By Marcel Blackbird (Omaha Tribe of Nebraska), Little Priest Tribal College
As a Native American living on the Winnebago Reservation, democracy means having a voice, accepting responsibility, and working for the good of the community. Long before the United States was founded, Native nations had systems of leadership, governance, and collective decision making that emphasized accountability and service to the people. Those traditions continue today through tribal governments, community involvement, and the guidance of our elders.
My understanding of democracy comes not only from my Native heritage, but also from my life experiences. I am a former incarcerated individual who was given a second chance to rebuild my life. There was a time when I felt disconnected from my community and uncertain whether my voice mattered. Through perseverance, service, and personal growth, I learned that democracy is not just about having rights; it is about taking responsibility for the future of your community.
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned, has come from my paternal grandfather who served as Chairman of the Omaha Tribe. He often told me, “You can never please everyone. As a tribal leader you need to do what is going to be the most beneficial for majority of the tribe.” That lesson has stayed with me throughout my life. Democracy is not about making everyone happy. It is about listening, weighing different perspectives, and making decisions that strengthen the community.
Today, as a member of the Winnebago Tribe Utility Board, I carry that lesson with me. Democracy is not something I simply vote for—it is something I practice by helping make decisions that affect the lives of tribal members today and future generations.
As America approaches its 250th anniversary, I believe Native people should be included as living nations and living communities, not just as part of the distant past. Too often, Native Americans are discussed only in history books, while our modern contributions and challenges are overlooked.
The story of America did not begin in 1776. Native nations existed here long before the founding of the United States, with their own governments, economies, cultures, and systems of leadership. America’s 250th anniversary should recognize that truth while also celebrating the resilience of Native peoples who continue to preserve our languages, traditions, and sovereignty.
I want future generations to learn not only about the hardships Native people endured, but also our strength, innovation, and continued contributions to society. Native voices should have a seat at the table in conversations about America’s past, present, and future.
Reclaiming democracy begins with participation. As Native people, we reclaim democracy by voting, serving our communities, protecting tribal sovereignty, supporting education, and encouraging our youth to become future leaders. We reclaim democracy by making sure Native voices are heard in local, tribal, state, and national conversations.
As Americans, we reclaim democracy by remembering that every person has value and deserves an opportunity to contribute. My own experiences taught me how easy it is to feel excluded from society after making mistakes. Democracy becomes stronger when people are given opportunities to learn, grow, and participate rather than being permanently defined by their past.
For me, democracy is ultimately about hope. It is about believing that people can change, communities can grow stronger, and future generations can build on the sacrifices of those who came before them. As a Native man, a father, a community volunteer, and a tribal board member, I believe reclaiming democracy means honoring our history while actively shaping a better future for the next seven generations.