Western Native Voice Opens D.C. Office to Amplify Indigenous Advocacy
In a significant move to bolster advocacy for Montana’s Native communities at the national level, Western Native Voice is set to open its Washington, D.C., office on May 12. Formed in 2022, the nonprofit has rapidly expanded its membership and established collaborations across Western states. Keaton Sunchild, director of government and political relations, emphasized the necessity of a D.C. presence for addressing urgent issues such as funding for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous People crisis and the drug epidemic affecting tribal communities.
Reflecting on the recent Montana legislative session, Sunchild deemed it "pretty successful" but expressed ongoing concerns about voting rights. The focus is now on the potential impacts of Senate Bill 490, which seeks to impose restrictions on same-day voter registration. Other priorities include advocating for increased funding for satellite election offices and ensuring tribal IDs are recognized as valid voter identification.
As communities grapple with systemic challenges, including voting access and resource allocation, Western Native Voice aims to enhance representation and advocacy for Indigenous interests on a broader scale. This strategic expansion underscores their commitment to empowering Native voices in the political arena.
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