Join Western Native Voice on August 21, 2024, for a fun night of Bingo at the Cultural Center in Brockton.
PRIZES | DRAWINGS| MEAL
5 pm – Doors Open/Free meal
Everyone 18+ is invited to attend.
Location: Cultural Center in Brockton, MT
RSVP HERE: https://secure.everyaction.com/HNDbcYvxu0-Ci3UWmoG0Qg2
Join Western Native Voice for a fun night of Bingo at Fort Kipp Community Hall.
PRIZES | DRAWINGS| MEAL
5 pm – Doors Open/Free meal
6 pm – Bingo Starts
Everyone 18+ is invited to attend.
Location: Fort Kipp Community Hall
RSVP HERE: https://secure.everyaction.com/p2eDlI_QtECQk0j5-q3z_A2
Western Native Voice has recently demonstrated remarkable dedication and tireless effort in empowering Native communities across Montana through a series of successful events in July. From organizing a community lunch at South Park to hosting clothing drives and engaging Bingo nights in multiple locations, Western Native Voice’s Billings Field Team has been at the forefront of fostering community spirit, promoting civic engagement, and building strong relationships within Native communities.
Community Lunch at South Park
On July 12, Western Native Voice hosted a community lunch at South Park in Billings, Montana. This event was more than just a meal; it was an opportunity to bring community members together, share resources, and strengthen bonds. Attendees enjoyed Indian tacos, and the event served as a platform for the organization to introduce its mission and initiatives. The lunch highlighted the importance of community support and engagement, setting the stage for future events aimed at empowering Native voices and fostering deeper relationships.
Clothing Drive: Supporting the Community
On July 26, Western Native Voice organized a clothing drive at South Park, continuing on July 27 at North Park. The clothing drive was a testament to the organization’s commitment to addressing the immediate needs of the community. By providing essential clothing items to families and individuals, Western Native Voice not only offered practical support but also reinforced the message of solidarity and care within Native communities. “We had an amazing turnout. I’m happy with what the Billings team accomplished. They worked hard and got over 50 voter registrations,” said Celisa Jefferson from Western Native Voice’s field team.
Bingo Nights: Fun, Prizes, and Civic Engagement
In addition to the lunch and clothing drives, Western Native Voice hosted a series of Bingo events in Wolf Point, Great Falls, Billings, and Browning. These events brought together community members for evenings filled with fun, prizes, and important conversations about civic engagement. The Bingo nights were more than just social gatherings; they served as platforms for promoting voter registration and participation, emphasizing the crucial role of the Native vote in the upcoming 2024 election. Voter registration is central to Western Native Voice’s mission, and these events played a key role in achieving that goal.
Research has shown that community events can significantly increase voter turnout in participating precincts (J-PAL). Each Bingo event saw enthusiastic participation, with attendees becoming more excited and engaged in the electoral process and the upcoming election. The Bingo nights in Wolf Point, Great Falls, and Browning further highlighted the collective effort to ensure Native voices are heard in the democratic process.
Dedication to Empowerment, Community, and Relationship Building
These events underscore the hard work and dedication of Western Native Voice’s Billings Field Team, who tirelessly work to register Native Americans in Montana to vote and promote civic engagement. Their efforts reflect a deep commitment to empowering Native communities, fostering a sense of unity, and ensuring that Native voices are represented and heard. The focus on community, relationship building, and giving back has been central to their success.
Western Native Voice’s recent initiatives demonstrate the power of community-driven efforts and the positive impact of dedicated advocacy. Through lunches, clothing drives, and engaging events like Bingo nights, the organization continues to inspire and mobilize Native communities across Montana, paving the way for a more inclusive and representative democratic process. By prioritizing community, building strong relationships, and giving back, Western Native Voice is making a lasting difference in the lives of Native Americans in Montana.
This month, Western Native Voice has been engaging Native American communities across Montana through a series of Voter Registration Bingo events. These events, held in Wolf Point, Billings, Great Falls, and Browning, have been well attended, demonstrating a strong community interest in civic engagement and the upcoming elections.
