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.