Reno Sparks Indian Colony

We met with a new candidate to discuss the topic and after she was elected she introduced the bill. We worked with an advocacy group to ensure the legislation both met their needs and could be implemented, serving as a primary point of contact and strategist for the legislator moving forward. When the bill was looking like it might stall, we made a push with key legislators to garner their support for the bill. As coalition builders, we identified opportunities for advocates to testify in public settings and coordinated allies to speak directly with friendly board members. Through an integrated approach including social media, tele-town halls, one on one meetings and collaboration we developed a thorough approach to a big challenge.

In the end, being able to represent the Nevada Native community in a substantive way made the difference in successfully getting the legislation enacted.  Within two hours of the Nevada System of Higher Education posting the Native American Fee Waiver created by the legislation, the first form was submitted by a Native student.