April 30 marked sine die, or the final day of the 2025 Montana Legislative Session. Coming into this legislative session, our strategy at the ACLU of Montana was to remain steadfast for civil rights and liberties and push back against those who might try to take those rights away from our communities.
We also committed to partner with allies to bring important perspectives and lived experiences into the chambers; while building support across partisan lines to create a better Montana for all.
In that vein, we are pleased to highlight the bills being signed into law that uplift Indigenous Justice. As a top-tier priority for this session, it is gratifying to witness the passage of laws that reflect Indian Education for All, child welfare, language revitalization, voting rights, and finally, after many attempts, the official commemoration of Indigenous Peoples’ Day in our state.
Senate Bill 181 - Indian Education for All (IEFA)
This bill advances Native education in classrooms across Montana by expanding and strengthening Montana’s commitment to teaching Indigenous histories and cultures in schools, and ensuring that all students learn about the sovereignty, resilience, and diversity of Montana’s tribal nations.
Senate Bill 147 - Montana Indian Child Welfare Act (MICWA)
This bill protects Indigenous children and families by ensuring that Native children remain connected to their communities and culture when they are involved in the child welfare system. MICWA centers family unity and tribal sovereignty.
Senate Bill 182 - Montana Indian Language Preservation Program
Investing in the revitalization and preservation of Indigenous languages is at the heart of this bill, through funding and support of community-based Native language programs in Montana. These efforts are critical to maintaining the unique worldviews, knowledge and identities of Indigenous people across the state.
Senate Bill 224 - Indigenous Peoples’ Day
This bill formally recognizes Indigenous Peoples’ Day in Montana. Indigenous Peoples’ Day honors Indigenous cultures, histories, and contributions, and creates resilience by strengthening Indigenous visibility and representation.
We are honored to work alongside the elected leaders of Montana’s American Indian Caucus: Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy, Sen. Jacinda Morigeau, Sen. Shane Morigeau, Sen. Susan Webber, Rep. Jade Crowe, Rep. Sidney “Chip” Fitzpatrick, Rep. Mike Fox, Rep. Shelly Fyant, Rep. Donavon Hawk, Rep. Frank Smith, Rep. Jade Sooktis, and Rep. Tyson Running Wolf.
Montana is home to seven Indian reservations and 12 federally recognized tribes. The ACLU of Montana remains dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices in securing and enshrining tribal rights by supporting tribal communities and following their lead on community-directed and integrated legal and advocacy work that increases sovereignty, dignity, and autonomy. It is a good day for Indigenous Justice, and for all those who care deeply about civil rights for all citizens under the Big Sky.
