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!
At Western Native Voice, we take great pride in highlighting the remarkable individuals within our community who are championing change and uplifting Indigenous voices. Launching our new series of member spotlights, we are honored to feature Western Native Voice member, Melanie Sands Snyder, a citizen of the Chippewa-Cree tribe, whose unwavering dedication to advocacy, leadership, and mentorship continues to inspire and empower.
Embracing Heritage and Leadership
Melanie, a citizen of Rocky Boy Tribe, resides in Helena, Montana, where she actively works in people development, talent acquisition, and Indigenous advocacy—particularly in leadership and healthcare. As an author, speaker, and mentor, she has dedicated her career to ensuring Indigenous professionals are seen, heard, and valued. Her Becoming Me series and speaking engagements focus on DEII (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Indigenous mentorship), reinforcing her commitment to empowering Indigenous leaders.
A Catalyst for Change
Melanie’s passion for advocacy was ignited by personal experiences where she felt unseen and unheard. Navigating both systemic barriers and disability, she recognized the urgent need to create pathways for Indigenous professionals in leadership roles. Working in recruitment and retention, she saw firsthand how Indigenous voices were often missing from decision-making spaces—an issue she has since devoted herself to changing. Through her work, she ensures that Indigenous professionals not only have a seat at the table but that their voices are heard and valued.
Why Western Native Voice?
Western Native Voice opened my eyes to the power of community and advocacy. Their message of empowerment wasn’t just words—it was a call to action. Now, I stand with my people, working toward a future where we all rise together.
Through their mission, I found a purpose, a platform, and a network of like-minded individuals striving for meaningful change. Western Native Voice has reinforced my belief that Indigenous leadership is essential in every space, and I am honored to be part of this movement.
Overcoming Challenges with Resilience
Breaking barriers is never easy. Melanie has faced the challenge of advocating for Indigenous representation in spaces where it was often overlooked. Instead of backing down, she built a strong network of Indigenous professionals, allies, and mentors, fostering collective growth and progress.
Her journey as an author was another test of resilience—sharing her personal story in Becoming Me required vulnerability, but it also reinforced her belief that stories hold power. Today, she uses her platform to uplift Indigenous voices, champion leadership equity, and break down barriers for future generations.
Inspiring Community Engagement
Melanie believes that advocacy isn’t just about grand gestures—it’s about taking the first step. Whether it’s mentoring an individual, speaking up in a meeting, or ensuring that another Indigenous voice is heard, every action matters. Through her work, she hopes to inspire others to embrace their culture, step into leadership roles, and create meaningful change within their communities.
Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Melanie dreams of a world where Indigenous people have equal representation in leadership, healthcare, and decision-making spaces. She envisions:
More Native-owned businesses are thriving.
Indigenous professionals leading at executive levels.
Stronger cultural integration within institutions.
A shift in national conversations toward genuine Indigenous inclusion and equity—not just in policies but in boardrooms, bookshelves, and leadership pipelines.
Through mentorship, storytelling, and unwavering dedication, Melanie is committed to equipping Indigenous professionals with the tools and confidence to step into leadership roles—helping shape a future our ancestors envisioned.
We are grateful for Melanie Sands Snyder’s unwavering dedication to advocacy and leadership within our community. Her story is a testament to the resilience, strength, and vision that define Western Native Voice.
Join us in celebrating Melanie’s contributions and stay connected for more inspiring stories from our community.
To connect with people like Melanie in your community become a member today!
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.
MONTANA—Native communities around Montana turned out in significant numbers for the 2024 election, driven by years of dedicated grassroots efforts from organizations like Western Native Voice. While voter turnout showed promising gains, challenges persist, and there is much work to be done to sustain and build upon this progress.
This year’s voter turnout in Montana reached 68.09%, a notable increase from 61% in 2016 and slightly higher than the 66% achieved in 2020 during an all-mail ballot election. Reservation precincts showed particularly strong participation, with absentee ballot returns exceeding 75%. These numbers reflect the commitment of Western Native Voice to engaging communities, even in the face of systemic barriers.
However, despite these achievements, significant gaps remain. While some areas saw increased participation, others faced setbacks, underscoring the need for continued efforts to address obstacles and engage more voters. Western Native Voice recognizes that meaningful progress requires ongoing dedication to both immediate electoral needs and the broader work of empowerment.
Beyond Election Day: Year-Round Impact
Beyond Election Day: Year-Round Impact
Western Native Voice operates year-round to build lasting change, focusing on education, leadership development, civic engagement, and public policy advocacy. These efforts aim to strengthen the foundation of Native political power, creating pathways for community members to actively shape decisions at the state and national levels.
Through initiatives like voter registration drives, leadership workshops, and community education, the organization fosters a deeper understanding of the democratic process. These programs not only help mobilize voters during elections but also cultivate a stronger sense of civic responsibility and leadership within Native communities.
