Seminole Nation of Oklahoma joins opposition to Florida detention site

The Seminole Nation of Oklahoma is standing with the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Miccosukee Tribe in opposing the construction of a migrant detention center in the Big Cypress region of Florida, according to KOSU. The proposed 5,000-bed facility, referred to as “Alligator Alcatraz,” is located near traditional village sites and sacred lands.

“These lands are not empty stretches of wilderness,” said Seminole Nation Chief Lewis Johnson. “They are living, breathing homelands, deeply tied to the cultural, spiritual and historical identity of Miccosukee and Florida and Seminole people.” Jake Tiger, cultural specialist and Thomas Palmer Band chief, was quoted as saying that no one “can be illegal on stolen land” and criticized the project as “a clear case of colonial oppression.” Tribal leaders argue the project disrespects the land and their shared history.