Voting Efforts in Indian Country Find a Voice

(April 11, 2004, Minneapolis, MN)—Tools, training, and support are available to support voting efforts in Indian Country. A coalition of non-profit and community groups working to maximize public participation—collectively dubbed National Voice—is helping local groups incorporate voter education, registration, and get out the vote activities into their work.

Among the tools available for free use:

● An online library of technical, legal, and organizing information, and a clearinghouse of effective tools and strategies;

● ElectionMatch.org, an online volunteer matchmaker service for people interested in election work, or for organizations needing support;

● Native Voter, a list serve which reaches over 600 individuals across the country including tribal leaders, youth, media, and representatives across Indian Country. Tne lists share information about voting efforts, great ideas, funding opportunities, and other information relevant to Native voting. You can sign up for the list serve at www.nationalvoice.org under “lists.” (Localized Native Voter list serves are also maintained for Arizona, New Mexico, Minnesota, and Wisconsin.)

● The funding matchmaker, an private online bulletin board available through National Voice staff to post proposals for funding to an interested group of funders.

Alyssa Burhans, member of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, provides support to these initiatives by locating or providing trainings for staff and volunteers, helping groups to secure funding for voting initiatives, and linking local efforts to local and state efforts. Her outreach and support of voting projects in reservation and urban areas is intended to enhance collaboration, reduce duplication, and create an opportunity for community participation and development.

To request further information about the Native Voice’s efforts in Indian Country, please contact:

Alyssa Burhans, Organizing Director: Native Voters

National Voice, 2105 First Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55408

(612) 879-7510

Email: alyssa@nationalvoice.org

Website: www.nationalvoice.org