Tribal Council Observes Passing of former-Tribal Chief Phillip H. Tarbell

Dec 17, 2021

AKWESASNE -- The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council was saddened to learn about the sudden passing of former-Tribal Chief Phillip H. Tarbell, who peacefully passed away at his home on Tsiothóhrha/December 16, 2021. Commonly known as “Phil”, he was elected as a Tribal Sub-Chief in 1993 -- before serving as Tribal Chief from 1994 to 1997. He initially served under the constitutional government before being elected under the “3-Chief” system to the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe.

During his time on Tribal Council, Phil was passionate about strengthening the governance processes of the tribal government -- having worked in consultation with tribal membership on the development and enactment of the Tribal Council Procedures Act of 1994; Tribal Law Development, Interpretation and Codification Procedures Act of 1994; and the Judiciary Act of 1994.

While on Tribal Council, Phil also joined efforts to diversify Akwesasne’s economy through Indian gaming and generate much-needed tribal revenue that helps supports community programs and services. He contributed to the formation of the tribal gaming commission and helped make improvements to the Tribal State Gaming Compact through the tribal referendum process.

Following his term, he continued to contribute towards the development of other tribal legislation through his regular attendance at tribal meetings, consultation and informational forums, and work sessions. He was major advocate for the creation of the Tribe’s Elders Benefit Program that continues to provide monthly financial assistance to tribal seniors.

Before running for elected office, Phil worked for the New York State Education Department as the Iroquois Cultural Affairs Specialist in the New York State Museum -- where he joined lobbying efforts that successfully resulted in the American Indian Tribal Libraries Act of 1977, which helped secure funding for the eventual creation and operation of the Akwesasne Library.

Phil is best known for being steadfast in ensuring transparency and accountability of the tribal government through the ongoing adherence of established policies and procedures. His institutional knowledge of tribal and state political dynamics and processes will be missed in tribal discussions.

On behalf of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe, we extend our sincerest condolences and warmest thoughts to his family, his friends, and to those community members and others whose life he has touched throughout his years.

Out of respect for the passing of former-Tribal Chief Philip H. Tarbell, the tribal flag has been lowered at the Ionkwakiohkwaronon Tribal Administration Building -- where it will remain at half-staff until the day after his memorial service.

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The Saint Regis Mohawk Tribal Council is the duly elected and federally recognized government of the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe.