The path to full citizenship for Native Americans in Arizona was rife with oppression and intentional omissions designed to limit their role as American citizens.
It wasn’t until President Calvin Coolidge signed into law the Indian Citizenship Act, also known as the Snyder Act on June 2, 1924, that full federal birthright citizenship was granted to Native Americans and Alaskan Native Americans.
COCONINO COUNTY — At their regular meeting on June 4, the Coconino County Board of Supervisors recognized the 100th Anniversary of the Indian Citizenship Act. Coconino County is proud to celebrate the diversity of the County’s six indigenous tribes, Hualapai, Hopi, Havasupai, Kaibab Band of Paiute, San Juan Southern Paiute and Navajo Nation, each who have a strong cultural legacy to pass on to the next generation that contributes greatly to the County’s unique and special heritage.
“The right to vote and run for office is an American birthright and despite the efforts of the past to stifle the Native American voice, we are here, and our voice is strong,” said Lena Fowler, Coconino County District 5 Supervisor. “Every election is important, and I encourage all residents to register to vote, learn about candidates, research ballot questions and vote in the primary election on July 30 and presidential election on November 5.”
There were several opportunities throughout history to extend birthright citizenship to native Americans. The Civil Rights Act of 1866 didn’t apply to Native Americans, neither did the 14th Amendment ratified in 1868. The Dawes Act of 1887 denied Native American citizenship unless tribal members accepted individual land grants that were governed by federal rules and regulations.
In 1948 the Arizona Supreme Court upheld voting rights for Native Americans in our state, however it was not until the Civil Rights Act of 1965 that Arizona officially recognized Native American voting rights. Further, it wasn’t until the 1970s that polling places were accessible and the English literacy requirement was removed.
“Despite being able to enlist in the military and serve a pivotal role as Navajo Code Talkers in World War II, Native Americans in Arizona were not able to vote until the 1970s,” said Judy Begay, Vice Chair of the Board of Supervisors. “The Indian Citizenship Act and the actions that followed recognized the inherent rights of Native Americans and began the push that still exists today for equality in access to voting and representation in elected positions.”
Voting rights have come a long way since 1924, but the Board acknowledges there are still challenges for Native American voters including the remote nature of communities, lack of physical addresses, and lack of infrastructure.
On June 18, 2024, Coconino County will participate in the Navajo Nation Voter’s Coalition Summit to encourage voting, provide information about how to register, and share polling location information. Visit https://arizonanativevote.org/blog/navajo-voters-coalition-voters-conference more information.