Breaking Ground: The Rise of Native Representation in Montana
This article is part of a two-part series exploring the history and impact of Native leadership in Montana’s state government. Part 1 covers the early years and the foundation of Native representation, while Part 2 will highlight the modern era and the continued rise of Native lawmakers.
MONTANA—The Montana State Capitol stands as a symbol of governance, its marble halls echoing with the voices of those who have shaped the state’s laws for generations. Among those voices, Native legislators have fought tirelessly to ensure their communities are heard, their traditions respected, and their futures strengthened. Their journey through the political landscape of Montana has been one of resilience, vision, and unwavering commitment.
A Trailblazer Steps Forward
The story of Native leadership in Montana’s legislature begins in 1933, when Dolly Smith Cusker Akers, a citizen of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, shattered barriers by becoming the first Native American woman elected to any state legislature in the U.S. Akers’ election was not just a milestone for Native representation—it was a declaration that Native communities would have a voice in shaping their state’s policies. She paved the way for those who followed, proving that Native leaders belonged in the halls of power. At the time, Native representation in U.S. state legislatures was virtually nonexistent. Today, Native Americans hold 36 seats across state legislatures in the U.S., a testament to the progress made over the past century (Center for American Women and Politics).
Decades of Native Leadership: A Story of Resilience
The road to Native political representation in Montana has been marked by perseverance, advocacy, and an unwavering commitment to justice. With each decade, more leaders stepped forward, ensuring that Native voices were no longer sidelined but actively shaping the state’s laws and policies. What began as a fight for inclusion has grown into a powerful movement of lawmakers working to secure resources, protect traditions, and build a future where Native leadership is integral to Montana’s governance.
Breaking Barriers: The 1950s and 60s
Among the early pioneers in Native representation was Jean Turnage (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes), who later became the first Native American to serve as Chief Justice of the Montana Supreme Court. Before his judicial career, Turnage was a state legislator dedicated to advocating for tribal rights, natural resource policy, and self-governance, setting a precedent for future Native leaders in Montana politics.
The 1950s and 60s saw Edward J. Aubert of the Blackfeet Tribe take his seat in the House of Representatives, a time when Native lawmakers were a rarity in state government. Not long after, Percy DeWolfe, also Blackfeet, served in the Montana Senate from 1957 to 1973, ensuring tribal concerns had a voice in legislative discussions.
Expanding Influence: The 1970s
Expanding Influence: The 1970s
As the civil rights movement swept across the country, a new generation of Native leaders stepped forward, determined to make their mark in Montana’s legislature. The 1970s saw an expansion of Native representation, as leaders sought to influence policies that directly impacted their communities.
Building on the progress of earlier leaders, the 1970s marked a shift from breaking barriers to actively shaping policies that uplifted Native communities. Louise LaRose, representing the Northern Cheyenne Tribe, championed healthcare and education, setting a precedent for tribal-government relations. Her efforts coincided with Leo Kennerly Jr. (Blackfeet) and Bill Yellowtail (Crow), whose leadership in environmental and agricultural policy demonstrated the breadth of Native influence in the legislature. Another influential leader, Gary Kimble (Gros Ventre), who was elected in Missoula County with the support of U of M Native students, focused on labor, employment relations, and public health and welfare.
Strengthening Community Voices: The 1980s and 90s
By the 1980s and 90s, Native legislators had moved beyond breaking barriers—they were now shaping the legislative landscape. Their focus shifted to long-term policies that would secure resources, protect cultural heritage, and empower future generations to engage in governance.
The 1980s also saw the leadership of Roland F. Kennerly of the Blackfeet Tribe, who served in the Montana House of Representatives from 1981 to 1983, contributing to legislative efforts supporting tribal communities.
The 1980s and 90s introduced Angela Russell of the Crow Tribe, a fierce advocate for civil rights, and Floyd “Bob” Gervais (Blackfeet), George Heavy Runner (Blackfeet), and William “Bill” Whitehead (Fort Peck), all of whom brought the perspectives of their communities to the statehouse. Their work laid the groundwork for future legislators like Frank Smith (Fort Peck), who has spent decades advocating for economic development and cultural preservation, and Carol Juneau (Mandan and Hidatsa Nation), whose tireless efforts led to the creation of Indian Education for All, ensuring Native history and culture are included in public schools.
Laying the Groundwork for the Future
The work of early Native lawmakers was more than historic—it created lasting change. Their advocacy for tribal sovereignty, education, and representation paved the way for future leaders to continue shaping Montana’s legislature.
Today, their legacy lives on as Native leaders build upon their foundation, ensuring their voices remain a force in policymaking. Organizations like Western Native Voice support this continued progress by mobilizing communities and empowering new generations to engage in the political process.
As Native representation grows, the fight for sovereignty, equity, and self-determination remains as critical as ever, proving that the groundwork laid by past leaders is still shaping Montana’s future.