How Dean betrayed our first inhabitants, and the Republican who fought for them
By Timothy Page
While serving as Governor of Vermont, Howard Dean faced accusations of denying the existence of the Abenaki, an indigenous people with a long-standing presence in the region. This article delves into the specifics of Dean’s actions and statements that fueled the controversy, without attempting to justify his position. Additionally, it explores how Governor Jim Douglas, a Republican successor to Dean, played a significant role in officially recognizing the Abenaki.
During his tenure as Governor from 1991 to 2003, Howard Dean faced criticism for his alleged denial of the Abenaki’s existence in Vermont, out of what he claimed was worry that recognition would lead inexorably to gambling. Specific incidents and statements contributed to these accusations, highlighting Dean’s dismissive stance towards the indigenous population. For instance, there were reports that Dean refused to meet with Abenaki leaders, disregarding their attempts to engage in meaningful dialogue with the state government. Such refusal to acknowledge and engage with indigenous leaders suggested a lack of recognition and respect for their historical and cultural significance. This flew in the face of previous statements he had made in 1993 to them being integral to any understanding of the State’s history.
Furthermore, Dean’s refusal to officially recognize the Abenaki’s tribal status added to the controversy. Tribal recognition is an important factor in securing legal rights, resources, and preserving cultural heritage. By denying or downplaying the Abenaki’s tribal status, Dean’s actions were perceived as dismissive and disrespectful, a rejection of their historical existence and cultural identity.
Photo by Paul Comstock, via Flickr
In his 2010 testimony from the Vermont Statehouse, outlining Vermont Abenaki’s struggle for recognition to that point, Jeff Benay, with a decades-long career consulting for the Abenaki, and who held both a Doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis, as well as a Master’s Degree in Counseling, Organizational and Foundational Studies, spoke on these times under Dean:
“Dean looked for a way to offer the Abenaki state recognition without providing an opening for gambling.
Assistant Attorney General Bill Griffin advised him this was not possible.
Thus began an assault from the Executive Branch that was devastating.
Dean refused to address Homer St.Francis as “Chief.”
I actually received a phone call from a person in the State government asking if I had any “dirt” on the Abenaki.
If you find this incredulous, contact Nancy Gallagher and others who received similar phone calls.
When I asked David Rocchio, Howard Dean’s legal counsel about this, he said, “I am really sorry about this. I knew it was a mistake. It will stop right now.”
Though Dean’s position softened toward the end of his tenure, his administration continued to fear State recognition as Griffin continually reinforced the specious connection between recognition and gambling.
Once the Abenaki felt they had exhausted the Executive Branch of government, they turned to the Judiciary entity.
Through repeated acts of civil disobedience, the Abenaki were cited for fishing without licenses. They appeared in court and won a stunning decision against the State, thus allowing for hunting and fishing. The State’s attorney was in shock. He had little idea of the painstaking scholarship the Abenaki would present in court.”
Dean’s denial of the Abenaki’s existence in Vermont had far-reaching consequences, both politically and socially. It perpetuated a historical pattern of marginalization and erasure of indigenous peoples, reinforcing the struggles faced by indigenous communities in gaining recognition and support. Dean’s actions and statements sent a message that their voices and heritage were not valued or deserving of acknowledgment. Hardly a voice which would be welcome today.
Even in 2003, when Dean was making the circuit in his presidential campaign, while he received an enthusiastic response from the National Congress of American Indians in Albuquerque, NM, the leader of Vermont’s Native Americans had a much less friendly view of the former governor. April St. Francis Rushlow, chief of the Abenaki Nation of Missisquoi, questioned whether the delegates at the national gathering were aware of Dean’s record dealing with Vermont’s Abenaki. “I think they needed to take a look at his record in Vermont before they decided to vote for him on Native American issues,” Rushlow said, calling Dean’s overtures to them “a joke.” “He didn’t do too much for us when he was governor for 11 years,” she said. “He denied that we existed, unless it brought money into the state of Vermont.”
The controversy also shed light on the broader issues of cultural sensitivity and inclusivity within government policies. It highlighted the need for elected officials to recognize and respect the historical and cultural contributions of indigenous peoples, fostering an environment that encourages dialogue, understanding, and collaboration.
After Howard Dean’s tenure, Republican Governor Jim Douglas assumed office and played a pivotal role in officially recognizing the Abenaki. Recognizing the significance of their historical presence, Douglas took steps to rectify the past injustices and improve relations between the state government and indigenous communities.
Governor Douglas initiated dialogue with Abenaki leaders, signaling a willingness to address their concerns and collaborate on matters of mutual interest. Recognizing the importance of tribal status, Douglas worked towards granting official recognition to the Abenaki. In doing so, he acknowledged their rights and contributions, fostering an environment of inclusivity and respect.
Under Governor Douglas’ leadership, Vermont government agencies began to collaborate with the Abenaki on various initiatives. Efforts were made to support cultural revitalization, promote educational programs highlighting indigenous history, and establish stronger relationships with tribal leaders. These actions aimed to rectify the historical denial and marginalization faced by the Abenaki, ushering in a more inclusive approach to indigenous rights and heritage in Vermont.
Even then, however, the Democrats weren’t done opposing the Abenaki cause. As Benay stated in his 2010 testimony:
“A few months later, [they] were shocked to find out that the language of the bill giving recognition would not pass muster with the Federal Arts and Crafts Board thus denying Abenaki artisans the ability to sell their crafts as ‘native-made.’
Once again, the Abenaki had placed their faith in the State only to find out that the last-minute tinkering of the bill by the Democrat Attorney General William Sorrell’s office thwarted their sought-after state recognition.”
It took until 2012 for them to receive less-limited acknowledgement by the State.
The controversy surrounding Howard Dean’s denial of the Abenaki’s existence in Vermont highlights the challenges faced by indigenous communities in their struggle for recognition and cultural preservation. Dean’s actions and statements, such as refusing to engage with Abenaki leaders and downplaying their tribal status, perpetuated a pattern of marginalization and erasure.
However, under the leadership of Governor Jim Douglas, the state of Vermont took significant steps towards recognizing and honoring the Abenaki’s historical presence. Douglas’ efforts in initiating dialogues, granting official recognition, and fostering collaboration symbolized a shift in the state’s approach towards indigenous communities.
While it is important to acknowledge the controversy surrounding Dean’s denial, the subsequent actions of Governor Douglas underscore the potential for positive change and a more inclusive understanding of Vermont’s history. The recognition of the Abenaki serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity, respect, and collaboration in building a more equitable society.
Unlike Dean, we cannot simply deny the existence of those deemed politically inconvenient.
With Dean possibly throwing his hat into the ring for Governor of our State once again, let us remember these events, and not repeat the mistakes, or the Governor, of our past. Remind those who seek equality, truth, and diversity the truth about the man who will attempt to trick them into thinking he is on their side.
For an official response to recent efforts against the Abenaki in Vermont by political Progressives, please read: