Nya:wëh sgë:nö’, my fellow Senecas!
I hope this message finds you well.
May has been a very busy and productive month for the Seneca Nation’s Foreign Relations Committee (FRC), which includes myself, several Council members and our legal team. We meet weekly to plan and implement strategies on behalf of our Nation for our engagement and advocacy with outside governments—local, state, federal agencies, and organizations. I’m happy to report that our lobbying efforts are yielding meaningful results.
We recently received word that our continued dialogue with New York State environmental officials has led to the City of Olean being cited for violations. The Consent Order for the year 2042 may be amended to include an expedited compliance schedule. Olean must now show measurable progress and keep the DEC regularly informed on all wastewater-related matters. In addition, the DEC has committed to monitoring aquatic species and habitat health along the Allegany River.
These accomplishments are the result of persistent advocacy by our Conservation and Environmental Departments, and strong leadership from our Councillors—most notably Lisa Maybee and Tina Abrams. Thank you for your unwavering commitment.
Another critical initiative we’re focused on is raising awareness—and ultimately achieving reparations—for the mistreatment of children who were forced to attend the Thomas Indian School (TIS). On May 12th, several of our leaders and community members traveled to Albany for Native American Day, which included the first roundtable meeting in more than a decade between Native Nation leadership and the New York State Senate’s State-Native American Relations Subcommittee, chaired by Senator Joseph P. Addabbo, Jr.
While there, we were informed that our neighbor and NARS member, NYS Senator George Borello, would be reading a resolution, cosponsored by himself and Senator Addabbo, on the Senate floor recognizing the atrocities committed at TIS and issuing a formal apology. It was a powerful and heartfelt moment, and we were honored to witness it. I extend my deepest gratitude to Senator Borello for his steadfast advocacy on behalf of the Seneca people.
On May 16th, we participated in the Buffalo Creek Treaty Commemoration. It was a beautiful day of education and reflection, reminding us that our treaties remain vital and relevant today.
Then, on May 20th, we welcomed New York State Governor Kathy Hochul to our territory. Her visit understandably stirred mixed emotions, but the purpose was clear: she came to meet with, listen to, and personally engage with Thomas Indian School survivors and descendants—on campus, in a private, solemn setting focused on honoring our elders and their wellbeing.
After the closed meeting, Governor Hochul toured historical displays about the Thomas Indian School before delivering a public apology. It was a historic moment—one that carried the weight of truth, healing, and responsibility. This was an important first step in reconciling differences and moving forward for the benefit of our people.
Events like these require a tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes coordination. I want to sincerely thank the President’s Office, the Council staff, and the FRC team for their hard work organizing the Albany trip. For the Governor’s visit, special recognition must go to our First Lady, Nicole, who worked tirelessly alongside the Governor’s Deputy Secretary for First Nations, Dr. Elizabeth Rule, as well as law enforcement, TIS survivors, and countless SNI departments to ensure this historic visit went smoothly.
A special “thank you” also to Stephanie Timblin & Seneca Media, the Marshals Departments, IT, DPW, Facilities, Katyohkwa Singers and Dancers, Erika Seneca- Hastie for announcing, our gardeners, and everyone who stepped up to handle last-minute needs and ensure a safe, seamless day. Your efforts made all the difference.
I’d also like to take a moment to congratulate all of our graduates—I’m so proud of the smart, talented youth we have in our community. The future of our Nation is bright because of you.
And finally, congratulations to the Buffalo Bandits on their third consecutive championship! The team is fortunate to have two proud Seneca players, Clay Scanlan and Ron John. Well done!
Until next time,
~JC
