Honoring Native Voice

Honoring Native Voices and Culture

Native communities are at the heart of South Dakota’s history, and must be at the heart of its future. For too long, tribal voices have been ignored, sidelined, or treated as an afterthought in policy decisions that directly impact Native lives, lands, and sovereignty. It’s time for more than symbolic gestures, it’s time for real partnership, shared power, and respect.

When we lift Native voices, we don’t just preserve culture, we acknowledge truth, strengthen our communities, and chart a path forward that includes everyone. Honoring tribal sovereignty, protecting sacred lands, investing in Native youth, and listening to Indigenous leadership will move South Dakota toward a more just and united future. That’s not just good policy, it’s what respect looks like.