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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Tribal leaders mark Indigenous Peoples Day urging Native vote

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Monday, October 14, 2024   

Today is Indigenous Peoples' Day, and tribal leaders are using the occasion to call on people in Indian Country to vote in the upcoming election.

This year is the 100th anniversary of the Indian Citizenship Act, passed in 1924 to grant U.S. citizenship to all Indigenous people - including the right to vote.

But Montana Poet Laureate and Native American activist Chris La Tray said there have been consistent efforts to suppress that right. He's calling on the state's Native population to cast their ballots.

"Because it has power," said La Tray. "So, I urge you to use it. Vote in tribal elections, community elections, state and national elections - every election you can. Guide the future of our people. Protect the future of our people."

Indigenous advocacy groups have worked to increase voter registration numbers on tribal lands.

They've created an online voter information guide, and continue to fight efforts to limit remote ballot collection on Montana's seven reservations.

More than 6% of Montana's population is Indigenous, and Native voter registration has been steadily increasing since 2016 - thanks to efforts of folks like those at the advocacy group Western Native Voice.

Native American activist and Marine Purple Heart recipient Jonas Rides at the Door calls voting critical.

"Our elected leaders shape many aspects of our lives, so I engage to elected leaders that will protect our cultural way of life," said Rides at the Door. "This year, join me in being a modern day warrior. Let's vote."

The Montana Supreme Court recently blocked measures designed to limit remote ballot collection from taking effect.

The state, led by Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen, appealed the decision to the U.S. Supreme Court. Supporters argue the measures would reduce fraud.



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