The chairman of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes delivered the State of the Tribal Nations at the Montana Legislature on Wednesday.

Fred Matt hailed "a new day in Montana" as tribal governments and the state work together to address common issues. He praised Gov. Brian Schweitzer (D) for including Indians and his administration, and thanked Republicans and Democrats for introducing laws to benefit tribes.

Matt called on the Legislature to fund the Indian Education for All mandate that is part of the state's constitution. The state has until October to come up with a plan to ensure tribal culture history is taught in public schools.

Get the Story:
Indian leader: 'New day in Montana' (The Missoulian 2/10)
Tribal address seeks lawmakers' support (AP 2/9)

Relevant Links:
Montana-Wyoming Tribal Leaders Council - http://tlc.wtp.net