UNC program director running for state senate

Solomon Little Owl is the director of the University of Northern Colorado's Native American Student Services, a husband, father of two, a graduate student and candidate for Colorado Senate District 13.

Little Owl's year-long plans took shape when he declared candidacy as a Democrat for the upcoming election to replace Sen. Dave Owen, R-Greeley, who is term-limited but plans to run against Rep. Jim Reisberg, D-Greeley this year. It's expected Little Owl will run against Rep. Dale Hall, R-Greeley.

About 20 people cheered and clapped when Little Owl spoke at 5 p.m. Friday on the corner of 9th Avenue and 9th Street, just outside the Weld County Courthouse.

"I expected five people to show up," Little Owl said as he thanked everyone.

Little Owl, a Crow Indian, talked about growing up on a reservation in Montana and discussed his time as a U.S. Marine and his move to Greeley in 1996.

"I didn't sleep last night," Little Owl said. "This is such a big step."

He enjoys community involvement and believes a Senate seat is his next step.

Little Owl attended UNC from 1997 to 2000 and graduated with a bachelor's in social science with an emphasis in geography and economics. He took a strong stance against Eaton High School's mascot, the Reds, and attracted national attention when he headed up a UNC intramural basketball team, called the Fightin' Whites in March 2002.

He chose the name to help shed light on the exploitation of American Indians as mascots. Little Owl wants a stronger focus on education, beginning in elementary school, and to strengthen and unite the community.

Little Owl said he will have a strong presence in the community and work alongside the people he plans to represent.