Raising Awareness

The Jeannette Rankin Peace Center's Indigenous Arts & Education Program is dedicated to uplifting Indigenous voices, strengthening cultural understanding, and fostering meaningful relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities throughout Western Montana. Through Indigenous-led art markets, educational workshops, cultural events, and community partnerships, we create welcoming spaces where people can learn from one another, celebrate Indigenous cultures, and engage in dialogue rooted in respect and compassion.

Guided by Indigenous leaders and community members, the program expands opportunities for Indigenous artists, educators, and advocates by providing free space to showcase and sell their work, share their knowledge, and connect with the broader community. By removing financial barriers and centering Indigenous leadership, we support cultural resilience while creating opportunities for education, economic empowerment, and community connection.

The program also raises awareness of important issues affecting Indigenous communities, including Missing and Murdered Indigenous Relatives (MMIR), through public education, advocacy, and collaborative events that inspire understanding and action.

This year, JRPC partnered with organizations including All Nations Health Center, Mika Matters, the Red Sand Project, the Western Montana Fair, the Zootown Arts Community Center (ZACC), and the Human Sex Trafficking Task Force. Together, we created opportunities for Indigenous artists, performers, and educators to be fairly compensated while reaching thousands of community members through events, exhibitions, and educational programming.