Obituaries
Eastern Pequot Tribal Leader Dead At 95: Reports
A leader known for fighting for tribal rights, including federal recognition, died last week.
NORTH STONINGTON, CT — Chief Hockeo, Roy Sebastian, lifetime sachem and longtime spiritual leader of the Eastern Pequot Tribe, died Tuesday at 95, according to The New London Day. A ceremonial fire burned for three days on reservation land following his death in accordance with tribal traditions.
His daughter, Katherine Sebastian Dring, past Tribal Council chairwoman, said Chief Hockeo was known for dedicating his life to fighting for "tribal rights, lands and people," The New London Day reported.
He was among several tribal leaders who sought federal recognition for the tribe. He was bitterly disappointed when a recognition decision was reversed in 2005 following the objections of several towns, according to WSHU.
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A memorial service will be held June 12 at the Eastern Pequot Reservation in North Stonington.
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