Meet MTREP's Team

Bessie Dvora China Leipakumakaniokalani Ching (China Ching) (she/her) was named according to Native Hawaiian and Jewish traditions and is honored to carry names from the matrilineal lines of both her parents. 

For the past 20+ years, China has sought to build collective vision, community power and cultural vibrancy in our communities, institutions and systems. She brings a nuanced background in human and Indigenous rights, advocacy, community development, program design and development, leadership development, policy and liberated capital that work together to challenge structures of injustice and oppression while rooting in larger Indigenous worldviews that center on connection, reciprocity and interdependence. 

China has built relationships with and been in service to Indigenous Peoples and BIPOC communities throughout the United States and internationally and is well versed in the unique strengths, assets and challenges that BIPOC NGOs and community organizations face. China received her undergraduate degree from Connecticut College and her Master’s from Columbia University. 

Born and raised in Montana, China is honored to serve as the Montana Racial Equity Project’s Executive Director.

Ma Ka Hana Ka 'Ike 
(In working one learns. (Puku'i))