Why are the Odanak and Wôlinak Abenaki First Nations expressing dissatisfaction with Vermont’s state recognition of the Elnu, Koasek, Nulhegan, and St. Francis-Sokoki Abenaki tribes? In a recent article from the Brattleboro Reformer, Vermont Abenaki leaders defended their claims to identity. Chief Don Stevens of the Nulhegan Band of the Coosuk in the Abenaki Nation stated, “”Part of this whole controversial or place-based issue is because people outside our place are coming to our home and telling us how we belong or how we don’t belong.” After reviewing the article, do you find the arguments presented by the Vermont Abenaki leaders convincing? Why or why not?