Representative Tyson Running Wolf

Tyson “Makoyiisapo” (Wolf Plume) was born and raised on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana, USA. He is a traditional ceremonialist of the Niitsiitapii (Real People) consisting of four bands- Kanai, Sisiika, North Peigan, and Blackfeet (Amskapii Piikunii), that make up the Blackfoot Confederacy. Tyson and his wife currently hold a sacred Medicine Thunder Pipe that is passed down from ancient knowledge that directly ties to the Niitsitapii way of life. They also recently became the leaders of the Horn Society of Amskapii Piikunii, a holy Buffalo society that has not been active for over 106 years. Tyson plays a critical role in bringing back the strength of their people by taking on these great responsibilities. Most recently, Tyson completed his 2 session in the Montana House of Representatives as a legislator where he also served as a Minority Whip. He has one more year to complete his 2-terms. Tyson received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Montana in Forestry Resource Management 2001. He also previously sat as the elected Secretary of the Blackfeet Tribe for four years. During his term on council he has been the Law and Order Chairman, the Fish and Wildlife Chairman and has served on committees that directly impact Natural resources. Tyson was also instrumental in the current Blackfeet Water Settlement Act, The Blackfeet Land Buy Back program, Red Eagle fire settlement, the protection of the Badger / Two Medicine from oil and gas development, and the financial stability of the Blackfeet Tribal government. His work in Indian country includes protecting traditional territory and sites from economical intrusion as well as to participate in tribal and Indigenous advocacy. He is proud to have participated in the recent reintroduction of the Elk Island Buffalo in April 2016, (gone for over 100 years) to the Blackfeet Tribe and a signature to the Buffalo Treaty. In 2014, he became elected as the Secretary for the Blackfeet Tribal Business Council.