The Daily Spark

The Montana American Indian Caucus has outlined its legislative priorities for the 2025 session, focusing on issues critical to Native American communities. Key areas of emphasis include enhancing tribal sovereignty, improving healthcare access, and addressing economic disparities. The caucus aims to collaborate with state lawmakers to advance policies that support the well-being and rights of Indigenous peoples in Montana.

​​Montana State University Billings hosted its second annual "No More Stolen Sisters" night to raise awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People (MMIP). The event highlighted the crisis impacting Native American communities, with players and fans showing support by wearing red and displaying tribute posters. MSUB's efforts, sparked by former player Kola Bad Bear, continue to amplify voices advocating for justice and recognition.

North Dakota tribal lawmakers are advocating for legislation to form a task force dedicated to addressing missing Indigenous people. The proposed task force would work with local law enforcement and tribal communities to improve investigations, share resources, and offer support to families. Supporters hope the bill will improve efforts to locate missing Indigenous individuals and provide stronger community engagement.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in collaboration with Native American tribes, is working to restore Arctic grayling to Michigan rivers. This effort, starting with the release of 400,000 eggs in May, aims to reestablish self-sustaining populations of the fish, which vanished from the state in 1936.

The Daybreak Star Indian Cultural Center, based in Seattle, is one of the local changemakers honored by Microsoft. The center plays a pivotal role in uplifting and preserving Native cultures and traditions in the Puget Sound region. It provides a space for Indigenous people to gather, learn, and celebrate their heritage. Microsoft’s support highlights the center’s continued efforts to foster cultural awareness and community empowerment.

The American Philosophical Society is accepting applications for its Phillips Fund for Native American Research program. Grants of up to $3,500 are available to support research on the history and cultures of Native American peoples. The application deadline is February 15, 2025.

For more information, read the full article at https://philanthropynewsdigest.org/rfps/rfp17436-american-philosophical-society-invites-applications-for-native-american-research.

President Donald Trump has initiated the process for federal recognition of the Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina. This action follows a longstanding effort by the tribe, which has been recognized by the state since 1885 but has yet to receive federal status. Federal recognition would provide the tribe access to critical resources and benefits. The Department of the Interior has been directed to develop a plan for securing full recognition through legislation or other methods.

Indigenous individuals have filed a lawsuit against the state of Arizona, alleging they were victims of a "sober living scam." According to Indian Country Today, the lawsuit claims that Native Americans were subjected to unsafe, unregulated conditions in the state's sober living facilities. The plaintiffs are seeking justice and accountability for the treatment they received. Advocates argue that this case highlights broader concerns about the exploitation of vulnerable Native populations in Arizona.

Tribal leaders are raising concerns following reports that Navajo people were detained during recent immigration sweeps. According to the Oregon Capital Chronicle, these actions have prompted calls for a review of how Native Americans are treated in such operations. Tribal officials emphasize that these individuals should not be subject to immigration enforcement due to their citizenship in sovereign nations. The Navajo Nation is investigating the matter and seeking clarification on their members' rights in this context.

President Donald Trump has reinstated the expedited removal policy, allowing immigration officers to deport individuals without court hearings. This policy, known as expedited removal, grants immigration officers the authority to deport individuals without a court hearing. The expansion of this policy nationwide has raised concerns among civil rights groups about its potential impact on vulnerable populations, including Native Americans.

The policy's expansion has raised concerns among civil rights groups about its potential impact on vulnerable populations, including Native Americans. Advocacy organizations are closely monitoring the implementation of this policy to ensure that the rights of all individuals, particularly those from marginalized communities, are protected.

Buffalos Fire is at the Native American Development Center's inaugural Tribal Econ Summit at the Bismarck Civic Center! Stop by our booth in Hall B today and tomorrow from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. to fill out our survey and sign up for our newsletter. You'll receive a prize like a buffalo stress ball, water bottle or pen just for participating! Come meet our team and get involved!

Native-led renewable energy projects are gaining momentum with support from the 2022 Inflation Reduction Act, offering Tribes tax credits covering up to 70% of costs and $20 billion in energy loans. However, challenges persist, including funding gaps, resource limitations, and infrastructure hurdles like access to transmission lines.

Organizations like SAGE, Alliance for Tribal Clean Energy, and Grid Alternatives are stepping in to provide funding, advocacy, and resources. These initiatives align with cultural values and strengthen sovereignty while building a sustainable future.

The Coquille Tribe has received federal approval to build a casino in Medford, Oregon, on their ancestral lands. The U.S. Department of the Interior’s decision grants the tribe permission to develop the project on a 2.42-acre site. Tribal leaders say the casino will boost economic growth, create jobs, and fund community services.

However, the project faces opposition from local officials and the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe, citing concerns over competition and impacts on regional resources.

A new federal policy aims to preserve Indigenous knowledge and protect historic sites across the U.S. Developed in consultation with tribal leaders, the policy recognizes the deep cultural and spiritual significance of these lands. It also emphasizes the role of Indigenous expertise in environmental stewardship and heritage conservation.

Tribal leaders applaud the move but stress the need for continued consultation and funding to safeguard these sacred places.

Students at Billings Senior High School are raising awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous People cases. Through events and educational outreach, they aim to spotlight the crisis impacting Native communities and honor those affected.

The students' efforts emphasize the importance of justice and advocacy for Indigenous families while encouraging others to get involved in MMIP awareness initiatives.

A major habitat restoration project is underway in the Upper Klamath Basin, with water being reintroduced to vital wetlands to support endangered fish and improve ecosystems. The effort involves collaboration between Tribes, conservation groups, and government agencies.

This restoration is part of a broader initiative to address water quality issues, restore wetlands, and sustain cultural and environmental resources essential to the region.

Learn more about how this project is reshaping the Upper Klamath Basin.

The Washoe Tribe of Nevada and California is reviving cultural burning practices to restore forest health and support traditional crafts. Controlled burns near Dresslerville, Nevada, encourage the regrowth of willow, essential for the tribe's basket making, while also reducing wildfire risks. Rhiana Jones, director of the tribe’s environmental protection department, highlighted the burns' impact, noting straighter willow regrowth. These efforts blend cultural traditions with environmental restoration.

A weekly support group for American Indian men seeking recovery will meet tonight at Native, Inc. Fargo from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. Participants will gather for prayer, story sharing and fellowship.

The session will include smudge and group discussion.

Location:

Native Inc. Fargo

115 University Dr N, Ste 102

Fargo, ND 58102

The Sitting Bull Visitor Center is offering an opportunity to learn about art, food and medicine through a series of evening classes. These hands-on sessions will be held both at the Visitor Center and McLaughlin High School.

Interested participants are encouraged to register ahead of time to secure their spot in the classes.

For more information or to register, please contact Jennifer Martel at jennifer.martel@sittingbull.edu.

Don't miss out on this chance to expand your knowledge and skills in these enriching areas!