Representation in Action
One significant outcome of the 2024 election was the election of 10 Native leaders to the Montana legislature: 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. This milestone represents meaningful progress, but it is also a reminder of the ongoing need for greater representation and equity in government.
The success of these legislators highlights the importance of advocacy organizations in cultivating a pipeline of Native leaders. By supporting candidates and engaging communities, Western Native Voice is helping to ensure that Native perspectives are represented in decision-making spaces.
Building for the Future
The 2024 election has provided valuable insights into the successes and challenges of mobilizing Native voters. While the increased turnout is encouraging, the uneven results across communities signal a need for continued investment in outreach, education, and barrier reduction.
Western Native Voice is committed to using these lessons to refine its strategies and strengthen its impact. By focusing on long-term goals alongside immediate electoral outcomes, the organization is working to ensure that Native voices are not only heard during elections but also hold enduring influence in shaping the future.
For Montana’s Native communities, the work continues. The progress seen in 2024 is a foundation to build upon, driven by a collective determination to create a more inclusive and equitable democratic process.
November 5, 2024
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Need a ride to vote? Call 406-869-1938!
Western Native Voice’s trusted organizers are ready to give you a ride to the polls or will safely deliver your ballot to the election office!
Be a super voter! Let’s get the Native Vote out this election. Our voices matter!
BILLINGS, Mont. — On October 14, 2024, Western Native Voice, in partnership with Indigenous Peoples Day Montana, hosted a day-long celebration in Billings, Montana, for Indigenous Peoples Day. This event brought together community members and allies for a meaningful recognition of Indigenous history, culture, resilience, and a tribute to all Indigenous people of all cultures.
Tracie Garfield, Communications Director at Western Native Voice, emphasized the importance of the celebration, stating, “When we don’t know our past, we don’t know where to aim for the future. Celebrating Indigenous Peoples’ Day helps us understand our roots and envision a brighter future together.”
Embracing History and Reflection
The day began with a teepee art installation by artist Ben Pease at Black Otter Trail, overlooking Billings—a visual tribute to Indigenous strength and connection to the land. Community members gathered at Boothill Burial Ground for an opening reflection and a moment of global Indigenous recognition, paying respect to shared histories and achievements. A symbolic Silent Walk followed, tracing a historic path to Black Otter Trail and honoring the enduring stories of the history of Billings and the Indigenous people and immigrants who contributed the city.
Celebrating Culture and Community
In the afternoon, the event moved to the Bighorn Resort Conference Center, where a vendor show featured Indigenous artisans, cultural demonstrations, and guest speakers. A shared meal brought attendees together, reinforcing the value of community gathering and cultural traditions. Western Native Voice facilitated this space as a reminder of the importance of celebrating heritage and unity within Indigenous communities.
Evening Performances and Indigenous Artistry
The evening’s entertainment, hosted by “Krazy” Kasey Nicholson, showcased Native humor and creative expression. Headlined by comedian Tatanka Means, with additional performances by “Beef” Donovan Archambault and Tonia Jo Hall, the evening embraced Indigenous artistry. Musicians Foreshadow, Nataanii Means, Joel Wood, and Armond Duck Chief filled the room with songs of pride and storytelling, while a fashion show by Brocade highlighted contemporary Indigenous style.
Western Native Voice’s Indigenous Peoples Day celebration in Billings not only honored Indigenous culture and traditions but also underscored the importance of community and resilience. Indigenous Peoples’ Day celebrates our shared history in Montana and honors the rich contributions of Indigenous peoples from all regions. This day honors the collaboration and coexistence that have shaped our state.
MONTANA — In a sweeping campaign to galvanize voter turnout across Montana’s Native communities, Western Native Voice concluded its “Snag Dat Vote” tour, a two-day voter education and engagement event that reached every Montana reservation and the city of Great Falls. At a time when Native voters face unique barriers to participation, the tour blended community gatherings, informational sessions, and entertainment to empower Native communities with the tools and knowledge to participate in the 2024 election.
Research highlights the effectiveness of grassroots organizing, particularly when it is community-centered. Studies on relational organizing, a strategy that leverages interpersonal relationships, show it can increase voter turnout by up to 11% among communities that often face additional voting barriers (Union of Concerned Scientists, 2023; Progressive Turnout Project, 2021).
Each tour stop’s second day kicked off with Western Native Voice’s field team canvassing directly in the community, engaging residents to encourage voter registration and answer questions about the upcoming election. Through these face-to-face interactions, the team connected with hundreds of voters and collected over 300 new registrations across all stops, underscoring the impact of direct voter education and engagement in fostering civic participation.
