Morgan Gray, Class of 2024, Deputy VP of Student Enrichment Services for the Student Bar Association, brings a unique perspective to the legal realm as a proud citizen of the Chickasaw Nation. Before GW Law, Gray served as a telecommunications and broadband policy analyst for the Chickasaw Nation, demonstrating a commitment to addressing the needs of Tribal Nations. Motivated by a desire to serve Indigenous communities at a higher capacity, Gray recognizes the historical challenges faced by Tribal Nations, emphasizing the importance of understanding this complex history for future advocates and attorneys.
In the spirit of Native American Heritage Month, Gray celebrates the sacrifices of ancestors who persevered through atrocities, including forced removal from ancestral homelands and the hardships of Indian boarding schools. Seeking to honor and make ancestors proud, Gray underscores the significance of acknowledging and supporting Indigenous communities. At GW Law, Gray is actively working to establish a chapter of the Native American Law Student Association (NALSA), aiming to create a community of future advocates for Indian Country. This effort aligns with Gray's belief that increasing awareness of Indigenous history is essential for maintaining a strong government-to-government relationship between Tribal Nations and the U.S.
As part of recognizing Native American Heritage Month, Gray encourages students, faculty, and staff alike to engage in meaningful actions, such as acknowledging the original inhabitants of the land, supporting Indigenous-owned businesses, and advocating for policies that enhance Tribal sovereignty. Additionally, she encourages the acknowledgment of the original inhabitants where the George Washington University campus resides, recognizing the historical presence and stewardship of the Piscataway and Anacostian Peoples in the region. Finally, she concludes with an invitation to explore local Native American history through visits to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian.
If you are interested in learning more about a Native American Law Student Association chapter at GW Law, please indicate your interest by completing this google form.