Montana Gov. Steve Bullock (D) signs a proclamation declaring November 5 as Elouise Cobell Day surrounding by family and friends of the late Blackfeet Nation woman. Photo from Facebook
Montana Gov. Steve Bullock (D) proclaimed November 5 as Elouise Cobell Day in honor of the late Blackfeet Nation woman who secured accountability for Indian Country as part of a landmark lawsuit. Elouise Cobell was born on November 5, 1945. She was the lead plaintiff in the Indian trust fund lawsuit that led to a $3.4 billion settlement for individual Indian landowners. Her case, which she filed in 1996, also laid the groundwork for more than 80 additional settlements with tribal governments. "This day will serve as an enduring symbol of not only her contributions, but also a reminder to each of us to celebrate her lasting impact on her community, our state, and the nation," Bullock said on Facebook. Bullock issued the proclamation after state lawmakers earlier failed to take action on a bill to recognize Cobell on her birthday. It appeared that Republican lawmakers were punishing Democrats by holding back their legislation. Elouise was an amazing and courageous woman, she took on a battle that most would never dare to do, Cobell v. Salazar set the precedent for tribal trust cases," Western Native Voice, which had lobbied for the bill, said on Facebook. "She will always be remembered for the fight against governmental corruption that she took on for her people and all of Indian Country throughout the United States." Cobell died in 2011. Get the Story:
Nov. 5 will be Elouise Cobell Day (The Great Falls Tribune 11/6)
Governor Proclaims Elouise Cobell Day in Montana: 'A Warrior for All' (KRTV 11/5)
Bullock Honors Late Elouise Cobell with Nov. 5 Proclamation (The Flathead Beacon 11/5)
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