Madonna Soctomah facts for kids

Madonna M. Soctomah is an important leader from the Passamaquoddy people in Maine. She has worked hard to represent her community. She served as a special representative for the Passamaquoddy Nation in the Maine House of Representatives.

Soctomah was chosen by her people for this role four times. She served two-year terms in 2000, 2002, 2010, and 2012. Her job was to speak up for the Passamaquoddy people in the state government.

Representing Her People

Madonna Soctomah was a unique voice in the Maine House of Representatives. She was a "non-voting tribal representative." This means she could join discussions and share ideas. She could also introduce new laws, called "bills." But she did not cast votes on the final laws.

Her main goal was to make sure the Passamaquoddy Nation's needs were heard. She worked to improve life for her community. This role helps connect the tribe's government with the state government.

Working for Economic Growth

Soctomah has always been a strong supporter of ways to help her tribe's economy. She believed that new businesses could create jobs and opportunities for the Passamaquoddy people.

One of her main ideas was to create a special business facility. During her first time in the House, she suggested a bill to allow her tribe to run such a place. In 2012, she tried again to pass a bill for a similar project in Washington County. Her efforts aimed to bring more economic growth to her community.