Here’s some things you can do. In our experience, we have found that many (well-intentioned) white people often conflate Montana’s whiteness with a lack of diversity and racism. This harmful rhetoric erases the thousands of years Indigenous peoples who have stewarded the land and communities of color who call Montana home. It also ignores the…
Forward Montana and Forward Montana Foundation denounces the white supremacy and police violence that is killing Black lives. We proudly support the #BlackLivesMatter uprisings and actions across the nation and state of Montana In 2004, the founders of our organization believed in an equitable Montana where all people could thrive. They believed Montana would be…
We were so excited to host Governor Steve Bullock’s announcement about his Climate Change Executive Order. Not only does this Executive Order enjoin Montana in the U.S. Climate Alliance, but it creates a council of Montanans to build out Montana-made recommendations in the following areas: (1) climate resilience, (2) climate mitigation, (3) climate science, and…
HB 510 would have lowered the age required to participate in elections as an election judge from 18 to 16. This bill would have allowed young people access into our elections and democracy sooner and more often — something we know increases not only turnout but helps young folks develop a sense of responsibility and…
#DYK that Montana is one of only four states that don’t allow someone under 18 to serve as an election judge? FMF high school leaders are working to change that by working with Rep. Jacob Bachmeier, the youngest legislator in Montana, to pass HB510. HB510 would allow 16-year-olds to serve as election judges. Learn more…
Forward Montana worked with partners at the Montana Human Rights Network, ACLU of Montana, Pride Foundation, and others to lead a successful effort to pass a non-discrimination ordinance in Missoula and then Bozeman. Forward Montana worked with volunteers and leaders at local high schools and college campuses to be sure youth voices were heard in…
In 2014, LR-126 a statewide ballot initiative to take away same-day voter registration in Montana reared its ugly head. In an effort that would create barriers to voting access for a number of people, more heavily impacting young people, low-income people, and people of color, Forward Montana, fought back. With a plan that included strong…
For years, there had been a convenient, accessible polling place on the campus of Montana State University. But in 2012, County Commissioners moved the polling place off-campus to the Hope Lutheran Church. Instead of being able to walk safely across campus, voters without access to a car have to travel a mi le along 19th…
In 2015, Forward Montana led a youth effort to pass two school bonds in Missoula County that would dramatically impact the quality of education for students. The bonds addressed areas of critical need, including updated technology infrastructure, safety and security, deferred maintenance and developing flexible learning spaces throughout the 9 elementary schools, 3 middle schools,…
