosts included Bruce Abrams, Becky Bowen, Wendy Huff, Randy John, Moe John, Pete Jemison, Todd Gates, Robert Odawi Porter, and Agnes Williams.
With many legal barriers in our history, the road to reclaiming our land is complex and multifaceted. However, the current political landscape offers some hope with Deb Haaland, the first Native person in the Cabinet, serving as the Secretary of the Interior. Haaland’s presence in a position of power presents an opportunity to advocate for our cause from within the federal government our land rights under the Canandaigua Treaty of 1794.
The #SenecaLandBack gathering emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within the Seneca community. While progress has been made, there is a recognition that we need more participation and diverse perspectives to advance our agenda. New ideas and approaches are essential in navigating the intricate processes involved in land reclamation.
Therefore, we extend an invitation to all Seneca individuals who share our passion and commitment to join us in this endeavor. Whether you have expertise in law, activism, community organizing, or simply a strong desire to get our Seneca Land Back, your contribution is invaluable.
If you’re interested in participating and contributing to our efforts, we encourage you to reach out to us at admin@senecalandback.org. Together, we can work towards making the dream of reclaiming our land a reality, ensuring that future generations can inherit the rich heritage and legacy of our ancestors.
