Pictured: President Seneca speaks at the 300th Anniversary event at Old Fort Niagara.

Welcome to summer! The months are really flying by, and we all know how quickly summer can pass. It is hard for me to believe that we only have a few months left in my two-year term as President.

Since taking office on November 12, 2024, I have worked with Council and my team to move forward with many initiatives to serve the Seneca people and strengthen our Seneca Nation. My focus every day has been to promote economic security for our people by focusing on securing a new Class III gaming compact, recovering millions of dollars stolen from us by New York State, and engaging with the Trump Administration to ensure federal funding for our vital programs.

Throughout the past 20 months, we have promoted political engagement and restored respect by re-building political alliances with federal, state, and local officials in Washington, Albany, and Western New York, including an historic apology from the State of New York for atrocities committed against Seneca people.

And we have protected our sovereign integrity and lands by fighting to restore our use of our Kinzua lands, our Thruway lands, and identifying new lands for development and housing. This newsletter contains a report to our people on some of the key activities and accomplishments of my administration to date. If you have any questions regarding that information, please contact me or my office.

In other news, there were some exciting activities taking place on our territories and across the region these last few weeks. More than 300 members of the Miwok tribe in California traveled to visit the Seneca Nation recently. They toured our territories, enjoyed a day of culture at the Sully Huff building and enjoyed lunch at Seneca Fire. The visit concluded with a shared meal and community social. Our staff did an outstanding job welcoming our visitors and making sure their needs were met throughout their visit. Many nya:wëhs to everyone who assisted in this effort, and to First Lady Nicole Seneca for officially representing the President’s Office at the dinner and social gathering.

I also had the opportunity to welcome former U.S. Congressman Joseph Kennedy III to the Cattaraugus Territory for a discussion on energy matters. Today, Mr. Kennedy serves as President of Citizens Energy, a non-profit energy company, where he focuses on renewable power initiatives. It was a very interesting discussion.

I was also honored to serve as a guest speaker at the 300th anniversary event for the French Castle at Old Fort Niagara, along with representatives from the United States, Canada and France. The Haudenosaunee people are forever linked to the Fort’s history. Our ancestors’ views were ignored when the Fort was built by the French, and Haudenosaunee warriors later helped secure the Fort for the British. Today, 300 years later, our views are still too often ignored by other governments. Participating in this event was an opportunity to remind elected leaders of their treaty obligations when dealing with us as a sovereign government, and to remind everyone that the Seneca people have always been in this region, will always be in this region, and must always be respected.

Next weekend is July 4, when the United States will celebrate Independence Day and the country’s 250th birthday. Our relationship with the United States, which is located on our lands, is a complicated one. On one hand, our ancestors influenced the country’s founders and provided a framework for its democratic government and pledged perpetual peace between our people. Yet, broken treaties, broken promises and the attempted destruction of Native people are a very real and dark part of the last 250 years.

Meanwhile, throughout the past 250 years, Native warriors have bravely served in the United States military, fighting in defense of freedom, at a higher rate than any other population. No matter how, or if, you plan to recognize July 4th, please be safe and share a thought of gratitude for our Veterans and warriors who are still serving in defense of freedom around the world today.

Finally, I again want to congratulate all of our graduates across the Seneca Nation. We have enjoyed celebrating with you at the many banquets and awards events these past several weeks. If you and your family are celebrating or traveling this summer, be safe and enjoy this time of year. I hope your Summer 2026 is filled with many happy memories!

Until next time,
J.C.

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Three hundred years ago in June, French soldiers and tradesmen landed at the mouth of the Niagara River to establish Fort Niagara. Their mission was to construct a massive stone fortification disguised as a house. This building, known today as the French Castle, is the oldest structure in the Great Lakes Basin.

To celebrate this historical milestone, Old Fort Niagara presented a unique public program, June 5-7. On Friday, regional school students experienced the Niagara Frontier of three centuries ago, learning about historical building trades that went into the French Castle and reliving the early 18th century, when Lake Ontario was a contested frontier.

Saturday was rededication day, as officials from the Seneca Nation, France, the U.S. and Canada gathered to mark the French Castle’s tricentennial. The day began with a recreation of the arrival of French engineer Gaspard-Joseph Chaussegros de Léry and his military escort at 11 a.m. The party arrived aboard the U.S.S. Trippe, an early 19th century sailing vessel built by the Buffalo Maritime Center. After marching into the fort, the party will begin laying out the fortifications in a hands-on military engineering demonstration.

