In what many consider to be an unprecedented historical event, ten avowed secessionists calling for Vermont to once again become an independent republic have been certified to run in the November 2, 2010 election.
Somewhat ironically, though appropriately so, the Vermont independence ticket is led by Vermont Native American gubernatorial candidate Dennis Steele. Steele, who is an Abenaki Indian, a U.S. Army veteran, and a Kirby businessman, is the founder and CEO of the successful international Internet based businesses, Chess Maniac and Radio Free Vermont. His running mate for Lt. Governor is Shelburne businessman and political activist Peter Garritano.
Seven Vermont Independenistas are running for the State Senate. They include Addison County business consultant Robert Wagner, Chittenden County attorney Terry Jeroloman, musician Stephen Laible, and security company CEO Mikey Van Gulden; Rutland County businessman William Cruikshank and political activist Dennis Morrisseau; and Washington County businessman Gaelan Brown. They are joined by House candidate James P. Merriam, a UVM student who lives in Montpelier.
What these candidates have in common is a commitment to bring home the Vermont National Guard troops from Afghanistan and Iraq now as well as a commitment to return Vermont to its status as an independent republic as it was between January 15, 1777 and March 4, 1791.
Few Vermonters realize that secession represents a return to their early nineteenth century roots when New England secessionists led the opposition to the 1803 Louisiana Purchase, the national embargo of 1807, and the War of 1812. New England secessionists also expressed their opposition to a military draft at the Hartford Convention of 1814. Abolitionists in New England urged northern states to disengage from the Union.
What the BP oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico reminds us of is that not only is the United States the largest, wealthiest, and most powerful empire in history, but it is also the most materialistic, the most environmentally destructive, and the most violent empire.
Vive Les Vermont Independenistas!
Imagine…Free Vermont
