Help Propel a Native Voice to Chicago

Hello! I am thrilled and honored to have been elected to represent Maine as a National Delegate at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago this August. Here is a little more about me and why this journey is so important to me and my community.

I am Diné, a citizen of the Navajo Nation who has lived as a grateful guest on the land of the Wabanaki in what is now called Maine. Growing up here I did not often get to see Native leaders in political positions or hear about my people or the Maine tribal nations in school and very rarely in the news. In 2020 I decided it was time to have my voice represented in local government and ran for the Portland City Council as an at-large councilor. I won my race and became the first Native American woman to serve on our city council. Serving my community in this capacity for the past four years has demonstrated over and over again the importance of representation, visibility and having a seat at the table where critical decisions for our community are made.

I have worked for the past few years as well helping Native leaders from all over the country step into their power and learn how to run for office, learn campaign strategy, how to tell their story and how to deepen connections within their community to help keep the momentum going for more Native representation. I cannot wait to get to Chicago and have the opportunity to connect with other Native delegates and celebrate the growth and power building we have achieved.

The cost of participation sadly is high and is often one of the main reason many communities like mine are left out of the conversation and political process. The estimated cost to attend the convention (flight, lodging, transportation and food) is about $5,000. I am determined to represent Maine, my city , my people, my family and our Democratic party in Chicago and am so very grateful for your support and contribution!

Ahéhee (Thank you)

(Meeting President Biden at the National League of Cities Conference in D.C. this year)