Native Vote

American Indian Denise Juneau to Address National Democratic Convention Tonight

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – Denise Juneau, Mandan and Hidasta, is the top educator in Montana in her regular job, where she serves as the Montana State Superintendent of Public Instruction. This week she is attending the 2012 Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, as a delegate representing Montana and part of the Native American Council.

Denise Juneau with Mom Carol at Democratic Convention

Tonight she will address the Democratic National Convention at 7 pm, edt.

She will speak on behalf of the Native American Caucus.

“If we do not turn out, we have an opportunity to lose so much,”

she said.

“Put your moccasins on the ground, and go knock on doors.”

In addition to being part of the Native American Council, Juneau is serving chair of Montana's delegation to the 2012 Democratic National Convention. She is not lonely in Charlotte, because her mother is with her. Her mother, Carol, is also a delegate from Montana.

She followed her mother's footsteps in education and politics. Carol was a teacher on the Blackfeet Reservation and then spent twelve years in the Montana Legislature as state representative.

Beginning her career in education, first teaching at Fort Berthold Reservation, and then ascending to public office. As state superintendent Juneau has implemented an American Indian curriculum and continues to focus on closing the achievement gap for the most disadvantaged students.

Denise Juneau is the first American Indian in Montana to hold a statewide elected position. Juneau received a Bachelor's Degree in English at Montana State University. Her advanced degrees include a Master's Degree from Harvard Graduate School of Education and a law degree from the University of Montana.