GRIC Hosts Voter Registration Events and Debate Watch Party

Emma Hughes

Gila River Indian News

In a vibrant show of civic engagement, the Gila River Indian Community continues to host a series of voter registration events throughout the Community, including a debate watch party on Sept. 10. The initiative aims to empower Community members to participate actively in the electoral process and stay informed about critical issues impacting their lives.

"It's important for our community members to really educate yourselves because these issues, they affect everyday life in the Gila River Indian Community," said Gov. Lewis. "They effect the tribal sovereignty of our Community, our water rights, they effect whether we have the resources." Voter registration events were held at various locations within the Community, providing members and residents with the resources and support needed to register to vote.

In partnership with Pinal and Maricopa County, GRIC leadership and volunteers were on hand to assist attendees with the registration process, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to make their voices heard in the upcoming elections. On Sept. 10, Community members gathered at the Boys & Girls Club of Gila River—Sacaton Branch for the presidential debate watch party.

"I am so glad we had the opportunity to attend the presidential watch party," said Miss Gila River Susanna Osife. "It was insightful to hear the perspectives of both candidates as they shared their visions for the future. It's so important to educate ourselves on the issues that impact our tribal communities. May it be a step towards encouraging everyone to vote and making our voices heard!"

Gov. Lewis emphasized the importance of voting by highlighting the legacy of the late Peter Porter and Rudolph Johnson, both members of the Gila River Indian Community.

In 1928, Porter and Johnson filed suit after being denied the right to vote in Pinal County. The Arizona Supreme Court determined that tribal members were considered "persons under guardianship" and could not vote. 20 years later, the case was overturned when Fort McDowell Yavapai members Frank Harrison and Harry Austin were also denied the right to vote. By hosting these events, GRIC is promoting voter registration and cultivating an informed electorate prepared to engage with the democratic process.

The Community's efforts reflect a broader commitment to enhancing civic participation and ensuring that tribal voices are front and center in the political arena. "Here in Arizona, tribal members of the 22 tribal nations didn't have the right to vote over a hundred years ago. It was two Community members, the late Peter Porter and Rudolph Johnson, that started the fight for our right to vote," said Gov. Lewis.