What’s at Stake

Native American Voters Deserve to Have Their Voices Heard

Indigenous women and their communities want their say in the 2020 election

Indigenous protesters and supporters gather at the Black Hills, now the site of Mount Rushmore, on July 3, 2020 in Keystone, South Dakota. Photo: Micah Garen/Getty Images

ZORA has delved into what’s at stake in this election cycle with an important series about women of color and the vote. We sought the insight of political activists, advocacy groups, lawmakers, and community stakeholders. Read on for insight into a voting bloc that may impact not just the next election, but America’s future course. Keep an eye on What’s at Stake all week long.

When Deb Haaland and Sharice Davids made history in 2018 as the first Native American women ever elected to Congress, it symbolized the collective journey of Indigenous people who’ve lived on these lands for millennia. Rep. Haaland represents New Mexico and is an enrolled citizen of the Pueblo of Laguna. Davids, a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation in Wisconsin, represents Kansas. Now the congresswomen are raising their voices in tandem with fellow lawmakers, advocates, and community leaders to urge Indian Country to participate in the November general election.

“Voting is sacred,” said Rep. Haaland during a televised speech at the Democratic National Convention in August. Davids, appearing on a video call with fellow convention vice chairs, termed the…