After a decade of failed attempts, Montana’s American Indian Caucus achieved a significant victory when a bill establishing Indigenous Peoples Day as a legal state holiday passed through the Senate with bipartisan support. The success of this legislation, among others, highlights the progress the caucus is making in advocating for Indian Country within the Republican-dominated Legislature. Led by about a dozen Native American state lawmakers, the caucus operates as a minority within a minority and focuses on advancing legislation that benefits Indian Country and Montana as a whole.
Members of the caucus attribute their recent successes to the makeup of the Legislature this year, where Republicans no longer hold a supermajority. Party infighting within the Republican caucus has also contributed to the early achievements of the American Indian Caucus, as moderate Republicans have aligned with Democrats on some issues, including supporting caucus priorities.
Despite their wins, caucus members remain vigilant against harmful legislation that could negatively impact Indian Country. Bills like those aimed at altering the judiciary and expanding wolf hunting raise concerns among caucus members, who argue that such legislation could interfere with state-tribal collaborative management efforts.
As the legislative session progresses, the caucus hopes to see greater engagement from Indian Country and emphasizes the importance of tribal voices in state politics. By working together and prioritizing relationship-building, the American Indian Caucus continues to advance its agenda and advocate for the interests of Native American communities in Montana.
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