Join Western Native Voice for this FREE leadership & advocacy conference in Rocky Boy! We’re bringing an interactive, high-energy one-day conference to Rocky Boy on April 22nd! Building Bridges, Building Power: A Day of Leadership & Change is your chance to learn, lead, and take action through powerful workshops and networking opportunities. What to Expect: Inspiring speakers & hands-on workshops Leadership & advocacy skill-building Connect with change makers & build your network Take action & make an impact in your community FREE for Western Native Voice members! Not a member yet? Sign up now for free: westernnativevoice.org/join Reserve your spot – space is limited! https://tinyurl.com/yz85n43t Let’s build power, create change, and strengthen our Native American communities together. See you there!
MONTANA — In a historic development, the Montana Senate approved Senate Bill 224 on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, bringing the state one step closer to officially recognizing Indigenous Peoples Day. Sponsored by Sen. Shane Morigeau, a member of the Montana American Indian Caucus, the bill’s passage marks unprecedented progress for the initiative.
Senate Bill 224 proposes celebrating Indigenous Peoples Day on the second Monday in October, alongside Columbus Day, giving Montanans the option to observe one or both holidays. This approach ensures the celebration of our state’s complete history, including Columbus Day, while honoring Indigenous cultures and histories.
The bill aims to celebrate the fact that everyone is indigenous to somewhere, promoting a broader sense of inclusivity and connection. By honoring Indigenous Peoples Day, the legislation encourages recognition of diverse backgrounds and shared histories, while also providing an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the contributions of Native communities.
A coalition including Western Native Voice, Indigenous Peoples Day Montana, and the Northern Plains Resource Center has been working on the bill since 2022 with Sen. Morigeau and Sen. Susan Webber in an effort to secure its passage during the 2025 legislative session. Their collaboration highlights the importance of community-driven advocacy and a unified approach to legislative change.
The bill passed the Senate with a strong bipartisan vote of 47-3. The legislation now moves to the Montana House of Representatives for further consideration.
Supporters of the bill see this as a significant move toward greater recognition of Indigenous heritage and contributions in Montana.
If the House approves the bill, Montana will join a growing number of states—currently over 20—that have adopted Indigenous Peoples Day, signaling a broader shift toward inclusivity and acknowledgment of Native histories and cultures.
Montanans are encouraged to track Senate Bill 224 as it moves through the House. You can testify or leave a public comment to show your support for Indigenous Peoples Day. Stay connected with Western Native Voice for updates and ways to get involved!
Strengthening the Voice: The Modern Era of American Indian 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 highlights the modern era and the continued rise of Native lawmakers.
MONTANA—The 21st century has seen a dramatic increase in Native representation in Montana’s government. Once a struggle for inclusion, Native leadership has transformed into a force that shapes state policies, advances Native issues, and asserts the power of Native communities.
A Growing Presence in the Legislature
Native lawmakers in Montana have steadily gained ground, bringing new voices to the statehouse each election cycle. This shift from advocacy to leadership has secured lasting policy changes in education, economic development, and public safety. Carolyn Pease-Lopez (Northern Cheyenne Tribe), Rae Peppers (Crow Tribe), and G. Bruce Meyers (Rocky Boy Tribe) helped secure funding for tribal programs, while Jason Small (Northern Cheyenne Tribe) and Shane Morigeau (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes) have led efforts in public safety, environmental policy, and voting rights.
With Native Americans making up about 6.7% of Montana’s population (Montana Legislature Statistics) and 12 Native legislators currently serving, Montana has one of the highest rates of Native representation in the country. The Montana American Indian Caucus plays a critical role in ensuring Native issues remain at the forefront of legislative discussions.
The Role of Western Native Voice in Mobilizing Change
Organizations like Western Native Voice have helped mobilize Native communities, ensuring voter engagement translates into real political influence. Through advocacy training and grassroots organizing, Western Native Voice works alongside legislators to advance tribal sovereignty, healthcare, and economic development.
A New Generation of Advocates
A new wave of Native lawmakers is building on past successes while tackling urgent issues. They are taking leadership roles in education, sovereignty, public safety, and voter protections.
Education and Healthcare
Jade Bahr (Crow Tribe) has focused on education equity, ensuring Native students receive the support they need. Susan Webber (Blackfeet) has worked to address disparities in healthcare access and public health policy. Jonathan Windy Boy (Rocky Boy) has been a champion for Native language preservation and cultural education, pushing for policies that fund language programs and protect Indigenous identity. Donavan Hawk (Crow Tribe) has focused on labor rights, job training, and economic opportunities for working-class families.