The Voter Registration Bingo events are part of Western Native Voice’s broader efforts to mobilize Native American voters and ensure their voices are heard in the 2024 elections. By combining fun and informative activities, the organization aims to educate attendees about the importance of voting and what is at stake for Indian Country in the upcoming election cycle.
Each event began with an overview of the critical issues facing Native American communities in 2024. Western Native Voice staff highlighted the impact of various policies on healthcare, education, and tribal sovereignty. They emphasized how voting is a powerful tool for influencing these policies and ensuring that the needs of Native communities are addressed.
Attendees were also informed about the practical aspects of voting, including how to register, where to vote, and the identification requirements for voting in Montana. Western Native Voice provided resources and assistance to help participants complete their voter registration forms on-site, making the process as accessible as possible.
“These bingo events are more than just a game,” said a Western Native Voice staff member. “They are an opportunity for us to come together, learn, and take action to protect our rights and our future.”
In addition to voter registration, the events also focused on the importance of community involvement and membership in Western Native Voice. Attendees were encouraged to join the organization, which is open to everyone, including allies of Native communities. Membership provides a platform for individuals to stay informed about issues affecting Native Americans and to participate in advocacy efforts.
The turnout at each event was a testament to the community’s commitment to civic engagement. In Wolf Point, Billings, Great Falls, and Browning, the rooms were filled with enthusiastic participants who were eager to learn and take action. The interactive nature of bingo made the events enjoyable and engaging, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose among attendees.
Western Native Voice’s efforts to increase voter registration and participation are crucial, especially given the historical and ongoing challenges that Native American voters face. By hosting these Voter Registration Bingo events, the organization is making a significant impact on voter turnout and ensuring that Native American voices are represented in the democratic process.
As the 2024 elections approach, Western Native Voice remains dedicated to empowering Native communities through education, engagement, leadership development, and public advocacy. The success of the Voter Registration Bingo events is a positive step towards a more inclusive and representative electoral process in Montana.
BILLINGS, Mont. — On the evening of July 25, 2024, Western Native Voice hosted a special movie night as part of their Expanding Horizons youth program, offering a free screening of the animated film Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron at the historic Babcock Theatre in Billings. The event drew a diverse crowd of families, providing an opportunity for the nonprofit to connect with the community and promote its mission of fostering unity and relationship building.
The screening of Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron, a film that celebrates freedom, resilience, and the spirit of the West, was chosen for its thematic resonance with Native American values and heritage. Western Native Voice’s Expanding Horizons used this event to highlight their commitment to education, civic engagement, and leadership development.
Research supports the importance of engaging young people in community events and activities. Programs that foster connectedness and provide opportunities for youth to engage with pro-social adults are shown to enhance their development. Authentic youth engagement helps build self-esteem, leadership, advocacy, and professional development skills while increasing their influence and personal stake in the community (Youth.gov).
Expanding Horizons aims to empower Native American youth to lead with purpose and identity. The program is student-driven and steered by Western Native Voice, bringing together middle school and high school students to champion the preservation of tribal identity and culture and foster relationships between tribal and urban Native Americans. The movie night served as an engaging platform to reach out to families and young people, reinforcing the message that every voice matters. Through family-oriented events like these, Expanding Horizons informs and empowers Native youth about the importance of civic participation.
The event also emphasized the organization’s civic engagement efforts, which focus on ensuring that Native American voices are heard and represented in the political process. By bringing the community together for a free, family-friendly event, Western Native Voice demonstrated their dedication to fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose.
Leadership development is another cornerstone of Western Native Voice’s mission. The Expanding Horizons program, under which the movie night was organized, aims to cultivate the next generation of Native leaders. Events like these provide an opportunity for families to come together, for young people to learn, grow, and be inspired to take on leadership roles within their communities.
The family-centric nature of the movie night created an inviting atmosphere where community members could connect, share experiences, and build stronger relationships. Western Native Voice continues to prioritize events that bring families together, reinforcing the importance of community, unity, and collective growth.
