WASHINGTON, D.C. — Western Native Voice has launched a new presence in the nation’s capital, officially opening its Washington office and expanding its reach. The new Western Native Voice D.C. office marks a long-term investment in federal advocacy and visibility for Native communities in Montana and beyond.
As federal policies increasingly shape local realities, Western Native Voice now plays an active role in national decision-making. The organization is working to ensure Native communities are represented in the processes that affect them most. With a growing list of federal issues—including healthcare, broadband access, land management, and voting rights—this move reflects a broader shift from seasonal advocacy to sustained engagement.
Expanding the Fight for Representation
Since its founding, Western Native Voice has worked at the intersection of civic engagement, community organizing, and leadership development. Although the organization’s work has long focused on Montana’s seven Indian reservations and urban Native populations, many key decisions are made in Washington.
The new D.C. office gives Western Native Voice a direct line to national policymakers. Whether the issue is sovereignty, infrastructure, or education, the organization is committed to ensuring Native perspectives shape federal action.
In particular, the team works to close the gap between Montana’s communities and those making decisions that affect them from afar.
From Local to Federal: Connecting Community to Capitol Hill
Heading up the new office is Keaton Sunchild, Western Native Voice’s Director of Government and Political Relations. His focus is on strengthening the organization’s relationships with federal partners and political stakeholders in D.C. He does this through lobbying, networking, and strategic engagement.
“The biggest thing is making sure Native voices have a seat at the table at the federal level,” said Sunchild. “We can’t let elected officials forget about us just because we’re across the country. That’s why we’re here—to lift up the stories and the struggles of our communities and make sure our voice is heard.”
(WNV’s Keaton Sunchild in D.C.)
The D.C. office strengthens Western Native Voice’s role in federal advocacy. The organization continues to push for key policies it has long supported—such as protections under the Indian Child Welfare Act, rural broadband expansion, and Native voting access.
“It has been great being in D.C. so far and being right in the middle of important legislation,” he added. “I am confident WNV will be able to make a meaningful and lasting impact here in D.C. in the very near future.”
Lifting Local Leadership onto the National Stage
Western Native Voice also sees the D.C. office as a leadership training ground. In the months ahead, the organization will bring youth, elders, and local leaders to Washington for hands-on civic learning. Participants will meet with elected officials, observe congressional hearings, and take part in federal policy trainings.
Moreover, these experiences are designed to build confidence and skills for future advocacy. Rather than simply watching policy happen, Native Montanans are learning how to shape it.
Western Native Voice D.C. Office: A Strategic Step Toward National Influence
Western Native Voice’s expansion to Washington is more than logistical—it’s strategic. The organization is positioning Native voices to influence national decisions. These include climate change, healthcare, education, and land use.
Furthermore, federal decisions often affect funding, access, and legal protections for tribal nations. As a result, having a year-round presence in D.C. is critical to ensuring that Native communities aren’t just consulted—they’re leading.
Native communities are often left out when lawmakers in Washington make decisions. This new office is helping close that distance.
For more information or to get involved in Western Native Voice’s federal advocacy efforts, visit westernnativevoice.org or contact info@westernnativevoice.org.