On Tuesday, May 2, 2023, at 12 pm, the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs, along with the Abenaki Alliance, Vermont Abenaki tribal leaders, and community representatives, held a press conference to celebrate Governor Scott’s Proclamation 23-054 naming May 1-7, 2023 as Abenaki Recognition and Heritage Week. In addition to Governor Scott’s fifth consecutive proclamation, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Peter Welch, and Rep. Becca Balint issued a congressional delegation statement in commemoration.
On May 2, the Vermont House of Representatives is expected to pass a resolution affirming Abenaki Recognition and Heritage Week. The land known as Vermont has been home to the Abenaki and their ancestors for more than 12,000 years. After decades of advocacy and official state recognition in 2010, continued support from the Governor, Congress, and the Vermont legislature affirms the importance of Vermont’s Native American tribes and honors the rich heritage and cultural contributions of the state’s indigenous People.
Speakers at the press conference were:
- Rich Holschuh, Chair of the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs*
- Representatives from Vermont’s Congressional Delegation
- Rodney A. Smolla, President of Vermont Law and Graduate School
Location: Ceder Creek Room, Vermont State House. Montpelier, VT.
Hosted by the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs and the Abenaki Alliance.