Tribal Sovereignty and Governance
Newly elected legislators such as Thedis Crowe (Blackfeet), Shelly Fyant (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes), and Jacinda Morigeau (Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes) are championing policies that strengthen tribal self-governance and increase Native representation in state decision-making. Tyson Running Wolf (Blackfeet) continues to be a strong advocate for tribal sovereignty and economic self-sufficiency, working on policies that support energy development and infrastructure improvements in tribal communities.
Land, Community, and Voting Rights
Environmental protection, public safety, and voting access remain top priorities. Native legislators are fighting for stronger MMIP protections, land stewardship, and expanded voting access to ensure Native voices shape Montana’s future.
The Road Ahead
With each election, Native leaders expand their influence, ensuring policies reflect their communities’ needs. While progress continues, challenges remain in healthcare, education reform, language preservation, and MMIP protections.
The momentum for change has never been stronger.Western Native Voice will continue empowering communities to sustain this progress. Native leaders are no longer just advocating for a seat at the table—they are redefining the conversation and shaping Montana’s future.
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.
HELENA, Mont.—The Montana State Capitol stood against a backdrop of freezing morning air as more than 40 Western Native Voice members and youth gathered on its steps. They had come from all across the state—some from urban centers, others from tribal communities miles away—bundled in heavy coats and scarves, rubbing their hands together for warmth. For many, this was a familiar experience, another step in ongoing advocacy work. But for others, this was their first time setting foot in the halls of the legislature, their first time witnessing Montana’s government in action.
They were here for Western Native Voice’s Lobby Days, a two-day event dedicated to connecting Native communities with lawmakers, ensuring that their voices were heard on the policies that shape their daily lives.
A Seat at the Table
Inside the Capitol, attendees settled into committee hearings, watching as lawmakers debated critical issues. Among them was Senate Bill 107, introduced by Senator Susan Webber, which seeks to integrate human trafficking prevention education into Montana’s public schools.
The need for such legislation is urgent. According to the Montana Department of Justice, documented human trafficking cases in the state have surged by 1,900% in less than a decade, rising from just seven cases in 2015 to 143 in 2023.
Western Native Voice members and youth from the Expanding Horizons program filled the hearing room, offering testimony, listening intently, and taking notes. Some had never witnessed a legislative session before. Others had testified in the past and knew the process well. Each presence in the room carried weight, reinforcing that Native voices belong in these discussions—not as an afterthought, but as active participants shaping Montana’s policies.
Beyond the Chamber Doors
Throughout the two-day event, members attended House floor debates and votes, engaging with legislators and observing key discussions on Medicaid, education, and public safety. In between sessions, they walked the marble halls, meeting elected officials and taking in the grandeur of the Capitol.
For first-time attendees, there was an undeniable feeling of stepping into something larger than themselves. Conversations about policy shifted into discussions about community organizing, leadership, and the power of showing up.
A highlight of the event was the Medicaid rally in the Capitol Rotunda on January 21, where Western Native Voice members stood alongside other advocates calling for expanded healthcare protections. Their presence was a reminder that access to healthcare is more than a talking point—it’s a daily reality for Native families, elders, and future generations.
Smudging at the Capitol
As the rally concluded, the scent of burning sage filled the Rotunda—a smudging ceremony, made possible through Senator Webber’s advocacy for the recognition of cultural practices within the Capitol.
For many attendees, the moment was deeply personal. It wasn’t just about policy or legislation; it was about representation, visibility, and the affirmation that their traditions belong in Montana’s most powerful spaces. The same spaces where laws are passed, where decisions are made, and where history is written.
Carrying the Work Forward
As Western Native Voice members stepped back out into the cold and prepared for their journeys home, the conversations didn’t stop. In the Capitol hallways, in coffee shops, and in cars heading back across the state, discussions continued—about the bills they had followed, the meetings they had sat in, and the impact they could have beyond these two days in Helena.
For the first-timers, the experience had been eye-opening. For the seasoned advocates, it was a reminder that the work continues. The connections made, the lessons learned, and the voices that had filled the chambers would not fade once the event ended.
By the time the last car pulled away from Helena, it was clear: this wasn’t just a visit to the Capitol. It was a commitment to ensuring that Native voices remain a force in Montana’s future.
