By Joli Miller (Menominee Tribe of Wisconsin), College of Menominee Nation
As a College of Menominee Nation (CMN) student pursuing a degree of liberal studies, democracy to me is more than just government; it’s about voice, identity, and being seen. Growing up, I didn’t always see Native people represented in the way democracy is taught in school. It often felt like Native nations were left out of the story, even though we’ve always had our own systems of leadership and community decision making.
In our community, democracy is not just about individual rights; it’s about collective responsibility. It exists in how we take care of each other and how we respect the land. Our traditions teach us to think about future generations, and that shapes how decisions are made. This way of being is something I believe broader American democracy could learn from.
When it comes to America’s 250th anniversary, I want Native history to be included in a real and meaningful way, not just as a side note, but as a central part of the story. This country was built on Native land, and our histories are tied to everything America is today. I think it’s important that people understand both the hard truths and the resilience of Native communities. We are not just part of history; we are still here, still creating, still growing.
To me, reclaiming democracy starts with education and storytelling. It means making space for Native voices in classrooms, media, and everyday conversations. It also means reconnecting with our own cultures, languages, and traditions. When we know who we are and where we come from, it becomes easier to speak up and take part in shaping the future.
As both Native people and as Americans, reclaiming democracy means making it more inclusive and honest. It means recognizing that democracy should work for everyone, not just a few. For Native communities, it also means continuing to protect our sovereignty and our ways of life.
For me, democracy is about being heard and making sure future generations don’t feel invisible the way many of us once did.