At noon, The Haudenosaunee Dancers presented a demonstration of Indigenous dance and stories. This program brings to life the rich cultural traditions that predated the arrival of the French and the establishment of Fort Niagara. This was followed by the recreation of a council between Seneca diplomats and the French commander, Capt. Charles LeMoyne de Longueuil. Women’s fashion of the 1720s will take center stage at 1:30 p.m. as the Dames of Vintage Experiences present French women’s fashions 1720-60.

Officials from the Seneca Nation, France, the U.S. and Canada gathered at 2 p.m. for a rededication ceremony in front of the French Castle. This will be followed by an artillery salute, marking 300 years of history at the mouth of the Niagara River. The program ended with a recital of early 18th century harpsichord music in the Sir William Johnson Room of the French Castle.

Read more HERE!

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We started the month of June by raising the Seneca Nation Pride Flags outside of our administration buildings in Allegany and Cattaraugus. The Nation has raised the flag each of the past several years as a show of support for our 2SLGBTQIA+ community. As one Nation, let’s always stand and work together to make sure our community is welcoming and united in respect and equality for all Senecas.

There have been many important and exciting developments and discussions within our community recently. A few weeks ago, we celebrated the opening of our newest two-bedroom, six-plex housing development in Cattaraugus. These new apartments create more safe, affordable living opportunities for Seneca people on our territories. This is the latest in a years-long initiative to create more opportunities for Senecas to return home, establish roots, raise their families and build their futures here on our homelands, surrounded by and connected to our community. Nya:wëh to our Council and everyone who is making the dream of living on our territories possible for more Senecas.

The Nation’s DOT also recently held a community conversation regarding needed safety improvements at the Four Corners intersection in Cattaraugus. This high-traffic intersection is shown to have a crash rate higher than the national average. Nya:wëh to everyone who attended the meeting and all who have shared their concerns and thoughts for how we can make our roads safer for everyone.

In Allegany, we recently welcomed Mayor Amy Sherburne of Olean for a visit and discussion with Nation officials regarding our ongoing efforts to protect Ohi:yo’ from dangerous sewage overflows from Olean’s wastewater treatment system. Mayor Sherburne was elected in November and is the newest member of the joint Nation-City taskforce created in 2025 to address the harmful overflows and discharges into the river. During Mayor Sherburne’s visit, she and Nation officials discussed Olean’s commitment to ensuring the City adopts industry standards and best practices to minimize environmental and health impacts related to wastewater discharges into Ohi:yo’. The Nation and the City remain committed to regular Task Force meetings in order to keep needed upgrades and remediation efforts moving forward in a timely way so that the river can be protected for all who depend upon her waters.

Across our territories and throughout the entire region, several young people are marking the important milestone of their high school graduation this month. This is an exciting and important achievement in their lives. The steps they take across the graduation stage are the first steps into the next exciting phase of their lives. I know I speak for our entire community when I say that we are proud of all of our graduates and that we are excited to see what their future paths hold in store for them. Ja:göh to all of our graduates in the Class of 2026!

Finally, next weekend, we will celebrate Father’s Day. I want to wish all the fathers within our Nation a happy Father’s Day. The role and responsibility we all take in helping to raise our children is one of the greatest honors and responsibilities we can have. The example we set and the lessons we share with our children and grandchildren today can help shape their future, and the future of our Nation, for years to come. I hope you enjoy your Father’s Day surrounded by those who mean the most to you.

Until next time,
J.C.

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Pictured above: President Seneca at the Buffalo Creek Treaty Commemoration.

With summer fast approaching, I hope everyone is starting to enjoy a bit more sunshine, warmer temperatures and time outside.

Soon after recognizing Onöndowa’ga:’ Day and the importance of the 1842 Buffalo Creek Treaty, we headed to Albany for our third Seneca Impact Day during my administration.

Several Nation officials, employees and community members traveled to the state Capitol, where we met and interacted with many elected leaders, state agencies and staff, and people from across New York, as well as with representatives from other Native Nations. There were also cultural displays and demonstrations in the Legislative Office Building, where everyone passing by could learn more about the Seneca Nation, our people, our culture, and our history.

The day started with a roundtable discussion with the New York State Senate State-Native American Relations Subcommittee. This was an opportunity for the Native Nations in attendance to discuss priority issues with the Senators on the committee. Some of the priorities we discussed, both with the subcommittee and during a full schedule of legislative and agency meetings throughout two days in Albany, included environmental clean-up activities on our territories, economic development initiatives, the status of our gaming Compact, and the need for New York State to actively support the revitalization of our traditional Seneca language.

During her visit to the Cattaraugus Territory a year ago, when she acknowledged and apologized for New York’s role in the operation of the Thomas Indian School and the devastating impacts on our people, Governor Hochul made a commitment to strengthen education initiatives to ensure that our history and culture were taught and preserved. It is time to follow through on that commitment.

