[In the presidential campaign] American Indians are the lost issue because we lack the majority we need to actually count. State by state we matter, but nationally we don’t. We make up a percentage that doesn’t put a dent in a candidate’s quest for office. Many people who don’t understand the struggles on the reservation will not understand the point that I am trying to make: that Natives constantly fight to survive. Yes we are living – our families put food on the table, clothe our kids just like other Americans – but we lack recognition. Poverty may plague America but it hits Indian tribes hardest.
When America neglects its veterans, it has a double effect on Indian veterans. When presidential candidates talk about health care, we get health care – but only in IHS clinics or hospitals because many can’t afford health care outside of the reservation. We survived on broken promises, genocide and neglect. Our forefathers, our chiefs, signed papers to protect their people from harm so we can live in the richness of American freedom. What helps us live day to day are strength and unity – strength from the constant burdens we carry, and unity within each tribe. One candidate believed in unifying two Americas; I believe that American Indians live in that other America.
I believe that we will continue to survive with a voice in America [that is] no louder than a whisper, no louder then a pin dropping. Like a single drop in a puddle, the wave will resonate and our strength will grow. Our voice will get louder all from one word: unity.
– Sidney Fox
Ashland, Mont.