Gloria Wiggins on getting out the Indigenous vote in 2026 - ICT
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Wisconsin Native Vote organizer Gloria Wiggins discusses working to boost turnout among Indigenous voters of all ages around the state in 2026 and the issues that are priorities in tribal communities.

Erica Ayisi
Here & Now, ICT News

Erica Ayisi:
What are some of the challenges with getting out the message to vote?

Gloria Wiggins:
The younger generation feels that their vote does not matter.

Erica Ayisi:
But what are some of the issues that you’re hearing for the younger populations that are really, really important to them at this time?

Gloria Wiggins:
The issues that are important for the younger generation here in Native communities is mental health services.

Erica Ayisi:
And how do you encourage them?

Gloria Wiggins:
We have cultural connections. I did one session with our elders, and then I did a second session with the community. And a lot of younger people came to do an ash-weaving bracelet.

Erica Ayisi:
What about middle-aged and older populations and families? What are some key issues that are important to them at this time with voting?

Gloria Wiggins:
Housing, clean water, mental health services. Substance abuse is an issue — treatment is not readily available. And sovereignty.

Erica Ayisi:
Have you seen an increase in voters?

Gloria Wiggins:
The voting has increased exponentially in the Menominee, Red Cliff and Bad River — over 50% increase.

Erica Ayisi:
Do you have any other specific approaches for older populations?

Gloria Wiggins:
We table at all of the powwows in Wisconsin. Each organizer is assigned to their areas. So, they will attend the powwows, table at the powwows, offer information.

Erica Ayisi:
How do your pledge cards work?

Gloria Wiggins:
Our pledge cards work at tabling. We ask them if they could sign the pledge card, they mark down what issues are most important to them. And when the election comes, we mail it back to them.

Erica Ayisi:
How are voters — tribal voters — how concerned are they about the recent Enbridge gas leaks?

Gloria Wiggins:
Water is life. So hopefully, you know, they can do their research and make a determination where they stand and vote on what is right.

Erica Ayisi:
Are tribal IDs a valid form of ID for voting?

Gloria Wiggins:
Yes, tribal IDs are a federal recognized identification that can be used for voting.

Erica Ayisi:
How does the belief of seven generations play a part in voting for tribal communities?

Gloria Wiggins:
Indigenous communities are always thinking of the future generations, on the decisions they will make to ensure the rights and sovereignty and resources are protected and advanced for our future generations.

This report is in collaboration with our partners at ICT.

The post Gloria Wiggins on getting out the Indigenous vote in 2026 appeared first on ICT.

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