Throughout its history, the state’s actions have nearly destroyed our traditional language. Revitalizing our language goes far beyond the realm of K-12 education, especially as our fluent speakers continue to age. That is why we want to explore the construction and operation of immersion schools on our territories – an initiative the state should help fund for the damage they caused. We will continue to push this initiative to bring our language back.

Here at home, it is graduation season. May has seen many of our college students receive their degrees at campuses from coast to coast. As President, it is beyond gratifying to see so many young Senecas pursuing higher education and excelling in the classroom and beyond. Ja:göh to all of our graduates and good luck with your next chapter, whether that is additional education or beginning your professional careers. Your families and our entire Seneca community are very proud of you!

Finally, this past Monday, as we do every year, we observed Memorial Day. Native people, including our Seneca warriors, have a long and distinguished history of military service. Some made the ultimate sacrifice in defending freedom and providing security for all of us here at home and others around the world. Let us always remember and honor their bravery and selfless sacrifice. In addition, with tensions in the Middle East and elsewhere, let’s ask the Creator to continue to watch over those warriors who are serving today, so they remain safe.

Until next time,
J.C.

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Heyhey Nya:wëh Sgë:nö’,

I hope all mothers enjoyed a happy and peaceful Mother’s Day. As a matrilineal society, we hold women in the highest regard. You are the lifeblood of our Nation, and the carriers of our Seneca identity. For generations, Seneca women have raised and strengthened Seneca families, nurtured and sustained our culture and traditions, preserved our ways of life, and served as leaders in our community. I want to wish a very special Happy Mother’s Day to my wife, First Lady Nicole Seneca, for all that she does to support our family and our Seneca community.

This month, we also remember and continue to fight for those who have gone missing from our community and other Native communities around the world. May 5 was Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Awareness Day. Today, there are still thousands of missing and murdered cases across Indian Country that have gone unsolved. It is an abomination that so many Native people have been targeted and victimized. Far too many Native families and communities are left to deal with holes in their hearts that may never be filled. We must all always give voice to their pain and struggle and keep fighting on their behalf.

Finally, today is Onöndowa’ga:’ Day. This morning, we will be holding our annual gathering near the waters of Buffalo Creek in West Seneca, where we will again recognize the importance of the 1842 Buffalo Creek Treaty, what it stands for, what it protects, and what it guarantees.

The treaty restored Seneca possession of the Nation’s Cattaraugus and Allegany territories after an earlier, manipulated treaty attempted to stake claim to all Seneca lands and relocate the Seneca people to present day Kansas. Thanks to the resilience and steadfast determination of our ancestors, we are still here on our ancestral homelands, where we continue to impact and influence our entire region and build a strong future for our next seven generations.

The 1842 Buffalo Creek Treaty further affirmed that the Seneca Nation will never be subject to taxation on our lands. Article 9 of the Treaty clearly states that the United States agrees to “protect such lands of the Senecas within the state of New York as may from time to time remain in their possession from all taxes, and assessments for roads, highways and other purpose until such lands shall be sold and conveyed by said Indians and possession thereof shall be relinquished by them.”

We have faced attempts throughout history to take our lands, to physically remove our people, and to completely erase our culture and existence. Each challenge has strengthened our resolve and our resilience. Today, as we have done for many years, we will gather with fellow Senecas, friends and neighbors, to take nourishment from the lessons and example of our ancestors so the Seneca Nation and our people will keep growing stronger, forever, and we will remind everyone that this region is forever Seneca.

I hope everybody takes this day to reflect on our shared journey so far, the enduring example and lessons of our ancestors, and to thank the Creator for the abundant gifts he has given us which we enjoy here on our homelands in Cattaraugus and Allegany, and wherever the people of Onöndowa’ga:’ are gathered.

Until next time,
J.C.

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I hope everyone in our community is doing well.

I want to start this message by recognizing Councillor Tina Abrams, who was recently selected by New York State Senator George Borrello as the “New York State Woman of Distinction” honoree for the 57th Senate District. The award was created to honor women whose achievements, leadership, and dedication have enriched the quality of life in their communities and across New York.

Tina’s selection reflects her leadership and passionate service to our Nation and the greater community. In addition to her decades of service to the Seneca Nation as an elected member of Council and on many community committees and initiatives, Tina has held roles on the Cattaraugus County Planning Board since 2002, and on the Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center Board of Directors since 2021. Senator Borrello knows well the importance of the Seneca Nation to the entire region, and I thank him for recognizing Tina in this way.

