Statement of recognition and pursuit of reconciliation for Vermont’s Abenaki People – Vermont Biz

Vermont Business Magazine On April 29, 2022, Governor Phil Scott released a proclamation recognizing the first week of May as Abenaki Recognition and Heritage Week. The Vermont Department of Mental Health recognizes that celebrating identity through culture is a vital part of mental well-being.

For thousands of years, the Abenaki people have lived on the land that we now occupy. Through their resilience and strength, they have worked through losses, and hardships. Accessing culturally informed mental health services continues to be a challenge today.

The Department of Mental Health would like to highlight the importance of establishing working relationships with the Missisquoi, Nulhegan, Koas, and Elnu Tribes, as well as intertribal organizations such as the Vermont Indigenous Heritage Center, the Vermont Abenaki Artists Association, and the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs.

Active engagement between the department and Abenaki Leadership will facilitate work to help address the mental health needs of these communities. The Department hopes that, through ongoing conversations, intentional services and supports, and inclusion in new projects, the process of repairing damage to Abenaki communities will continue.

More work is needed to create space for all Vermonters, especially those who are most vulnerable. Acknowledging the needs of high-risk groups is an essential part of addressing mental health needs across the state. Explicit recognition of Abenaki identity and culture is a critical aspect of overall wellness.

The department will work to continue recognizing and meeting the needs of our Abenaki neighbors.

Waterbury, Vt. Governor

Go here to see the original:

Statement of recognition and pursuit of reconciliation for Vermont's Abenaki People - Vermont Biz