Richard Oakes | |
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Born | |
Died | September 20, 1972 | (aged 30)
Cause of death | Gunshot wound |
Nationality | Akwesasronon |
Occupation | Activist |
Known for | Occupation of Alcatraz |
Spouse | Annie Marrufo (1960-1972) |
Children | Richard Standing Tall Oakes JR., Yvonne Little Fawn Oakes, Joseph Oakes, Leonard Oakes, Rocky Oakes, Yvonne Oakes, Tanya Oakes |
Richard Oakes (May 22, 1942 – September 20, 1972)[1] was a Mohawk Native American activist. He spurred Native American studies in university curricula and is credited for helping to change US federal government termination policies of Native American peoples and culture. Oakes led a nineteen-month occupation of Alcatraz Island with LaNada Means, approximately 50 California State University students, and 37 others.[2] The Occupation of Alcatraz is credited for opening a rediscovered unity among all Native American tribes.[3]