My name is Maggie Bornstein and I am currently in my sophomore year at the University of Montana, where I study African-American studies. Originally from Massachusetts, the first time I registered to vote in Montana was with FMF, and it wasn’t long after that I became an intern, then a fellow, and now and ambassador…
As Summer heats up so does our work to make sure that 6-Mill Levy passes. For those of you who haven’t heard of the 6-Mill Levy, here is a quick synopsis: 1. It’s almost as old as my grandpa at 70 years old. 2. On average it costs $24 a year on a $200,000 home…
Our first annual statewide Democracy Days took place last week in 11 high schools across the state! Through Democracy Days we registered over 120 students to vote and empowered 10 student leaders with the skills they need to make change in their communities. For other high school-aged students looking to get involved with our work – check out our upcoming GOTV…
Forward Montana worked with partners at the Montana Human Rights Network, ACLU of Montana, Pride Foundation, and others to lead a successful effort to pass a non-discrimination ordinance in Missoula and then Bozeman. Forward Montana worked with volunteers and leaders at local high schools and college campuses to ensure youth voices were heard in this…
In 2014 LR-126, a statewide ballot initiative to take away same-day voter registration in Montana, reared its ugly head. In an effort that would create barriers to voting access for a number of people–more heavily impacting young people, low-income people, and people of color–Forward Montana fought back. With a plan that included strong alliances and…
For years, there had been a convenient, accessible polling place on the campus of Montana State University. But in 2012, County Commissioners moved the polling place off-campus to the Hope Lutheran Church. Instead of being able to walk safely across campus, voters without access to a car have to travel a mi le along 19th…
In 2015 Forward Montana led a youth effort to pass two school bonds in Missoula County that would dramatically impact the quality of education for students. The bonds addressed areas of critical need, including updated technology infrastructure, safety and security, deferred maintenance, and developing flexible learning spaces throughout the 9 elementary schools, 3 middle schools,…
