Alcatraz (island occupation)

The Alcatraz Island occupation occurred in 1969 when a group of Native American activists, mainly from the Lakota tribe, occupied the former federal prison to protest its closure and advocate for Native rights. They aimed to draw attention to injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and assert their sovereignty. The occupation lasted for 19 months, drawing national and international media coverage, and became a pivotal moment in Native American activism. It helped raise awareness about Native issues, inspired future activism, and contributed to a broader movement for Native American rights and treaty enforcement.