“Our Field Team worked tirelessly in the lead-up to the October 7th registration deadline, securing 328 new voter registrations during the tour,” said Sami Walking Bear, Outreach and Field Director. “We canvassed over 500 doors, sharing election information and offering assistance to voters needing help with ballots or transportation to the polls.”
Each evening culminated in a high-energy celebration, headlined by Native comedians and musicians whose performances underscored the importance of the Native vote in shaping Montana’s future. The shows fostered a vibrant, inclusive environment that reinforced the significance of civic participation, reminding attendees of their role in creating positive change.
Western Native Voice’s approach aligns with these findings, highlighting the value of connecting people not only to voting resources but also to each other.
With absentee ballots set to start hitting mailboxes on October 11, Native voters across Montana are being encouraged to prepare by using Ballot Builder, an online tool designed to simplify the voting process. Western Native Voice, a nonprofit organization focused on increasing Native political participation, is promoting the tool as part of its broader civic engagement efforts ahead of the 2024 election.
What is Ballot Builder?
Ballot Builder allows voters to create a personalized sample ballot based on their home address. The tool provides users with a detailed look at the candidates, ballot initiatives, and issues that will appear on their local ballot. By offering accessible information in a straightforward format, Ballot Builder helps voters make informed decisions before heading to the polls or mailing in their absentee ballots.
Why Ballot Builder is Important for Native Voters
Western Native Voice has consistently highlighted the unique challenges faced by Native voters, including limited access to polling locations and a lack of information about candidates and policies that affect Native communities. Ballot Builder is designed to address these challenges by providing easy access to relevant, community-focused information.
For Native voters, this tool can be especially helpful in understanding how candidates’ positions on issues like healthcare, education, and tribal sovereignty will impact their communities. By making the voting process more transparent, Western Native Voice aims to empower Native voters to participate confidently in the electoral process.
How to Use Ballot Builder
Voters can access Ballot Builder by visiting wnv.branch.vote. Once on the site, users simply input their address to receive a personalized sample ballot. The platform provides detailed descriptions of each candidate and ballot initiative, allowing voters to review and make informed decisions.
The tool is mobile-friendly and can be accessed on any device, making it easy for voters to use at their convenience.
Western Native Voice’s Broader Mission
Ballot Builder is just one aspect of Western Native Voice’s efforts to increase Native voter turnout and participation. The organization has been actively involved in voter registration drives, educational events, and Get Out the Vote (GOTV) campaigns, all aimed at helping Native communities engage more fully in the political process.
For more information about Ballot Builder, visit wnv.branch.vote.
MONTANA — In September, Western Native Voice launched the Snag Dat Vote Tour, a crucial effort to strengthen Native political engagement in five Native communities—Blackfeet, Rocky Boy, Fort Belknap, Polson (CSKT area), and Fort Peck. Each stop was a two-day event designed to empower Native voters through education, community building, and direct action, with the ultimate goal of increasing voter turnout in the 2024 election.
The first night of each stop featured a community feed, where local residents came together to share a meal and engage in meaningful discussions about the power of their vote. The conversations went beyond just the mechanics of voting; they highlighted why every vote matters in shaping the future for Native communities. By explaining how votes are counted and discussing the real impact voting has on issues like healthcare, education, and sovereignty, the tour helped motivate attendees to participate in the election.
The second day was all about action. Western Native Voice’s field team went door-to-door, engaging with community members on a personal level. Over 100 doors were knocked at each stop, with 33% of those interactions resulting in new voter registrations. These efforts were part of a larger strategy to boost voter engagement ahead of the October 7th voter registration deadline.
“Our field team worked hard to get as many voter registrations as possible before the deadline,” said Sami Walking Bear, Western Native Voice’s Field & Outreach Director. Walking Bear noted that the team, along with community organizers, knocked on over 500 doors across the tour stops. They not only registered new voters but also provided election information and offered assistance to those needing help with getting to the polls or submitting their ballots.
To celebrate the momentum and energy from the canvassing efforts, the second night of each stop featured a voter celebration. Musicians and comedians performed, providing entertainment and reinforcing the message that voting can be both powerful and enjoyable. These events helped bring the community together and promote active participation in the electoral process.
The Snag Dat Vote Tour focused on building a culture of civic engagement within Native communities. Western Native Voice remains committed to empowering Native people to take an active role in shaping their future through voting, ensuring that every Native voice is heard in the 2024 election.
This month, we visited with Jen Murphy, an enrolled member of the Chippewa-Cree tribe from Rocky Boy. Known by her Indian name, Sweetgrass Lodge, Jen is a dedicated photographer and advocate for raising awareness about the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People (MMIW/P). This ongoing tragedy refers to the disproportionate rates of violence, abduction, and murder experienced by Indigenous women and people in the U.S. and Canada. Through Jen’s work as a photographer, author, filmmaker, and advocate, she uses her talents to educate and inspire action within Native communities and beyond.
