Activist/ Actor Russell Means Has Passed Away at age 72

It is with deep regret that I report that Russell Means passed away today at the age of 72. Means died from throat cancer, leaving behind a legacy off and on the big screen. He did so much for the Native American people, and played some very memorable roles, especially in “Last of the Mohicans”. Here is an excerpt from the Associated Press article, you can read all about Means accomplishments in the full article, which is here. Our prayers go out to Means family and friends. Rest in Peace, sir.

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) — Russell Means spent a lifetime as a modern American Indian warrior. He railed against broken treaties, fought for the return of stolen land and even took up arms against the federal government.

A onetime leader of the American Indian Movement, he called national attention to the plight of impoverished tribes and often lamented the waning of Indian culture. After leaving the movement in the 1980s, the handsome, braided activist was still a cultural presence, appearing in several movies.

Means, who died Monday from throat cancer at age 72, helped lead the 1973 uprising at Wounded Knee — a bloody confrontation that raised America’s awareness about the struggles of Indians and gave rise to a wider protest movement that lasted for the rest of the decade.