WHAT: A disturbing pattern of state and local voter suppression tactics are denying Native Americans in
Montana equal access to the ballot box. A lawsuit, against multiple defendants, brought by Fort Peck
Tribal Members will be announced, detailing specific voter suppression efforts in Montana in clear
violation of Montana’s Constitution, laws, and Election Directive #01-2015, including precedent set by
Wandering Medicine v. McCulloch, Custer, et al filed in federal court in Billings, Montana more than a
decade ago.
When: 9:30 a.m., Mountain Time, Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024
Where: James F. Battin Federal Courthouse 2601 2nd Avenue North, Suite 1200, Billings, MT
Who: Advocating for and serving as fact witness for the Native American plaintiffs, Bret Healy,
consultant for Native American voting rights organization Four Directions; and Blackfeet Nation
enrolled member Tom Rodgers, Native American advocate, activist and organizer, known by his
people as, “One who Rides His Horse East.”
What: Speakers will address the new litigation and take questions. Both speakers led the effort on
the landmark Native American civil rights case of Wandering Medicine in U.S. District Court in
Billings.
Notes: Will speak near the main entrance.
Contact: Tom Rodgers, (703) 980-4595, tom@carlyleconsult.com
Attached to this advisory are: 1) Montana Election Directive #01-2015;
2) Demand from Fort Peck Tribal Members to Valley County for a satellite voting office in Frazier, Montana;
3) Demand from Fort Peck Tribal Members to Roosevelt County for a satellite voting office in Poplar, Montana;
4) Letter from Fort Peck Tribes to Valley County regarding satellite office location;
5) Letter from Fort Peck Tribes to Roosevelt County regarding satellite office location;
6) Letter from Fort Peck Tribes to Roosevelt County backing and concurring with Fort Peck Tribal Members;
7) Memorandum
from Roosevelt County Attorney referenced in Letter backing and concurring with Fort Peck Tribal
Members; and
8) Estimated cost for Fort Peck Tribal Members to access late registration and in person absentee currently [without a satellite office as requested].
