At the June 25th General Meeting of the Suffolk County Legislature, Legislator Welker and Presiding Officer Kevin McCaffrey presented Chairwoman Lisa Goree of the Shinnecock Council of Trustees with a proclamation recognizing her historic election as the first woman to lead the Shinnecock Nation since 1792.
Legislator Welker and Presiding Officer McCaffrey with Chairwoman Lisa Goree
Chairwoman Goree's election in April 2024 marks a notable return to the Shinnecock Nation’s matriarchal leadership roots. She was raised on the Shinnecock Territory and has served her Nation in various capacities, including as a former member of the Shinnecock Tribal Council, Election Committee, Enrollment Board, and as a member of the Shinnecock Museum’s Board of Directors. Additionally, she is employed as the Sole Assessor for the Town of Southampton.
Expressing her gratitude, Chairwoman Goree stated that her election is not just a personal honor but a significant achievement for the entire Shinnecock Nation. She emphasized the collective efforts of the Nation in reaching this historical milestone.
Legislator Ann Welker also celebrated this historic moment, noting the broader context of women in leadership positions across the region. She highlighted recent elections on the South Fork, the Town of East Hampton, the Town of Southampton, and the Second District of the Suffolk County Legislature, all of which have seen women taking on leadership roles. Legislator Welker expressed her excitement and optimism in working with Chairwoman Goree, emphasizing the importance of this moment for both the Shinnecock Nation and the broader community.
The Suffolk County Legislature presenting a proclamation to Chairwoman Lisa Goree, with Council of Trustees Secretary Bianca Collins, Sachem Daniel Collins Sr., and Sunksqua Linda Franklin