Profiled: Janet Robideau.(Interview)

HOMETOWN: Missoula, Montana

TRACK RECORD: member of American Indian Movement, founder of Indian People's Action in 1997, director of Montana People's Action in 2001. Robideau's work helped push Montana's largest progressive organization, which had defined itself mainly around poverty issues, to lead with race in their campaigns. Meanwhile, PA continues to be one of the only organizations building power and voice for urban Indians' issues.

What did you learn in the American Indian Movement?

AIM came to my reservation and that sparked my interest--finding a group of people who were fighting back and not just settling for anything. They pointed out to me that we could win by standing together, making a show of power. The best lesson I got that I've never lost was that we don't have to take anything lying down. That was my first real vision of power.

The occupation at Wounded Knee offered us an example of the power of the press. The National Guard was called, it was clear that they were willing to kill anyone who had the audacity to voice dissension. There was one reporter who told the powers that be that if the guard obliterated everyone at Wounded Knee, she would make sure that the story got told. The mood there was extremely hostile. it was just history repeating itself, because the history of this country is that if you don't do what "they" want, the answer is to obliterate you.

My AIM experience shaped my attitude forever toward fighting for change, standing up for what you believe in, and especially about power--who has it, what they do with it, and how it's abused. I'm willing to do whatever is necessary, because I'll be damned if you're gonna walk all over people. I'll be damned if I'll let you.

Describe the racial dynamics of organizing in Montana.