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Abenaki Indians renew fight for recognition |
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Written by Administrator
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Wednesday, 17 November 2010 |
Abenaki Indians renew fight for recognition
Newport, Vermont - November 16, 2010
Lawmakers created the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs to identify tribes that may be recognized by the state.
The nine-member panel began that process Tuesday with a public hearing in Newport. In the past, Vermont has been reluctant to recognize Abenaki Indians-- concerned it could lead to federal recognition and casinos and land claims.
Tribal leaders say that's not the case. They simply want to market their crafts as "Indian made" and need to be recognized to do so.
The commission says tribes must meet nine criteria. One concern Tuesday was privacy.
"A lot of private information has been thrown around about a lot of people in the Abenaki community here -- not just in Vermont, but in other parts of the country --it's really hurting the people," said Roger Long-Toe Sheehancet, an Enlu Abenaki.
"Unfortunately, I believe the Abenaki are going to be the first to have their tribal roles smeared on the Internet for all to see. But I also want to say that we're going to be the first generation to step up and say we can take it," said Luke Willard of the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs.
The commission will hold another public hearing next month in Johnson.
http://www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?S=13509461 |
