Welcome to the Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs 

It is the charge of this commission to recognize the historic and cultural contributions of Native Americans in Vermont, to protect and strengthen Native American heritage, and to address needs in state policy, programs, and actions. This commission provides technical assistance and explanation of the application process for State Recognition of Native American Indian Tribes and reviews the documentation of applicants. This commission develops policies and programs to benefit Vermont's Native American Indian population.

IMPORTANT NOTICE

Openings on the VT Commission on Native American Affairs

Applications DUE July 5

The Vermont Commission on Native American Affairs has 5 openings for commission members. If you know of any interested members of your community or other individuals who may wish to submit an application, please let them know of this opportunity.

The Commission’s duties and responsibilities are described in Title 1 of Vermont Statutes Annotated Chapter 23 (Native American Indian People) at http://www.leg.state.vt.us/statutes/fullchapter.cfm?Title=01&Chapter=023

New applicants: All applicants must complete the formal Application for Gubernatorial Appointment  - Application

Current Commission members who wish to re-apply: Please complete the Re-appointment Form - Re-appointment Form

The Governor’s office has informed us that it is NOT necessary that a notary public sign the form.

Applications are due to Giovanna Peebles by July 5. Applications must be sent to:

By mail:

Giovanna Peebles

VT Division for Historic Preservation

One National Life Drive – 6^th floor

Montpelier, VT 05620-0501

By email: Giovanna.peebles@state.vt.us

Title 1 Chapter 23 Section 852, excerpted below, provides details about appointments to the Commission:

(b). The commission shall be composed of nine members appointed by the governor for staggered two-year terms from a list of candidates compiled by the division for historic preservation. The governor shall appoint members who have been residents of Vermont for a minimum of three years and reflect a diversity of affiliations and geographic locations in Vermont. A member may serve for no more than two consecutive terms, unless there are insufficient eligible candidates. The division shall compile a list of candidates from the following:

(1) Recommendations from Native American communities residing in Vermont. Once a Native American Indian tribe has been recognized under this chapter, a qualified candidate recommended by that tribe shall have priority for appointment to fill the next available vacancy on the commission. [DHP highlighting]