Chairman Robert Martin of the Morongo Band of Mission Indians kicked us off at INDN Campaign Camp with a charge to 46 aspiring leaders of Indian Country, 19 professional campaign trainers, and leaders of the Morongo Tribe: "I think it's time to put the red into the red, white and blue. The power of American Indians, as voters, as candidates, and as contributors can bring about great change in our country. It is within our reach."

"The Chairman's message that building political power in Indian Country is crucial to building a better future for American Indians," said INDN's List President Kalyn Free, "is the driving force behind INDN's List and our efforts at Campaign Camp. The support of Chairman Martin and the Morongo Tribal Council is yet another example of the visionary leadership that the Morongo Band of Mission Indians has shown for years."

Free concurred with Chairman Martin in his stated belief that "Only when we get involved in the political process are we truly represented," remarking that Campaign Camp is giving American Indians the tools and the know-how to run for and win elected office.  

Earlier in the day, participants attended sessions on campaign basics from Dan Lucas, Executive Director of 21st Century Democrats; on crafting an effective message from Erin Lehane of Political and Public Strategies; on opposition research from Anne Caprara, formerly of EMILY's List; on developing a political vision from Erin Lehane and Christine Pelosi; on campaign budgeting from Greg Lebel, professor at George Washington University; and developing a campaign plan from Tom Hughes and Arshad Hasan of Democracy for America, with Dan Lucas.

"By attending the Indian Campaign Camp, I finally can see myself as a viable candidate.  The training has helped me see how I can solidify my vision and win public office," said Maya Torralba, a Campaign Camp participant and a member of the Kiowa Tribe of Oklahoma. "Hearing the stories of other potential American Indian candidates has inspired me to go home and get to work on building my campaign."

Chairman Martin's remarks came at the conclusion of the first day of INDN Campaign Camp, the country's only campaign training specifically for American Indians running for office. The camp is being organized by INDN's List, a national, grassroots political organization dedicated to recruiting and training American Indian candidates to run for state and local office.

"Political America is waking up and discovering Indian Country," said the Morongo chairman in wrapping up the efforts of Campaign Camp and his tribe. "We are a part of the contemporary fabric of America. And we intend to make our voices heard."