ODANAK, Quebec (WCAX) - Abenaki leaders in Quebec on Friday presented new genealogical research they say disproves claims of Abenaki heritage among prominent tribal leaders in Vermont and New Hampshire.

Using genealogy, the research commissioned by the Abenaki of Odanak and W8linak refuels a years-long debate claiming Vermont tribes are “race shifting” and cannot prove any ties to Abenaki heritage.

Nestled on more than 1,700 acres of land in Quebec are more than 2,000 members of the Abenaki of Odanak, embracing their Indigenous roots.

“The people here in this community and in our nation -- our blood is strong,” said Chief Rick O’Bomsawin.

But O’Bomsawin said the blood of Vermont Abenakis is not strong. On Friday, he and other tribal leaders presented new information they say disproves

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