You may not know that Native Americans were only recognized as US citizens by the federal government in 1924. This recognition gave them access to voting, but left it up to the states to provide those voting rights. Many states have engaged in suppression of Native Americans voting. Native American populations have some of the lowest voter participation in local elections. We have a significant number of Native Americans living in our community. The California Native Vote Project's mission is Building Native Voting Power in California. We had an opportunity to learn more in partnership with the Marin League.
At the Marin League monthly meeting on Monday, Jan. 9th, 2023 we heard from Lorelle W.B. Ross of the Federated Indians of the Graton Rancheria and Calvin Hedrick of the California Native Vote Project about Building Native Voting Power in California.
If you missed the Jan. 9th Presentation-- there are many ways to learn more.
Watch the recording of the Jan 9th presentation: "Building Native Voting Power in CA" at: Marin LWV YouTube
Read a couple of recommended books, both of which are available at the library:
- An Indigenous People's History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortis. Provides a true history of the United States and challenges many myths.
- An American Genocide Benjamin Madley A true history as told by Native Americans about their experiences.
Some people find these two books a tough read because both document the mistreatment of our native population. But the true is empowering and a first step on making change, so we hope you will give them a try and maybe read with a friend to be able to discuss the content.
Visit some helpful websites with more information:
- Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria - Culture Department contacts
- Library and Archive: Matthew Johnson mjohnson@gratonrancheria.com
- Tribal Heritage Preservation Office: Buffy McQuillen bmcquillen@gratonrancheria.com
Watch for more presentations and opportunities to learn about groups in our community with lower voter turn out and what we can all do to make a difference. This is part of our goal to have diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in all we do, in order to have a "more perfect union."
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