From Policy to Action: A Tribal Voices Gathering
MBPC will be hosting its biennial Tribal Voices Gathering (formerly the Tribal Symposium) in-person on November 10, in Helena. Registration is now open. If you have Indigenous staff or Tribal partners who may be interested in attending, please feel free to share this! MBPC is providing a limited number of scholarships for attendees who may need help covering travel expenses.
ABOUT THE GATHERING
From Policy to Action: A Tribal Voices Gathering brings together leaders from Tribal Nations, Tribal colleges, state policymakers, and community advocates for a day of critical dialogue ahead of the 2027 Legislative Session. This gathering represents a unique opportunity to plan for advancing state policies that honor Tribal sovereignty and improve outcomes for Native communities.
What: From Policy to Action: A Tribal Voices Gathering
When: Tuesday, November 10, 2026, 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where: Montana Heritage Center, 225 Roberts St.
Helena, Montana
Who: Leaders from Tribal Nations, Tribal colleges, students, Indian caucus legislators, and Indigenous advocates are encouraged to attend!
To register, visit: https://www.montanabudget.org/event-details/from-policy-to-action. (MBPC will be providing a limited number of scholarships to help cover registration and travel and hotel expenses for attendees. To request a scholarship, please email admin@montanabudget.org.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Tribal Nations are essential contributors to the state’s economy, culture, and civic life. Yet meaningful collaboration between state government and Tribal communities requires intentional spaces for dialogue, education, and relationship-building. This gathering creates that space by equipping attendees with practical tools for legislative engagement while fostering connections that extend far beyond a single day.
WHAT ATTENDEES WILL EXPERIENCE
The gathering offers a mix of educational sessions and expert panels designed for real-world application:
Foundational Sessions provide grounding in Montana’s investments & budget process, its impact on Indian Country, how a bill becomes law, and strategies for communicating effectively through civic engagement and advocacy.
Expert Panels bring together Tribal leaders, healthcare advocates, artists, and elected officials to address pressing issues: the current state of Tribal consultation in Montana; pathways toward meaningful government-to-government engagement; protecting Medicaid coverage; addressing the maternal health crisis affecting Indigenous women; and securing equitable funding for Tribal colleges in Montana.
