Connecticut Group Challenges Shinnecock Tribe's Recognition

MYFOXNY.COM - Eva Kellis Smith, 90, hopes to live long enough to see her tribe, the Southampton-based Shinnecock Indian Nation, become recognized by the federal government.

In June, the U.S. Interior Department had approved the tribe's application for federal recognition, pending a 30-day comment period. But a group from Connecticut has filed a challenge.

More than 200 members of the Shinnecocks packed a courtroom inside the federal courthouse in Suffolk County on Long Island Wednesday, hoping it would be a day to celebrate. Instead, they found out they're being challenged.

Being federally recognized paves the way for the Indian nation to take part in federal programs such as college scholarships and health care. But it also opens up the possibility of the tribe getting involved in casino gaming.

The Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs represented by government attorneys says it is trying to protect jobs in Connecticut. It argues the Shinnecocks will open up casinos.

The group says the Shinnecocks should be denied recognition because they're getting financial support from a casino operator in Detroit. The group says a casino on Long Island could take away customers from Connecticut's Mohegan Sun and Foxwoods casinos.

Tribal members, however, countered, saying the recognition is about more than gaming; it's about education, scholarships, and more.

The judge overseeing the case said he wants the U.S. Interior Department to set a date in writing for resolving the case. The department has until the end of the month.

The Shinnecock Indian Nation has been seeking federal recognition since 1978.

"We're patient but we're tired," said Gordell Wright, a tribal trustee. "It's disgusting."