January 21
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Join Western Native Voice in Helena for Lobbying Days! This two day event will give you the opportunity to view the legislative process up close. This includes tours of the Capitol Building, watching committee hearings from in the room, viewing floor sessions from the gallery, plus a rally in the historic rotunda.
We only have limited spots for this unique event, so sign up quickly to ensure your place!
Join Western Native Voice in Helena for our Lobbying Days. This two day event will allow you an up close experience in the legislative process. There will be opportunities to meet sitting legislators, tour the capitol building, watch committee hearings, observe floor sessions, and more! Join us today.
MONTANA—While general elections often take center stage, the work of engaging Native communities in the political process is crucial year-round, not just during presidential election years. Western Native Voice is committed to ensuring that the momentum built during high-profile elections continues between presidential election years, focusing on the importance of ongoing voter registration and civic engagement. These efforts are essential to ensuring long-term political representation and influence in Montana.
In Montana, there are currently over 700,000 registered voters, with Native Americans making up a significant part of that electorate. Nationally, there are more than 200 million registered voters, but Native communities still face barriers to full political participation. It is important for everyone—especially young people—to stay informed and engaged, as every vote helps shape the future of our communities.
Voter registration, while often emphasized during election cycles, remains critical throughout the years leading up to the next presidential election. People move, change addresses, and become eligible to vote each year. Western Native Voice continues to provide outreach to ensure voters remain registered and informed. By maintaining up-to-date voter rolls, the organization helps ensure that Native communities remain politically engaged, regardless of the election year. Keeping voter registration current is a key element in sustaining robust political participation and fostering continued civic engagement.
However, voter registration is just the beginning. Western Native Voice recognizes that civic engagement must extend beyond Election Day. While many may focus on voting during presidential elections, political engagement should be an ongoing effort. The organization works year-round to ensure that Native voters are not only registered but also equipped to advocate for their communities. This includes staying informed about legislative changes, participating in local meetings, and engaging with lawmakers to address the issues that matter most—whether it’s healthcare, education, or tribal sovereignty.
Between presidential election years, Western Native Voice focuses on ensuring that Native voices continue to be heard in the political process. The organization provides resources to help individuals track legislative actions, update their voter information, and ensure they have access to the tools needed to participate fully in local, state, and national decision-making. These ongoing efforts help build a politically active and informed electorate that can push for change and hold elected officials accountable year after year.
For young people, now is the time to get involved. Whether it’s registering to vote, participating in local government meetings, or organizing in your community, there are many ways to contribute. You have the power to help shape the policies that will affect your future—whether it’s climate change, education reform, or healthcare access. Civic engagement doesn’t stop once the election results are in; it’s a continuous process that helps to shape policy, influence government decisions, and ensure that Native communities remain at the forefront of the political conversation.
Western Native Voice encourages Native community members to actively engage in advocacy efforts—whether through contacting their representatives, attending town hall meetings, or participating in discussions about legislative issues that affect their lives. This kind of ongoing involvement ensures that Native voices are not just heard during election years but are integral to shaping policies in between them.
As Western Native Voice looks toward the 2025 legislative session, the organization remains focused on empowering Native voters and strengthening their role in Montana’s political landscape. The work of civic engagement requires consistent, year-round effort, but it is an effort that brings lasting change. By ensuring that Native communities stay involved and informed, Western Native Voice helps create a powerful and unified presence that can influence the political direction of the state for years to come.
Through its ongoing focus on voter registration and civic engagement, Western Native Voice is ensuring that Native Americans continue to have a strong voice in Montana’s political decision-making—through presidential election years and beyond.
MONTANA—Native American youth represent a powerful force shaping the future of Native communities. With Native youth being the fastest-growing demographic in the U.S., making up over 20% of the Native population under 18, investing in their leadership is more urgent than ever. Programs like Expanding Horizons are central to this mission, ensuring these young leaders are ready to advocate for policies that resonate with their communities and secure their futures.
What’s Next: Navigating Challenges and Embracing Opportunity
Native youth face many challenges, from education and healthcare access to tribal sovereignty and the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP) crisis. However, the potential for transformation is immense. Empowering Native youth with leadership tools allows them to not only transform their futures but also change the trajectory of their communities. Programs like Expanding Horizons provide the necessary platform to develop the next generation of Native leaders.
Impact: Preparing the Leaders of Tomorrow
Through initiatives such as the Youth Summer Academy, Western Native Voice is helping Native students across Montana develop leadership, civic engagement, and advocacy skills. The academy is an immersive experience that combines academic rigor with cultural and political education. Students gain lessons in leadership, writing, and public speaking, alongside experiences that connect them to their heritage, like visiting Yellowstone National Park. This holistic approach ensures students are ready to navigate the modern political landscape while staying connected to their roots.
