Western Native Voice Inc

Western Native Voice Inc. is a Montana-based nonprofit organization founded in July 2022 as a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization. Its primary mission is to empower Native communities and address issues affecting Indigenous people through education, community organizing, leadership development, and advocacy[1][5].

History and Formation

Although Western Native Voice Inc. was officially established in 2022, its predecessor, Western Native Voice Education Project, began operations in earlier years. Western Native Voice Education Project started reporting to the IRS in 2021, focusing on charitable activities related to voter rights and community development[2]. The creation of Western Native Voice Inc. in 2022 marked a significant shift towards influencing policymakers to act in the interests of Native Americans[2].

Mission and Vision

The organization is committed to nurturing and elevating Native leadership, amplifying Native voices, and advocating for policies that create positive change for Indigenous communities. Its vision includes engaging Native Americans in building political and personal power to address local community challenges, striving for a world without discrimination and inequality[1].

Activities and Programs

Western Native Voice conducts various activities aimed at community empowerment:

• Voter Registration and GOTV Initiatives: The organization is actively involved in voter registration drives and get-out-the-vote (GOTV) initiatives, especially targeting Native American voters across Montana's reservations and urban centers[2].

• Education and Advocacy: It offers educational programs to inform communities about policies affecting their lives and how to influence policymakers. The focus areas include voting rights, language and culture preservation, suicide prevention, healthcare, education, and food access[2][3].

• Leadership Development: Western Native Voice fosters leadership through training and internships, aiming to increase the number of leaders in Native American communities[2].

• Litigation and Advocacy: The organization has been involved in litigation, notably the challenge against Montana's Ballot Interference Prevention Act and other voting laws, which were struck down by the Montana Supreme Court in 2024[2].

Funding and Partnerships

Western Native Voice has received funding from organizations such as the Groundswell Fund and Native Voices Rising. It is also part of the Western Organization of Resource Councils (WORC), aligning with other progressive groups across the region[2].

Leadership

The organization's leadership includes key figures dedicated to advancing Native American rights. Pat Smith serves as Chairman of the Board, while Ronnie Jo Horse is the Executive Director[2]. The Board of Directors includes individuals with diverse backgrounds and expertise in law, politics, and tribal governance, such as Montana Duke Wilson and Lea Whitford[4].