Welcome to the May Edition
Dear Relatives and Advocates,
As we move into May, the landscape of our community is shifting rapidly. This newsletter serves as a recap of our busy April, highlighting work we have been doing on the ground, while also looking ahead to some key events coming up this month. We are focusing on the issues and opportunities that matter most to our people, from free Tribal ID Days across the state to standing up for our tribal colleges, supporting clean energy in our region, and uplifting the next generation of Native Voters. There is much to celebrate and much work still to be done. We are grateful for your continued support and encouragement as we fight for the rights and well-being of Native communities across North Dakota. Together, our voices are powerful.
Free IDs coming this May
The North Dakota Department of Transportation is bringing its free non-driver photo ID program to four tribal nations in May. Staff will take photos and verify documents on-site, process applications overnight, and mail IDs within five days. The IDs can be used for voting.
Event dates and locations:
- Spirit Lake Nations – May 4 | 10 a.m.-3 p.m. | The Blue Building, Fort Totten
- Standing Rock Sioux – May 5 | 10 a.m. -3 p.m. | Sioux County Courthouse, Fort Yates
- MHA Nation – May 18 | 10 a.m. -3 p.m. | Northern Lights Wellness Center, New Town
- Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa – May 19 | 10 a.m. -3 p.m. | Sky Dancer Casino, Belcourt
Those wishing to obtain an ID must bring a birth certificate, a Social Security card, and proof of address. If applicable, documentation of a court-issued name change is also required. Questions can be directed to NDDOT at 1-855-633-6835
Standing with North Dakota’s Tribal Colleges
North Dakota Native Vote stands with our tribal colleges as they face a proposed 90% cut to federal funding in President Trump’s 2027 budget. This is the second consecutive year these institutions have faced this threat.
Dr. Tracy Bauer, Executive Director of the ND Tribal College System, warns that the cuts could force the closure of all five North Dakota tribal colleges. These are not optional programs, but rather treaty-protected institutions that train our workforce and strengthen our communities. In FY 2022-2023, North Dakota’s tribal colleges contribute $169.5 million to Tribal Nations.
Congress has until October 1 to finalize the budget. We urge North Dakota’s congressional delegation to reject these cuts and uphold the federal government’s treaty obligations to Tribal Nations.
Success at our recent free tribal ID days
North Dakota Native Vote has been partnering with local tribes across the state to host free Tribal ID Days, helping community members get election-ready for the 2026 Midterms and beyond.
Standing Rock Sioux Tribe
On April 8, we partnered with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe to host a successful free Tribal ID Day. Turnout exceeded expectations, with tribal members of all ages stopping by to update their IDs. Beyond IDs, the event created space for meaningful conversations about the importance of the Native vote and issues impacting our communities.
Spirit Lake Nation
On April 30, North Dakota Native Vote teamed up with the Spirit Lake Nation to co-host a free Tribal ID Day for the community. With a total of 80 IDs issued, participation was strong and energized. The event focused on encouraging updated identification ahead of the upcoming Midterm elections and allowed us to speak with community members. North Dakota Native Vote is always grateful to be in our communities. Listening, sharing resources, and building a presence of support and trust are at the core of what we work to achieve.
Follow us on Facebook to stay up to date on future Free Tribal ID events and other opportunities to get involved!
Stand up for clean energy: Longspur wind
The North Dakota Public Service Commission is meeting on May 18th to consider approving Longspur Wind, a 200-megawatt wind farm proposed in Morton County. This would create meaningful investment, jobs, and economic growth in North Dakota. North Dakota Native Vote is proud to support this project, and we’re encouraging our community to get involved ahead of the hearing.
Here’s how you can help:
- Send a letter to the PSC Commissioners with this letter-writing tool: https://secure.ngpvan.com/QUzrkq69s0ijuKrVbCryqA2?sourceid=1055005
- Attend the PSC hearing on May 18th in person: RSVP here: https://www.mobilize.us/greenlightaction/event/944463/?utm_source=NDNV
Your voice matters! All North Dakota residents are welcome to submit a letter in support of this project.
Uplifting the Next Generation
At North Dakota Native Vote, we recognize that young people are at the heart of our movement. Their voices matter, now and in every election to come. We are committed to uplifting Native youth, ensuring they feel confident in their voting rights, and preparing them to participate in civic life. As the next generation of leaders, advocates, and voters, we will continue to meet them where they are and provide the resources and support they need, and amplify their voices.
Interested in getting involved? Contact us
With Gratitude
Everything we do at North Dakota Native Vote is made possible because of the support and engagement of community members like you. Whether you are staying informed on these policy shifts or preparing for the upcoming elections, you are the heart of this movement.
Thank you for being part of our community and standing with us as we work toward a more representative future for all Tribal Nations.