Monument at Capitol to Honor Native Americans

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana will install a permanent monument on the state Capitol grounds recognizing Native American contributions to the state and nation.

Gov. Steve Bullock on Thursday held a ceremonial signing of legislation to erect a monument and display the flags of the state’s eight recognized Native American tribes.

The bill’s sponsor, Democratic Rep. Marvin Weatherwax of Browning, called it a big honor and “well overdue.”

Bullock says the monument will be a symbol of respect and understanding, and a recognition that the Capitol belongs to everybody.

The measure was part of a package of bills Bullock signed dealing with Native American issues, including legislation meant to improve the response to reports of missing American Indian women.