From: mnation@axess.com
Date: Mon, 06 May 1996 12:45:07 -0400
Organization: Mohawk Nation Office at Kahnawake
To: cbenedic@prairie.NoDak.edu
Subject: NY State Taxation Issue
Please post this, we are trying to get as much support as possible. Try
to get to the rally. Thanks, Yowennakon
May 3, 1996
URGENT - URGENT - URGENT
Indigenous Nations Ask for International Support for Economic Freedom in
New York State
She:kon
We are extremely concerned that New York State Governor George Pataki, on
behalf of the United States, is preparing to violate solemn treaties between
the United States and the Six Nations. On Tuesday, May 14th 1996, the First
Nations People are going to have a rally in Albany, New York before the
State Capitol Building from10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. We are asking you to
stand with us in unity by having a rally at the same time in front of the
American Embassy in your country.
Background: New York State Governor George Pataki and Tax Commissioner
Michael Urbach announced on February 16th 1996 that they would begin
collecting sales tax on gasoline and cigarettes in July 1996. This violates
solemn treaties enacted between the United States and the Six Nations
Iroquois Confederacy in 1794, 1789 and 1794 that each nation shall retain
its own sovereignty. Also violated is the Constitution of the United
States, which states, ...and all treaties made, or which will be made,
under the authority of the United States, shall be the supreme law of the
land;... In particular, the 1794 Treaty of Canadaigua provides that only
the United States Government can negotiate with the people of the Six
Nations on any important matter that affects the people or threatens the
peace.
Urbach issued an ultimatum to the Iroquois and Algonquin nations of 120
days ending July 5th 1996 by which time they must sign a State Tax Compact
or face the consequences. The consequences are a military attack, code
named Gallant Piper, whereby the New York State National Guard would help
the New York State Police invade the Indian territories to collect State
taxes on the sale of gasoline, alcohol, tobacco and gaming revenues.
A formal complaint has been filed with the President of the United States
to inform New York State that they do not have the authority to violate
solemn treaties made with the United States and to immediately rescind their
120-day ultimatum.
For more information contact: Mohawk Territory - Phillip Tarbell
518-358-3044; Unkechaug Territory - Harry Wallace 516-281-4143; Native
Business Association - Ross L. John Sr. 716-549-0090; Mohawk Nation Office
Kahnawake M.T. 514-635-5595; Mohawk Anti-tax Steering Committee 518-358-3241.