BISMARCK — A descendant of the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara Nation and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa will receive the Hometown Hero award at the Seventh Annual Democratic-NPL Governors Dinner on Saturday, April 27, at the North Dakota Heritage Center in Bismarck.

Nicole Donaghy, of Bismarck, is a Hunkpapa Lakota from Standing Rock Nation. She is the executive director of North Dakota Native Vote and a staunch champion for voting rights and political representation, particularly for Native American communities in North Dakota.

“In a world where our voices are often silenced, my fellow sister and I fearlessly worked to take on the injustices that our people face,” said Lisa Finley-DeVille, D-Mandaree, Democratic-NPL vice chair and N.D. representative. “Together we’ve worked on holding polluters accountable, continue to fight for clean air and water standards, educating our people on the injustices brought forth on our lands, and building power for Native communities in North Dakota. It’s the tireless dedication of everyday citizens like Nicole, who believe in the power of collective action to create meaningful change. In the trenches of our communities, she worked to sow the seeds of progress, cultivating a future where justice, equality, and opportunity flourish. A natural grassroots organizer, her passion fuels the engine of democracy, and your commitment paves the road to a brighter tomorrow.”