MISSOULA, Mont. — On the evening of July 17, 2024, the indie rock band Portugal. The Man, renowned not just for their music but also their social activism, welcomed Western Native Voice to share their stage at a packed concert in Missoula. This unique collaboration provided an invaluable platform for the nonprofit organization to advocate for Native American voter registration and emphasize the importance of civic engagement within Native communities.
Before the band began their performance, Eric Howk from Portugal. The Man took a moment to introduce Western Native Voice to the enthusiastic audience. The staff of Western Native Voice stepped forward, taking the opportunity to address a crucial issue: voter registration among Native Americans in Montana.
“Tonight, we stand before you to highlight a significant concern,” began one of the staffers. “There are more than 37,000 Native Americans in Montana who are not registered to vote.”
For the Native-led nonprofit, voting is more than a civic duty. It’s a way to honor their ancestors and shape the future of their communities. For Western Native Voice, voting is a Native tradition.
Another staff member recounted a personal story, resonating deeply with the audience. “My grandmother was born before Native Americans became U.S. citizens or had the right to vote. This year marks the 100th anniversary of Native American citizenship, a milestone that reminds us of the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors. It is our responsibility to continue their legacy by voting.”
Western Native Voice’s mission is multifaceted, encompassing education, civic engagement, leadership development, and public advocacy. Through their education initiatives, they inform communities about the significance of voting and staying informed about legislative changes. Their civic engagement efforts ensure that every voice is heard, and their leadership development programs cultivate the next generation of Native leaders. Public advocacy is at the heart of their mission, championing the rights and interests of Native people at every level of government.
The opportunity to speak at the concert underscored the importance of community and membership within Western Native Voice. “We invite you all to join us,” they urged the audience. “Membership in Western Native Voice is open to everyone, including allies of Native communities. Together, we can make a difference.”
Portugal. The Man’s decision to highlight Western Native Voice aligns with their ongoing efforts to support various social causes. By offering their stage to the nonprofit, the band provided a powerful platform to amplify a critical message. As the staffers concluded their address, the band members expressed their solidarity, further energizing the crowd.
The concert not only entertained but also enlightened, leaving attendees with a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing Native Americans in Montana. The collaboration between Portugal. The Man and Western Native Voice exemplifies the impact that music and activism can have when united for a common cause.
As the music filled the air, the message was clear: voting is a powerful tradition, a right hard-won and essential to uphold. Western Native Voice’s appearance on stage with Portugal. The Man in Missoula was more than a moment; it was a movement, one step closer to ensuring every Native American in Montana has a voice in the democratic process.
Billings, MT — Western Native Voice is hosting a two-day clothing giveaway at South Park on July 26 and North Park on July 27, engaging the community and emphasizing the importance of voting in the upcoming 2024 election. The event aims to provide essential clothing items to those in need while fostering a sense of civic responsibility.
A field organizer for Western Native Voice addressed attendees, emphasizing the critical role of voting. “Our mission is to empower Native Americans through community engagement and advocacy,” they said. “Events like these bring us together, reminding us of our shared responsibilities and the power of our collective voice.”
This clothing giveaway aligns with Western Native Voice’s broader mission, which includes four key programs: Education, Civic Engagement, Leadership Development, and Public Advocacy. Each program aims to strengthen the political influence and social fabric of Native communities in Montana.
Education
The clothing giveaway directly supports Western Native Voice’s Education program by creating opportunities for informal education about voting and civic participation. As attendees receive clothing, they are also provided with information about the upcoming 2024 election and the importance of voting. Field organizers are on-site to help register new voters and answer questions, ensuring that community members are informed and prepared to participate in the electoral process. According to the National Congress of American Indians, only 66 percent of eligible Native American voters are registered to vote, compared to 74 percent of the general population (National Congress of American Indians, 2023). This event aims to bridge that gap by increasing voter registration rates within the community.
