Algonquian - Always Sovereign

The Shinnecock Nation, a federally recognized Indian Nation, is among the oldest self-governing tribes of Indians in the United States and has been a state-recognized tribe for over 200 years. In 1978, the tribe applied for Federal Recognition, and in 2003, was placed on the Bureau of Indian Affairs' "Ready for Active" list. On December 15, 2009, the BIA issued a finding of preliminary recognition for the tribe. Final federal recognition was accomplished on October 1, 2010.

Board of Trustees

The Trustee system of tribal government was approved by the New York State legislature in February of 1792. Since April 3, 1792, Shinnecock Indians have gone to the Southampton Town Hall the first Tuesday after the first Monday in April to elect three tribal members to serve a one- year term as Trustees. In April of 2007, the Shinnecock Indian Nation exercised its sovereign right as an ancient Indian Nation and returned to one of its basic Traditions: it bypassed the Southampton Town Hall and for the first time since 1792 held its leadership elections at home, where they will remain.

Tribal Council

The Shinnecock Nation Tribal Council was established in 1993 and is made up of 13 members who are elected by the Tribe for two-year staggered terms. The Council is an advisory board for assisting the Board of Trustees. For six months before the actual for-mation, Tribal members gathered every Saturday morning at Tribal Council Formation Meetings held in the Church’s Parrish Hall, to discuss the pros and cons of establishing a Council. The decision was yes, and the Council was formed by the community so that the membership could be kept more informed of tribal business.