Send us a text

     As we close out our series we jump into the Occupation of Alcatraz in 1965, a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for Native rights. Learn about the motivations, challenges, and triumphs of the activists who repurposed the abandoned island prison as a symbol of resistance and a demand for justice.
      The occupation was led by a group of Native American activists, primarily from the Red Power movement, who sought to draw attention to the historical and contemporary injustices faced by Indigenous peoples in the United States.
     The activists, who identified as part of the "Indians of All Tribes," highlighted the broken treaties, forced relocations, and cultural suppression that marked the history of Native Americans.
     The choice of Alcatraz, the former federal prison, as the site of the occupation was symbolic. Activists argued that the U.S. government had promised surplus federal land to Native Americans, and Alcatraz, being an unused federal property, represented a claim to these promised lands. Natives cited the Treaty of Fort Laramie (1868), which stated that abandoned federal lands could be reclaimed by Native peoples. They proclaimed the "Indians of All Tribes" as the rightful owners of Alcatraz.
     Living conditions on Alcatraz were challenging, with limited resources and harsh weather. The activists faced logistical difficulties, including the lack of fresh water and electricity. The occupation gained widespread media coverage, drawing attention to the issues faced by Native Americans. This coverage played a crucial role in raising awareness and garnering support for the broader Native American rights movement.
     While the Occupation was not necessary a success it is considered a pivotal moment in the Native American rights movement, inspiring subsequent activism and contributing to a shift in public perception and government policies toward Indigenous issues. The occupation laid the groundwork for future Indigenous activism and emphasized the importance of self-determination and cultural preservation for Native American communities.
    Join us as we breakdown the lesser-known yet impactful Occupation of Alcatraz, unveiling the profound implications it left on the indigenous rights movement in the United States. Explore the layers of this historic event, discovering its lasting legacy and the pivotal role it played in reshaping the narrative of Native American activism.
     

Merch store- https://indigenoustales.threadless.com/
Email us at [email protected]
Also check out our Instagram -https://www.instagram.com/indigenous_tales/
And our TikTok -https://www.tiktok.com/@indigenous_tales
Amanda Bland Dallas area Bakery
instagram - https://www.instagram.com/cupidsweetsbakes/
Cupid Sweets- https://www.facebook.com/cupidsweets