The path to full citizenship for Arizona's Native Americans was riddled with repression and deliberate omissions designed to limit their role as American citizens.
It wasn’t until June 2, 1924, when President Calvin Coolidge signed the Indian Citizenship Act (also known as the Snyder Act) into law that Native Americans and Alaska Native Americans were granted full federal birthright rights.
At its regular meeting on June 4, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors voted to 100 members.Number Indian Citizenship Act Anniversary. Coconino County is proud of the diversity of our six Native American tribes: Hualapai, Hopi, Havasupai, Kaibab Band of Paiutes, San Juan Southern Paiutes and Navajo. Each tribe has a strong cultural heritage that is passed on to future generations and contributes greatly to the unique and special traditions of our county.
“The right to vote and run for office is the birthright of Americans, and despite past attempts to suppress Native American voices, we are here and our voice is strong,” said Coconino County District 5 Supervisor Lena Fowler. “Every election matters and I encourage all residents to register to vote, learn about the candidates, research ballot issues and cast their ballot in the July 30 primary and November 5 presidential elections.”
Historically, there have been several occasions when Native Americans were granted birthright citizenship. The Civil Rights Act of 1866 did not apply to Native Americans, and 14Number An amendment ratified in 1868. The Dawes Act of 1887 did not recognize Native American citizenship unless tribal members accepted individual cessions of land governed by federal rules and regulations.
In 1948, the Arizona Supreme Court upheld Native American voting rights in our state, but it wasn't until the passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1965 that Arizona officially recognized Native American voting rights. Furthermore, it wasn't until the 1970s that polling places became more accessible and English literacy requirements were lifted.
“Despite being able to serve in the military and playing a key role as Navajo codemen in World War II, Native Americans in Arizona did not have the right to vote until the 1970s,” said State Board of Supervisors Vice Chair Judy Begay. “The Indian Citizenship Act and subsequent measures recognized the inherent rights of Native Americans and marked the beginning of a movement for voting rights and equal representation in elected offices that continues today.”
While voting rights have made great strides since 1924, the commission recognizes that challenges remain for Native American voters, including the remoteness of communities, lack of physical addresses and lack of infrastructure.
On June 18, 2024, Coconino County will participate in the Navajo Voters Coalition Summit to encourage voting, provide information on how to register, and share polling location information. https://arizonanativevote.org/blog/navajo-voters-coalition-voters-conference For more information.
