The Experience of Native American Elected Officials in South Dakota

What is it about?

A key political ideal is that all citizens have equal access to the political system through voting and holding political office. Unfortunately, throughout history we have seen far too many attempts to undermine political equality by state governments erecting barriers to voting and running for political office. Although there is a large academic literature on voting rights barriers, researchers have largely ignored those affecting Native Americans. In this study, we conducted in-depth interviews with Native Americans, who have served in elected office in South Dakota, a state with a very troubled history of discrimination against indigenous peoples.

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Why is it important?

This is the very first study to examine the formal and informal barriers that Native elected officials encounter. They have to contend with a political system that can be hostile or at the very least indifferent to the needs of Native Americans. At the same time they must contend with the deep distrust and cynicism that their own people feel towards "white government."

Perspectives