(Host) The Vermont Senate says it’s time to grant official state recognition to Abenaki Indians.
Senators unanimously agreed with a House bill recognizing the centuries that members of the Indian tribe have lived in what now is Vermont.
Senator Vince Illuzzi:
(Illuzzi) “We continue to hope that this legislation will open doors to native Americans, in particular the Abenakis, to receive federal education and housing assistance in the form of grants and loans.”
(Host) Other supporters say it also sends a signal that state government respects the contributions that the Abenaki have made over the centuries.
The legislation now moves to Governor Jim Douglas, who has said he’ll sign it.