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JUNE 7, 2001

A federal judge in New York on Wednesday ruled that land puchased by the Oneida Nation in Oneida County is Indian Country.

As a result, the land cannot be taxed by local govenments and it cannot be subject to foreclosure. The city of Sherill began foreclosure proceedings on land the tribe owns, claiming back taxes of $23,000.

The judge said the tribe proved the land it purchased falls within its territory as defined by the 1794 Treaty of Canandaigua.

The ruling vindicates long held arguments of the tribe. It also supports claims made by former Assistant Secretary Kevin Gover, who last year told Oneida and other tribal officials their land automatically becomes Indian Country.

The city and county are planning an appeal to the 2nd Circuit.

Get the Decision:
Oneida Nation v. Sherill et al (6/6)

Get the Story:
Judge sides with Oneidas on foreclosure case (AP 6/6)
Oneida Nation Statement (Oneida Nation 6/6)

Relevant Links:
The Oneida Nation - http://www.oneida-nation.net

Related Stories:
Oneida Nation disputes tax lawsuit (2/1)