Civic Engagement
By involving community members in the organization and execution of the clothing giveaway, Western Native Voice fosters civic engagement and encourages local involvement. Volunteers and organizers take on responsibilities that develop their abilities to lead and manage community-focused initiatives. This hands-on experience is vital for cultivating future leaders who can advocate for their communities and drive positive change. The event also provides a mentoring environment where experienced leaders can guide and support emerging ones.
Leadership Development
The clothing giveaway serves as a practical demonstration of the needs within the community, highlighting issues such as poverty and access to essential resources. By addressing these needs directly, Western Native Voice can better advocate for policy changes that support the well-being of Native American communities. The event provides a platform to discuss broader policy issues with attendees, gather their input, and mobilize collective efforts to push for systemic changes at local and state levels. This grassroots engagement is crucial for informing the organization’s advocacy efforts and ensuring they reflect the community’s priorities.
Public Advocacy
Events like the clothing giveaway are central to Western Native Voice’s Public Advocacy program. They bring people together, foster a sense of solidarity, and build a stronger, more united community. By addressing immediate needs and creating opportunities for civic engagement, these events help to empower individuals and encourage collective action. The giveaway also serves as a networking opportunity, connecting community members with each other and with resources that can support their ongoing involvement in local issues. This strengthens the overall social fabric and ensures that the community is prepared to mobilize around important causes.
A Western Native Voice staffer highlighted the significance of such community events. “Providing essential items like clothing helps address immediate needs while also creating opportunities for meaningful conversations about civic engagement. It reinforces our commitment to the community and our mission to foster an environment where every voice matters.”
Western Native Voice’s Billings Field Team has set an ambitious goal of registering 3,000 people in Billings ahead of the 2024 election and has been actively engaging with the community through various events across the city. As the 2024 election approaches, Western Native Voice is ramping up efforts to ensure that every eligible voter is registered and ready to cast their ballot. The clothing giveaway serves as a reminder of the power of community and the importance of every vote.
Long-Term Goals for Community Engagement and Voter Participation
Western Native Voice’s long-term goals include achieving consistently high voter turnout among Native Americans and ensuring their voices are heard in every election. The organization plans to expand civic education programs, strengthen leadership development, enhance policy advocacy, foster sustainable community organizing, and increase voter registration and turnout.
“Our vision is to create a future where Native American communities are not only participating in elections but are also leading the way in shaping policies that affect their lives,” said a Western Native Voice staffer.
Join Western Native Voice for a Family Fun Day!
Date: August 8, 2024
Time: 11 AM – 4 PM
Location: Rose Park in Billings, MT
Join us on August 8, 2024, from 11 AM to 4 PM at Rose Park for a day filled with fun and excitement for the whole family!
Bring the whole family down for a day of fun and excitement.
Here are some of the highlights:
Free Food: Enjoy a variety of delicious treats on us!
Bouncy House: Let the kids bounce around and have a blast.
Mechanical Bull: Test your rodeo skills and see how long you can ride!
Face Painting: Get creative with colorful face art.
Games: Participate in fun games.
And Much More!
Don’t miss out on this amazing event. Bring your family and friends for a day of unforgettable fun at Rose Park!
We can’t wait to see you there!
Western Native Voice’s field team will be at Billings First Church Nonprofit Yard Sale ready to connect with you and share more about our work. Stop by, say hi, and get ready to:
Register to vote
Learn about our upcoming events
Explore ways to get involved in your community
Dates: Saturday, July 20 & Sunday, July 21
Time: Saturday from 9 AM – 2 PM | Sunday from Noon – 4 PM
Location: Billings First Church, 310 N 27th St
Western Native Voice’s field team will be at Billings First Church Nonprofit Yard Sale ready to connect with you and share more about our work. Stop by, say hi, and get ready to:
Register to vote
Learn about our upcoming events
Explore ways to get involved in your community
Dates: Saturday, July 20 & Sunday, July 21
Time: Saturday from 9 AM – 2 PM | Sunday from Noon – 4 PM
Location: Billings First Church, 310 N 27th St