Justice Delayed

Whatever your opinion of the “monument” erected by the Shinnecock Nation along Sunrise Highway — in this space, back in May 2019, it was labeled “ghastly”; today, having lived with it for a time, it largely blends into the background like all other roadside beacons — there is an opinion everyone should share: The courts should settle the question of their legality once and for all.

It’s appalling that a ruling that was expected in midsummer is still pending, especially since there are dollar signs attached to the inaction as far as the Nation is concerned. The billboard exists, and the legal dispute has created uncertainty that manifests itself as canceled ad campaigns, and lost revenue. The tribe planned to use that money for a variety of purposes. That the questions linger, and the impact continues, through court inaction is unconscionable.

Justice delayed is justice denied — the old adage has never been more true than it is here. State Supreme Court Justice Sanford N. Berland’s ruling will be significant, whichever way it goes. It’s time, finally, to hear it.