This month, we connected with Jonas Nichols, a member of the Turtle Mountain Chippewa and Colville tribes, who grew up in Columbia Falls, Montana. Known for his comedic talent, Jonas combines humor with impactful advocacy, using his platform to share skits that bring attention to important social issues. Recently, he’s been involved in Western Native Voice’s “Felons Can Vote” campaign, using his story to educate and inspire others about the rights and voices of formerly incarcerated individuals. As a creator and advocate, Jonas sheds light on the power of voting and the importance of community unity through his work and personal journey.
Tell us a bit about your background—your tribe, where you grew up, family, schools you attended, and what you’re doing now.
My name is Jonas Nichols. I’m a quarter Turtle Mountain Chippewa and a quarter Colville. I grew up in Columbia Falls, Montana, where I graduated high school and later attended the University of Montana. Currently, I’m a controls engineer at F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber.
What inspires your comedy skits about life in Montana?
I’ve always been fascinated with skit comedy, especially shows like Saturday Night Live, Mad TV, and In Living Color. Social media made it possible for me to start creating my own skits. Montana has gone through huge changes recently, bringing old beliefs into conflict with new ideas. I find that clash pretty comical, so I decided to make skits about it. My hope is that everyone can take a step back, relax, laugh, and stop taking things too seriously. Life is too short.
What has been the most rewarding or unexpected response you’ve received from your social media audience?
The most rewarding response I get is from people who genuinely enjoy my skits and take the time to leave thankful comments. That’s what keeps me going.
You’ve done impactful work with Western Native Voice’s ‘Felons Can Vote’ campaign—what motivated you to share that message?
The message is simple: Felons CAN vote! I always thought that once you became a felon, you lost your right to vote. Life as a felon comes with a whole new set of rules, and these rules can change depending on who and what we vote for. It’s essential for felons to exercise their right to vote and have a say in their future.
How did it feel to cast your first vote, especially after recently learning you could vote?
At first, learning that felons could vote was confusing because I’d never looked into what I believed in. But now, tools like the Ballot Builder on Western Native Voice’s website make it easier than ever. Casting my vote felt like an accomplishment, like I was finally part of something bigger.
You’ve faced challenges in your journey. How have you pushed through them?
I’ve faced my share of obstacles, but I see each one as a learning experience that helps me become a better person. No one is perfect, and we all have the power to change.
How do you balance humor with serious messages, like voting rights for felons?
It can be a challenge, but it all depends on how fans see you. I keep my comedy neutral, which shows my fans that I’m not pushing any specific belief on them. My message is simple: vote for who and what you believe in.
How have people with similar experiences responded to your skits and story? Any memorable feedback?
I’ve connected with many amazing people who have been through similar life paths. These interactions remind me of how big the world is and that we’re never truly alone in our struggles.
What changes would you most like to see in your community, and how would they make a difference?
The main change I want to see is for people to respect and love each other. People have become so divided, but we’re all Americans and should lift each other up, not alienate one another.
If you could change one thing about how society views people with felony convictions, what would it be?
I’d want society to see us as people, not just labels because of past mistakes.
What’s next for you—any new projects or directions in comedy or advocacy?
I’m working on a new project that I hope will be groundbreaking. It’s a surprise, though, so no spoilers for now!
You can follow and support Jonas on TikTok and Instagram at @jonas.rydell.n!