AIM was formed in 1968 in response to police brutality against Native peoples in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Original founders include Dennis Banks (Ojibwe, 1937-2017), Clyde Bellecourt (Ojibwe), Mary Jane Wilson (Ojibwe, 1937-2012), and Pat Ballanger (Ojibwe) among others. Prominent leaders who later joined the organization include Russell Means (Oglala Lakota, 1939-2012) and John Trudell (Santee Sioux, 1946-2015).
AIM laid the groundwork for widespread changes in federal policies and increased recognition of contemporary Native American communities. The organization continues to fight for equality with chapters still active across the country.
Native American occupation of Alcatraz on November 20, 1969 - Radio Free Alcatraz, hosted by John Trudell (Santee Sioux, 1946-2015)
In 1972, AIM organized the Trail of Broken Treaties, a march that ended with the occupation of the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) headquarters in Washington, D.C.
Other important AIM protest events include the siege and occupation of Wounded Knee in 1973 and
The Longest Walk, organized in 1978 by Dennis Banks (Ojibwe, 1937-2017)
A week after the 1978 Walk, Congress passed the American Indian Religious Freedom Act.
Learn More about AIM
Learn More about John Trudell
A Tribute to John Trudell
John Trudell was a poet, recording artist, actor and speaker whose international following reflects the universal language of his words, work and message.
Trudell was the spokesperson for the Indians of All Tribes' takeover of Alcatraz beginning in 1969, broadcasting as Radio Free Alcatraz. During most of the 1970s, he served as the chairman of the American Indian Movement, based in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Join us for Opening Evening
Friday October 6th - 6pm to 9pm
A friend of the tribe, poet, musician from his time with American Indian Movement, the occupation of Alcatraz, and lifelong activist who helped establish the American Indian Religious Freedom Act of 1978, giving us the freedom to practice, preserve and honor our ceremonies today!
We are honored to have John’s daughter, Sage Trudell, join us this year. Sage will be reading some of her father’s poems and sharing some of his unpublished works. Please join us!