Resolution Recognizing Native American Stewardship.
Summary
House Joint Resolution 33 is a ceremonial resolution recognizing Native American stewardship of the land in Connecticut. It states that all land in Connecticut was once Native American territory, acknowledges that the University of Connecticut sits on Native American land, and asks the General Assembly to pause and recognize the Mohegan, Mashantucket Pequot, Eastern Pequot, Schaghticoke, Golden Hill Paugussett, Nipmuc, and Lenape Peoples for their long-standing stewardship, strength, and resilience.
The resolution also frames this acknowledgment as part of a broader understanding of colonialism and the state’s present-day responsibilities. It expressly provides that the resolution has no legal or administrative effect and is not intended to alter any proceeding, procedure, or statute. As a result, the bill does not change substantive state law, but it does create an official legislative statement of recognition and respect.
Impact
HJ 33 would not amend the Connecticut General Statutes or create enforceable rights or duties. Its practical effect is symbolic: it authorizes the General Assembly to formally acknowledge Native American land stewardship and the historical presence of Indigenous peoples in Connecticut, while expressly disclaiming any legal or administrative impact. The resolution may be used as an official statement of state recognition in public, educational, or ceremonial contexts, but it does not affect land claims, agency actions, or court proceedings.
Sentiment
The available vote history suggests the resolution was generally well received in committee, with the Government Administration and Elections Committee reporting a joint favorable vote of 14-5. The text itself is affirming and commemorative, indicating support for recognizing Native American history and stewardship. The absence of committee transcript debate limits insight into detailed arguments, but the vote split suggests there was some disagreement even though the measure advanced with a clear majority.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely the symbolic and political nature of the resolution. Supporters appear to favor an official acknowledgment of Indigenous stewardship and colonial history, while opponents may object to the resolution’s framing of colonialism, its implications for present-day responsibilities, or the use of legislative time for a nonbinding statement. Because the resolution explicitly disclaims legal effect, any disagreement is more likely about message, historical interpretation, and the appropriateness of formal land acknowledgment than about policy implementation or legal consequences.
Resolution Rescinding Previous Applications Of The General Assembly That Called For An Article V Convention To Propose Amendments To The Constitution Of The United States And Directing Transmission Of Such Resolution To Congress For Printing In The Congressional Record.