Peter Thomas: VT Abenaki recognition — Facts vs. poor scholarship, unsubstantiated accusations and unethical propaganda

A commentary in the Brattleboro Reformer, published Feb. 22, 2026

A media blitz by two foreign nations – the Canadian-recognized First Nations of Odanak and Wolinak – is being launched in an attempt to squelch the legislative authority of the State of Vermont to govern its own residents.

In 2011 and 2012, the Vermont legislature recognized the Missisquoi, Koos, Nulhegan and Elnu tribes/bands as Native communities after extensive vetting through research and public testimony. Now, a decade later, some members of Odanak are challenging the Native heritage of every member of the state-recognized Abenaki tribes. Abenaki leaders and non-Abenaki Vermonters have not sat idly by. Numerous counter commentaries can be found on the website of the Abenaki Alliance at https://www.abenakialliance.org/ .

Read Dr. Peter Thomas’ analysis in the Reformer.

Link to Peter Thomas’ website archiving his life’s work.