The final removal of Native Americans from Alcatraz Island • June 11, 1971
On June 11, 1971 Federal Marshalls unexpectedly came to the island and removed the last few Occupiers. The Occupation of Alcatraz Island by Native Americans had lasted for 19 months. The island was not given to the Indians, but word of their situation in the United States had been publicized all over the country and even abroad.
The four Occupiers on this photo were at the "Alcatraz Receiving Depot" on a pier by the Bay. They had just arrived in two boats with the Federal Marshalls. When I asked them if I could photograph them, Oohosis raised his fist with the Red Power salute. Even at this moment of "defeat" he wanted the world to see that the struggle continues.
It was a great co-incidence that I was able to take the photographs of the removal.
On this day, I had made my way to San Francisco from my little town on the coast, about one and a half hours away, to meet with an art editor at a public television station.
Just as I was opening my box of 8 by 10 pictures, a loud voice came over the loudspeaker, "The Indians are being taken from Alcatraz!" Everyone started running. I saw the film crew run by me and asked them if I could join them. "Just tag along and act as if you belong to us, someone said, such was the solidarity at the time, and so I grabbed my army bag with my cameras, got into the VW bus with the crew, looked from Treasure Island for the boats with the Indians and Federal Marshalls in them, found them, took some pictures and then greeted the Occupiers as they landed and climbed up to the the pier.
07.17.2011
Reader Comments (5)
We will be exhibiting at the Miami franchise show - great venue for new and existing franchisors - have been at this show every year since 2008 and always am impressed with the attendance and quality of leads.
Occupiers must leave this island. People should spread love not war
Capturing other's home is not good. People should live with love everywhere. Respect the humanity.
I will keep you updated with any progress. Once I have something that offers at least base functionality, I will touch base about how best to proceed.
thanks for the post