Just Sayin’: New York recognition of Montauketts long overdue
Members of the Montaukett tribe in 1924 at a time when they made efforts in Washington to reclaim land. Credit: Cooper family
At the end of 2018, for the third time, Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo rejected a bill that would have the state recognize the descendants of the historic Montaukett tribe as Indians. Yes, Montauk, the destination, resort and party town, actually takes its name from a not-extinct tribe.
In his 2013 veto, the governor said the extensive review required before recognition was too expensive. In 2017, he rejected immediate recognition, saying a process was necessary. This time, he said the recognition process is incomplete.
A grave injustice was done to the Montaukett people in 1910 when a state court effectively declared the tribe extinct. The current legislation, sponsored by Assemb. Fred Thiele (I-Sag Harbor) and Sen. Kenneth LaValle (R-Port Jefferson), is the first step toward correcting a historic wrong.
I am a descendant of the historic Montaukett tribe, and I am here to tell you we are not extinct. Thousands of us are alive today, and many of us carry on our ancient, aboriginal traditions. It’s time to do the right thing. Rejecting the Montaukett recognition bill is rejecting justice.
D. Taobi Silva,
Shinnecock Indian Reservation
Editor’s note: The writer is a past tribal trustee.
Even before plowing, local roads are pitted
I’m writing to call attention to a quality-of-life matter that is expected as much as good schools and nice lawns by those who choose to pay Long Island taxes. I am talking about smooth roads!
It is January 2019, and so far the weather has been mild, with no freeze-and-thaw cycles, nor much if any snowplowing, yet the roads I drive are like a war zone. I am not talking about a residential side street. I am talking about Old Country Road between Merrick Avenue and the Meadowbrook Parkway. Also Carmen Avenue from Hempstead Turnpike to Old Country Road. Both are scarred with potholes and repair patches.
What is going to happen when it does snow?
I occasionally travel to India for business, and when it comes to roads in Nassau County, we are not far behind this much poorer and less-developed country. I have lived in this general area for 50 years and have never seen the roads in such poor condition. How many blown tires, bent wheels or worse must we endure?
Carl Marullo, Levittown
