Native American Caucus Member Visits WPHS

Wolf Point Native American Studies teacher Tressa Welch hosted Native American Caucus member Tyson Runningwolf April 7. Runningwolf is a legislative member with the Montana House representing District 16. Welch told the Northern Plains Independent that Runningwolf spoke to students about contemporary Indian issues like poor quality healthcare, education, housing, etc., as well as topics like missing and murdered indigenous persons and drug and alcohol abuse in the community. Welch said WPHS principal Kim Hanks helped facilitate Runningwolf ’s visit.

“They are learning to create solutions,” Welch said. She said students were encouraged to seek possible solutions to the kinds of problems and limitations endemic to the reservation.

Welch said the conversation went both ways. Seventh grader Kashtin Lizotte spoke to Runningwolf about the Tribal Code of Education. Welch said he gave a detailed report on the subject and suggested improvements.

Welch said she works to connect students with Native leaders in the community. “I’m just creating a doorway,” said Welch.

Runningwolf can be reached at 406-845-2115 or by writing to trwolves@gmail. com.