Dear John,
The bill to recognize Wabanaki self-determination, LD 2007, has been printed. While the bill will not move forward until next year, we need to keep up the momentum of support.
A 1980 law excluded the Wabanaki Nations in Maine from federal laws benefiting 570 other federally-recognized tribes across the country and stripped the Nations of sovereignty and self-determination. As a result, all four Wabanaki Nations in Maine – Mi’kmaq Nation, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Passamaquoddy Tribe, and Penobscot Nation – are stark economic under-performers compared to other federally recognized tribes in the Lower 48.1
LD 2007 would recognize the Wabanaki Nations’ right to self-determination and restore their right to self-govern. With another year before the legislature will vote on this bill, we have an important opportunity to show legislators that Mainers across the state support fairness and justice. That’s why we need your voice in the fight to pass LD 2007.
I hope you’ll consider joining us for Maine Conservation Voices – a storytelling workshop in support of Wabanaki sovereignty. We’ll gather virtually on Wednesday, June 7 from 6-7:00 PM to share stories – in the form of letters to the editor to local newspapers – and inspire others to take action. Please register here to join us.
