It is essential to acknowledge and honor the Indigenous peoples who called this land home long before colonization and ensure that their stories are not erased or forgotten.

As a proud graduate of Rutland High School, part Native American, and a grandparent of hopefully future students, I am interested in the education system of Vermont. Our schools should provide comprehensive education about local and regional indigenous populations, as well as national indigenous studies. 

Our children are growing up in a state rich with indigenous history and culture, yet this significant aspect is often overlooked or marginalized within our educational curriculums. This lack of representation not only deprives our children of understanding their own heritage but also fosters ignorance about the diverse cultures that have shaped Vermont.

According to the 2010 U.S Census Bureau report, there are over 6,500 Native Americans living in Vermont today (according to AI). Yet despite this population's significant presence and contribution to our state's history and culture, their stories remain largely untold within our classrooms.

By integrating indigenous studies into all school curriculums across Vermont we can foster greater cultural awareness among students while honoring the rich heritage of these communities. It will also help to rectify historical inaccuracies often perpetuated by mainstream narratives.

Let us ensure that every student has the opportunity to learn about the vibrant cultures that have played such an integral role in shaping our state's identity. Sign this petition today to call on all schools across Vermont to include curriculum related to local and regional indigenous populations.

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Currently, the curriculum in Vermont schools lacks substantial content on Indigenous cultures and histories. Indigenous peoples were the original inhabitants of the land now known as Vermont. Their presence dates back thousands of years, long before European colonizers arrived in the region. Despite being the first to settle on this land, their contributions and significance are often marginalized or altogether ignored in mainstream education. By neglecting to teach about the Indigenous peoples, students are deprived of a comprehensive understanding of the history of the region.

MOST Vermont students, or Vermonters period,  can not name a specific tribe or Indigenous nation that historically inhabited the state other than the well-known Abenaki name. 

The history and culture of Indigenous peoples are essential not only for historical accuracy but also for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. By teaching about Indigenous cultures, students gain a broader understanding of the complex tapestry of American history and are better equipped to confront issues of racism and discrimination.

I REPEAT: It is essential to acknowledge and honor the Indigenous peoples who called this land home long before colonization and ensure that their stories are not erased or forgotten.