Please start with your background, tribe, where you grew up, family, schools attended, what you are currently doing now, etc.
I grew up in Havre, MT with a lot of family on our reservation in Rocky Boy (Chippewa-Cree). I attended and graduated High School from Havre High School in 1999. I then attended Montana State University Northern, where I graduated with a BA in Community Service/Communication. I am currently enrolled and am attending Montana State University – Bozeman, working on my Graduate Certificate in Native American Studies. I have worked as a Juvenile Detention Officer, a Child Protection Specialist, A Felony Parole Officer, a Tribal Liaison and an Executive Producer. Currently, I am an Executive Producer, children’s book author, an Associate for AMBER Alert in Indian Country, and a Tribal Liaison.
Could you share the moment or experience that inspired you to use photography as a tool for raising awareness about the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) issue?
Jen in Hawaii with with her daughters.
On June 16, 2018, Jermain Charlo went missing out of Missoula, MT. She was an enrolled tribal member. Living in Missoula at the time, I watched as the case unfolded and all of the errors and lack of response that happened. I wanted to do something to bring awareness to this issue and I always loved to take pictures. Photography has the unique ability to say a million things without saying a word. It is a medium you can look at and FEEL what is being said.
Your work spans different mediums, from photography to film. How do you decide which medium best conveys the message you want to share about MMIW?
Photography has always been my chosen medium. Just recently, I was introduced to film and what a great way to tell a story; our people have conveyed storytelling since the beginning of time and this is just another way to get the awareness out.
You recently authored a children’s book on MMIW. How do you approach the challenge of introducing such a sensitive issue to young readers?
As I have been doing this awareness work, I noticed a huge gap and that was in reaching our youth. My children’s book titled, “More Like Her,” is a simple book that allows families or educators to start introducing this topic to our children. You have the ability to help them understand the issue in a non-threatening way and begin this conversation, hopefully bringing awareness to them and hopefully make them aware that this does happen to our people.
Photography has the unique ability to say a million things without saying a word. It is a medium you can look at and FEEL what is being said.
Jen standing next to her MMIW photo “Undaunted” which is permanently hung in the Montana Museum of Art and Culture in Missoula.
What has the response been like to your short film, Not Afraid, as it travels through film festivals? Have any moments of feedback particularly stood out to you?
The responses have been really good. What stands out to me is that, still, after all of these years, people are stunned that this is happening to our people. Many still do not know that this is an issue, still today. It has been amazing to use this platform to help educate people on the topic.
Could you tell us more about the domestic violence Fatality Review commissions you’re involved with? What impact do these commissions have on legislative changes for Native communities?
The Domestic Violence Fatality Review Commissions have two teams, the State Team and the Native American Team. I am appointed by the Montana Attorney General to sit on both teams. This team is a multidisciplinary team of law enforcement, community members, judges, victim advocates, ect. and we look at trends of domestic violence homicides and make recommendations for legislative changes. These commissions when dealing with our communities in general, help us understand where victims are missed and what gaps need to be filled and paid attention too.
When collaborating with families affected by MMIW, what is the most important message you hope to convey through your work?
When working with families affected by MMIW/P, the most important message that I hope to convey is the power of being WITH them. That they are not alone, they are seen and their loved one deserved better.
Jen with her husband attending a film festival in Los Angeles.
How do you believe educating the general public on the history of MMIW can contribute to finding solutions to the crisis?
By bringing the right people to the table. It brings awareness to this crisis. I always say, you don’t know what you don’t know, until you know it. But, once you do, you should do better.
What has been the most challenging aspect of your work advocating for MMIW, and how do you stay motivated despite those challenges?
The most challenging thing about working as an advocate for MMIW is that I am not always going to please everyone. What I say to that is, I am doing what I believe that Creator has called me to do. I show up everyday with a warrior spirit and pray about everything I do. I talk with elders, I am open to feedback and I never pretend to be an expert at any of this. What I do is done with humility and a good heart.
I show up every day with a warrior spirit and pray about everything I do. I talk with elders, I am open to feedback, and I never pretend to be an expert at any of this.
Jen attending Heartland Film Festival in Indianapolis, IN.
What are your hopes for the future of MMIW awareness, especially with the next generation, through efforts like your children’s book?
My hope is that by bringing awareness, the public will start to understand that our people are not asking for special treatment. We are asking for the same treatment. We should be looked for the same, and our perpetrators should be punished the same way, etc. I hope that I inspire our youth to be a loud voice surrounding this issue. I pray that our youth find their voice, be a roaring lion on this issue, and stand up for what is right, even if their voice shakes.
If you could change one thing about the way society addresses domestic violence and MMIW today, what would it be and why?
Believing victims and their families. If we took victims and their families seriously from day one, I truly believe this would affect how things are done.
