Montana recognizes Indigenous People’s Day

HELENA, MT – After a decade-long fight between Republican State lawmakers and members of the Montana American Indian Caucus, the State of Montana will now recognize Indigenous People’s Day. The State is home to 12 Tribes and seven Reservations.

On May 9th, Governor Greg Gianforte, Republican, signed Senate Bill 224 into law, making Indigenous People Day an official state holiday, alongside Columbus Day, the second day in October.

Senator Sean Morigeau, D-Missoula, the bill’s sponsor said the law is “good for all of Montana”.

“This is about learning from one another and bringing each other together,” he said. “It is something we can all take pride in. We’re going to have a day where we can empower our youth and future generations in a positive way.”

Passing SB 224 was a top priority for Montana’s American Indian Caucus, a group of Native American lawmakers and other supporters who work together to advance legislation they say is good for Indian Country.

Dozens of people traveled to Helena to voice support for the bill as it advanced through the Legislature. They argued that recognizing Indigenous People’s Day promotes unity and encourages all Montanans to celebrate their heritage.

While not a Federal holiday, more than a dozen states and 200 cities, including Bozeman, Helena and Missoula, recognize the day. Former President Joe Biden issued the first presidential proclamation about the Day; however, President Rump wrote that he is “brining Columbus Day back.”

Senator Morigeau was “worried” about that. “I prayed about it regularly and smudged every day. It makes me feel very happy that Governor Gianforte signed the bill.”

Naomi Billedeaux, a Salish Kootenai College language instructor said that state recognition of Indigenous Peoples Day is an important step forward in dismantling stereotypes and promoting healing. “It is a continuation of respect for tribal/state relations and a way to promote education for from a Native perspective. It’s a big win.”

Olivia Adams, a senior at Arlee High School, Blackfeet Nation wrote her testimony on a bus ride to Helena, saying it urges a chance to “celebrate the resilience and strength of Indigenous communities. My great-grandfather, Earl Old Person fought for our people and I want to do that too.”

During the ten-year battle to secure the day, there was much debate about Columbus Day. In 2023, some Republican lawmakers criticized Morigeau for speaking about the atrocities Columbus committed against Native Americans.

To overcome that, supporters this year told law makers that Indigenous Peoples Day is meant to celebrate all Montanans, no matter where they come from.

Marsha Small, Northern Cheyenne co-founder of Indigenous Peoples Day has testified before the Legislature many times in support of the effort remarked “It’s been a long journey and a bumpy ride.”

Small can’t wait to attend celebrations next October which will

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