Onondaga Nation Continues Legal Fight Over Millions of Acres Lost to New York

The struggle for justice and accountability has been enduring for the Onondaga people, who have faced the loss of millions of acres of their ancestral land. This injustice has deeply impacted their community and their ability to preserve their heritage and way of life for future generations.

A Legacy Lost

Four or five years ago, Sidney Hill, the spiritual leader of the Onondaga Nation, faced a challenging question from his young son. After learning about the historical dispossession of their people's land, the son asked, "How can that be?" This poignant query reflects the profound impact that the loss of their ancestral territory has had on the younger generation.

Since the signing of the 1794 treaty, which guaranteed 2.5 million acres in central New York to the Onondaga, their land has been slowly taken away by the state of New York. This relentless seizure continued until only 11 square miles remained south of Syracuse, leaving the Onondaga people deeply dispossessed.

A Legal and Diplomatic Strategy

In response to this historic injustice, Onondaga elders and leaders have dedicated themselves to a legal and diplomatic battle for their rights. Sidney Hill, as the Tadodaho, has been at the forefront of this struggle, working tirelessly to protect his nation's legacy and guide it into the future.

In 2014, the Onondaga filed a case against the United States, alleging a violation of the 1794 treaty in an international human rights body. This legal action represents the second instance of an American Indian nation challenging the United States in such a forum, underscoring the gravity of their pursuit for justice.

The Environmental Impact

The Onondaga's struggle is further complicated by the environmental degradation of their remaining territory. Industrialization has left a lasting impact, rendering their streams and rivers unfit for fishing due to pollution. Despite these challenges, the Onondaga remain committed to safeguarding their land and seek to play a pivotal role in environmental decisions across their original territory.

Their demand for a seat at the table on environmental decisions and an acknowledgment of the owed 2.5 million acres demonstrates their unwavering dedication to preserving their heritage and environment.

Seeking Restitution

As the Onondaga pursue justice, they have articulated that monetary compensation is not their goal. Instead, they are advocating for the return of unspoiled land to hunt, fish, preserve, and develop according to their traditions and needs. This approach reflects their commitment to responsible and sustainable stewardship of the land they hold sacred.

A Persistent Legal Battle

The legal battle has been a prolonged and arduous one, spanning over four decades. Despite facing legal hurdles and the rejection of their claims at various levels, the Onondaga's resolve has remained unshaken.

Their decision to present their case before an international human rights body marks a significant turning point and has the potential to trigger a global conversation about the treatment of Indigenous peoples. This pivotal moment in their pursuit of justice underscores the gravity of the injustices they have faced and their unwavering determination to seek redress.

Holding Onto Hope

As the Onondaga await the decision from the international human rights body, Sidney Hill remains cautiously optimistic. While the outcome remains uncertain, the pursuit of justice has already borne significance for the Onondaga people. It has provided a platform to amplify their voices and advocate for the preservation of their legacy for future generations.