Connecticut Indians seek legislative commission

Thursday, March 15, 2007  

Connecticut Indians testified in favor of a bill to create a new legislative commission that would advocate for their issues.

The state has an Indian Affairs Council but it hasn't met for years, according to the Associated Press. The state also has one Indian Affairs coordinator, within the Department of Environmental Protection.

Connecticut Indians say the commission would serve as an independent voice for their issues. They want to promote cooperation and communication with the tribes in the state.

In law, the state recognizes five tribes: the Mohegan Tribe, the Mashantucket Pequol Tribal Nation, the Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation, the Schaghticoke Tribal Nation and the Golden Hill Paugusett Tribe. Only the first two tribes have federal recognition.

Get the Story:
Despite Casinos, Tribes Tell Lawmakers They Need More Advocacy (AP 3/15)
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