For What It's Worth Department: This news release arrived too late for the dead-tree edition of the Outpost:

A New Sign of Times
Indian and Montana People’s Action ask Hotel/Motel Association for Visible Commitment to Anti-Discrimination Policy.

Billings, MT. Colleen Simpson can still remember stories that her mother used to tell about not being able to stay in Billings hotels. “Signs were posted in the windows that said: NO DOGS or INDIANS.”

Colleen, a member of Indian People’s Action will join other members of IPA and members of Montana People’s Action on Wednesday to ask members of the Billings Hotel/Motel Association to post a new sign of times.

“Our offices in Missoula and Billings have routinely received complaints from people of color and people with disabilities about treatment in local hotels and motels.” Said Ann Mauldin, chair of the Billings MPA Chapter. “We decided it was time to be proactive and ask the hospitality industry of Billings to help us.”

Members of MPA and IPA visited with several hotel and motel managers this summer to ask about their commitment to non-discriminatory policies within their establishments. The vast majority of those managers were very welcoming and open to the ideas of community members.

“The outcome was the idea of posting a plaque in the hotel lobby that shows a visible and pro-active anti-discrimination policy.” Said Ann. “We want to follow with the NOT IN OUR TOWN theme; and show that Billings welcomes people of every race, religion, and ability.”

Indian People’s Action and Montana People’s Action hopes to get agreement from at least 30 Billings Hotels and Motels to post the 8” by 8” plaque that reads: This establishent is dedicated to fair and equitable treatment reguardless of race, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, or ability.

“I am excited at this possibility.” Said Colleen Simpson. “The idea that my children will remember a story about putting up signs welcoming Native American’s or anyone else-- is a huge step and a great history for Billings—a new sign of new times.” She laughed.
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