Various active Native American tribes mourn today as a great friend and activist has now departed. Russel Means, an Oglala Sioux activist, and active member of the American Indian Movement (AIM) has died today (Monday, October 22nd, 2012).
Means became involved with the American Indian Movement in 1968. At the start of his involvement, Means participated in various protests and occupations, later becoming a prominent leader of the group; however, Means left the movement in 1974 to run for the presidency of his native tribe Oglala Sioux (OST) against the incumbent Richard Wilson. He also started working with and keeping relations with the United Nations to have their heritage visible within its workings.
Means also developed an acting career, and is mostly known for his role as Chief Chingachgook in The Last of the Mohicans. He also portrayed the voice of Powhatan in Pocahontas (1995), along with its sequel Pocahontas II: Journey to a New World (1998). Recently, Means starred a role in the movie Pathfinder (2007), where Vikings battle against Native Americans.
On October 22nd, 2012, Russell Means passed away due to a longer battle with cancer at the age of 72. Various fans and supporters of Means’ traditions, acting, and beliefs have left their respects via Twitter:
My heart breaks at the sad,sad news. My hero and inspiration,Russell Means, has passed away at 72.Hero, activist,warrior. RIP Russell.
I just heard Russell Means died. Hopefully their is a afterlife since I always wanted to chat with him.
Sad day for US Native Americans across the U.S, Rest In Peace Russell Means. Activist and advocate for our indigenous people…
RIP Russell Means – Thanks for being awesome. And writing the best answers to Marxism ever.