Tina will be honored alongside all of the Women of Distinction honorees from across New York at a special ceremony in Albany on May 5. Ja:göh, Tina for your well-deserved recognition, and nya:wëh for tireless advocacy on behalf of our people.

Over the past several weeks and months, we have been paying close attention to many of the political discussions and initiatives taking place in Washington, D.C. and their potential impacts on Native Nations and our people. One important discussion concerns potential impacts to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP benefits. Many people depend on these benefits to help feed their families.

While the Trump Administration has been targeting cuts to the SNAP program, it is important to remember that there are certain exemptions for Native people. If you currently receive or are eligible to receive SNAP benefits, important information on eligibility and procedures for applying for benefits is available in the Clerk’s Office. Please make sure that you are informed and protected in preserving your eligibility for these important benefits.

In addition to SNAP benefits, we are closely monitoring other proposals, debates and discussions, and any initiatives that could impact Indian Country, as federal officials plan for the Fiscal Year 2027 budget.

Here at home, the organizers of the annual Indigenous Fashion Show at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino have issued a call for Seneca designer and model applications for this year’s show. All interested Seneca candidates must submit an application by next Thursday, April 30. The 4th Annual Indigenous Fashion Show will take place on Saturday, November 21 at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. More information is available at SenecaNiagaraCasino.com.

Finally, Spring is definitely in the air, which means that it is time for our Spring Clean-up initiatives. Spring Clean-up will take place in Allegany and Steamburg from Monday, April 27 – Friday, May 1 from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. each day. Drop-off locations are behind the DPW building in Allegany or behind the Steamburg Community Center. This service is provided for enrolled Seneca Nation members only, and no contractor waste or construction debris will be accepted. Elders and members of our community with disabilities who need to schedule a pick-up can call the DPW at 716-945-1790, ext. 3150. Let’s all do our part to keep our community beautiful!

Let’s hope we all enjoy plenty of Spring sunshine and warm weather in the days ahead.

Until next time,
J.C.

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This is Buffalo Business First’s 14th year compiling a list of the most powerful business leaders in Western New York. They consider quite a few factors: the parameters of a job, number of employees, community activities, length of time at a company and the overall impact of a person’s influence. They then use their collective years of news experience to determine who belongs on the Power 250 list, followed by the Power 200 Women list in the summer and the Power 100 Business Leaders of Color in the fall.

Business success is important and benefits the region as a whole. So many of the men and women featured in this year’s list have achieved that. But when we truly reach beyond our own individual organizations to focus on the greater good, we can effect real change. And that is true power.

Ja:göh President Seneca, and congratulations to all on this list.

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Pursuant of Section 12 of the Constitution of the Seneca Nation of Indians, notice is hereby given to you that the Council of said Nation will convene in Regular Session:

When: Saturday, May 9, 2026

Time: Starting at 9:30 a.m.

Where: Seneca Allegany Administration Building (SAAB), Allegany Territory

The Seneca Nation will be utilizing the virtual online platform “Microsoft Teams” for the Council Sessions for enrolled members to have access to each Council meeting.

To participate, enrolled members will need access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone as well as a valid email address to sign up. Please follow the instructions and fill in all requested information when requesting online. Once registered, an email will be sent confirming your request. Another email with a link to join the online Council Session will go live at the scheduled meeting date and time. Please note that you must register by 9 am on the day of the Council session. Once the session has begun individuals will not be permitted to enter. Members must register for each month.

We will upload the registration link once available. Please check back……Nya:wëh.

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I hope everyone had a nice Easter and that many of you have been enjoying the Cattaraugus Community Fair these past few days.

March was a busy time, with several important conferences and events locally and across the country. The annual Reservation Economic Summit – or RES – took place in late March, attracting a large crowd of representatives and officials from Native Nations across the United States, as well as members of Congress, officials from federal agencies, and business leaders. It is always encouraging and enlightening to see and hear from so many different leaders from across Indian Country and to talk about the paths and opportunities that are ahead of us – from business and tourism to energy, infrastructure and beyond.

During the conference, I took part in a panel discussion entitled “The Box to the Boardroom: Indigenous Ownership in Professional Sports” discussing our experience to date as the owners of the Rochester Knighthawks. (Speaking of the Knighthawks, they will be at KeyBank Center tomorrow night taking on the Buffalo Bandits!)

After RES was over, the annual Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention took place the following week. Once again, leaders from Native Nations and Native gaming entities gathered to discuss the changing and challenging landscape in the gaming industry and to get a look at new products and services available for our gaming and hospitality properties. I was again asked to participate in a panel discussion, this one entitled “Protecting Tribal Sovereignty, Economies and Communities in the 2026 Midterm Elections.” There are certainly many issues for Indian Country to watch in this year’s federal election cycle, not to mention, for us, in New York’s statewide election in November.

