Applications for appointments to the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs

Persons interested in serving on the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs may apply by completing an “Application for Gubernatorial Appointment” and submitting it by July 1, 2008 or with a postmark date of July 1 or earlier. Applications are available on the “Boards and Commissions” section of the Governor’s homepage of his website 

http://governor.vermont.gov/boards/vermont-boards.shtml

Directions for mailing the form to the Governor’s office are included on the form.

Act 125 of 2006 established the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs to recognize the historic and cultural contributions of Native Americans to Vermont, to protect and strengthen their heritage, and to address their needs in state policy, programs, and actions.

The Commission is comprised of seven members appointed by the Governor for two-year terms.  The Commission meets at least three times a year and at any other times at the request of the chair. The seven members of the Commission will be selected by the Governor from a list of candidates compiled by the Division for Historic Preservation. The Division will consider applicants recommended from the Missisquoi Abenaki and other Abenaki and other Native American regional tribal councils and communities in Vermont as well as other interested persons. The Governor is expected to make the appointments in August. 

The commission has the authority to assist Native American tribal councils, organizations, and individuals to: (1)  Secure social services, education, employment opportunities, health care, housing, and census information; (2)  Permit the creation, display, and sale of Native American arts and crafts and legally to label them as Indian- or Native American­produced as provided in 18 U.S.C. § 1159(c)(3)(B) and 25 U.S.C. § 305e(d)(3)(B); (3)  Receive assistance and support from the federal Indian Arts and Crafts Board, as provided in 25 U.S.C. § 305 et seq.; (4)  Become eligible for federal assistance with educational, housing, and cultural opportunities; and (5)  Establish and continue programs offered through the U.S. Department of Education Office on Indian Education pursuant to Title VII of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act established in 1972 to support educational and cultural efforts of tribal entities that have been either state or federally recognized.