Senate candidates discuss sovereignty, education at Wabanaki forum

Democratic U.S. Senate candidates David Costello and Graham Platner discussed tribal sovereignty and education during a forum hosted by the Wabanaki Alliance on April 16 at Indian Island, home of the Penobscot Nation, according to The Maine Campus. The event included questions on environmental justice, regulation and legislative approaches affecting Wabanaki nations. 

Both candidates said gaps remain in education about Indigenous history and issues. Costello said the federal government should invest more in public education and emphasized teaching Indigenous history at an early age. Platner said political engagement among young people is key to meaningful change. The forum also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen relationships between tribal nations and institutions, including agreements between the Penobscot Nation and the University of Maine, according to The Maine Campus.