Back at home, the Nation welcomed Dr. Rodney Haring and several of his colleagues from Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center for an announcement of a three-year grant Roswell Park received from Eli Lilly and Company to promote lung health and wellness in Native workplaces across North America. The Nation has been an active participant in Roswell’s Workplace Health Education Program, which brings important tools to our people to help them start their lung health journey.

As we know, Native communities have some of the highest rates of cancer and cancer-related deaths of any population group for several types of cancer. If we are going to break the cycle of elevated rates of disease, like cancer, plaguing Native communities, we need (Continued on next page)
leaders, partners and advocates like Dr. Haring and the team at Roswell Park, who have the knowledge, experience and ability to help our people navigate the challenges and the barriers to care that Native people often confront.

While physical health and wellness are critically important, so too are mental and emotional health. That will be the focus of our Spring Healing Conference at Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino later this month. The theme of the conference is “Voice of Wisdom. Stories of Resilience. Pathways to Healing.” This three-day conference will feature cultural teachings, a powerful lineup of speakers, and meaningful opportunities to connect, share, and promote resilience, well-being and strength.

I hope that anyone from our community who is in need of support and encouragement as they progress along their personal healing journey will attend the conference. For more information, email HealingConference@sni.org, or call Christina Porter at 716-945-1790m ext. 3003. Additional information on the Healing Conference can be found on the Nation’s website – sni.org.

Finally, in keeping with the thoughts on the importance of health, wellness and healing, the community is invited to attend upcoming meetings with the Nation’s new Human Services Division. This is a chance to learn about the important work happening across our territories with programs like Family Support Services, Crime Victim Services, Seneca Strong, Opioid Response, and Community Wellness & Outreach.

Meetings are scheduled for 5-7 p.m. on April 13 at the ACC, April 14 at the CCC, and April 15 at the Buffalo Creek office. The meetings will cover resources and support available to our community members, as well as share and discuss ideas and priorities for our community. For more information on these meetings, call 716-532-4035.

Until next time,
J.C.

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Since my last message, the United States has engaged in military activity in Iran and the Middle East. I want to start this newsletter by sending our community’s thoughts and well wishes to all of the brave warriors who answer the call to serve and put themselves in harm’s way. The Seneca Nation has a pronounced and distinguished record of military service throughout our history. I hope that the Creator continues to watch over all of our active duty warriors – at home and abroad – and keeps them safe.

In early March, I traveled to Washington, where I testified on Capitol Hill before the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs. I also submitted written testimony to the House of Representatives Appropriations Committee Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee as part of their scheduled American Indian and Alaska Native hearings. From advocating for legislation to pushing for important funding resources, I am determined to use every opportunity to ensure that the Seneca Nation’s voice and priorities are clearly heard in Washington and beyond.

In Albany, the New York State Legislature and the Governor are now in the process of negotiating and finalizing this year’s State budget, which is due by April 1. We have been monitoring this process closely and have had some positive discussions with various New York State agencies regarding possible funding avenues for priority projects on our territories. We are also working to finalize plans for another Seneca Impact Day in Albany later this Spring. We will provide more information once details have been finalized.

Here at home, we are getting ready for many upcoming events. The 1365 Resettlement Committee will host a community meeting tomorrow – Saturday, March 28 – from 9:00 a.m. – Noon in the Seneca Allegany Administration Building, Council Chambers. Community members are invited to attend and hear an update on the Committee’s activities and progress.

Our annual Cattaraugus Community Fair will take place April 6-10. There will be a full schedule of fun activities for the entire family to enjoy throughout the week. A full schedule of events is available on the Nation’s website sni.org.

In Allegany, the Seneca Nation Education Department will hold a community meeting on April 9 at the Allegany Community Center. Community members are invited to enjoy a light dinner and share your ideas to help shape the best future for our children.

Information on these and other events taking place in our community can be found on the Nation’s website – sni.org.

I also want to share a special congratulations to the members of the Lake Shore High School Girls Varsity Basketball team, who won the Section VI Class A championship! Ja:göh on a tremendous season, ladies!

Looking ahead, don’t forget to put Saturday, April 11 on your calendars! That is when our Rochester Knighthawks travel to Buffalo to take on the Bandits at KeyBank Center. Let’s cheer our team on for a season sweep of the hometown rivals. Go ‘Hawks!

Finally, I hope everyone enjoys time over the Easter holiday with family and loved ones, and hopefully some sunshine. Safe travels to all who are taking some time away while the kids are off from school.

Until next time,
J.C.

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