The Investment: Building Stronger Communities
The success of Expanding Horizons extends beyond summer programs. Through the Youth Board, students contribute to shaping the organization’s year-round mission, offering guidance on outreach, policy advocacy, and public campaigns. This hands-on involvement empowers youth to make impactful decisions while gaining real-world leadership experience.
Today’s young leaders are already influencing policies at local, state, and national levels, proving that Native youth are not only the future—they are a crucial part of the present.
The Future: Leadership for a Stronger Tomorrow
Investing in Native youth is an investment in the long-term health of tribal nations. These young leaders will take the reins of advocating for policies around healthcare, justice, and education—issues often overlooked in broader political discourse. Their efforts will ensure Native communities are not only represented but are actively shaping the decisions that impact them.
Final Thoughts: Securing the Future of Native Communities
Through Expanding Horizons, Western Native Voice is positioning Native youth to lead with strength, advocating for justice, preserving cultural heritage, and strengthening the sovereignty of Native nations. The future of Native communities depends on the continued empowerment of these youth leaders, ensuring that their communities remain politically and culturally strong for generations to come.
MONTANA—As the state prepares for the 2025 legislative session, attention is turning to the key issues that will affect Native communities across the state. Advocacy groups, including Western Native Voice, are already laying the groundwork to ensure that Native American voices are heard and that the legislative process remains accessible to all Native people.
At Western Native Voice, the organization’s four key programs—education, civic engagement, leadership development, and public advocacy—are essential to advocating for Native communities and ensuring the legislature addresses their needs. Education provides communities with the tools to navigate the legislative process, while civic engagement encourages participation beyond Election Day. These efforts help make the legislative process more accessible and transparent to Native people.
Through programs like the Youth Summer Academy, leadership development trains the next generation of Native leaders to advocate for their communities. Public advocacy ensures that Native communities remain at the forefront of critical issues, including healthcare, Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP), reproductive health, and tribal sovereignty.
Western Native Voice recently surveyed its members to determine the top priorities heading into the 2025 legislative session. The results revealed strong support for several key issues, including justice system reform. Seventy percent of respondents support automatic voter registration, and 87% favor same-day voter registration. The survey also revealed widespread concern about the justice system, with many viewing it as unfair. The top three issues identified by members were healthcare, MMIP, and reproductive health.
A Western Native Voice staffer commented, “Our members are demanding action on issues that directly impact Native communities. From healthcare to the justice system, these concerns cannot be ignored. It’s crucial that we hold our elected representatives accountable and ensure they are working for the betterment of Native people, not just during election time but throughout their terms in office.”
The 2025 legislative session provides an opportunity for lawmakers to address these pressing issues. Western Native Voice is committed to ensuring that Native communities are not only represented but that their voices are heard in a way that leads to real, substantive change. By engaging with lawmakers and holding them accountable, Western Native Voice will continue to advocate for policies that promote healthcare access, address the MMIP crisis, improve reproductive health, and protect tribal sovereignty.
A key issue that continues to demand attention is Medicaid expansion and its importance to Native communities and healthcare facilities, which rely on Medicaid funding to operate. Expanding Medicaid would provide much-needed support to healthcare providers who serve Native populations, ensuring access to vital services that are critical for the health and well-being of Native individuals and families.
As Montana’s Native communities move forward in advocating for fair representation and equitable policies, Western Native Voice remains committed to making the state legislature a place where Native voices are not just heard but are influential in shaping the future of the state.
One way to become involved in the upcoming legislative session is by answering calls to action. You can start by attending meetings, testifying at hearings, or emailing your representatives to express your concerns and priorities. Every voice matters, and by staying engaged, Native communities can ensure that their issues are front and center as lawmakers make critical decisions.
The 2024 election saw 10 new Native American representatives elected to Montana’s state House and Senate, including Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, Sen. Jacinda Morigeau, Rep. Thedis Crowe, Rep. Tyson Running Wolf, Rep. Frank Smith, Rep. Mike Fox, Rep. Jade Sooktis, Rep. Shelly Fyant, Rep. Donavon Hawk, and Rep. Sidney Fitzpatrick. They will join Senator Susan Webber and Senator Shane Morigeau, bringing the total number of Native American representatives to 12. While this marks a significant step forward, it also highlights the need to hold these leaders accountable to their communities.
