AIM-West to Host a Memorial Service to Honor Warrior Russell Means

Native News Network Staff in Native Briefs. Discussion »

OAKLAND, CALIFORNIA – A memorial service honoring the life of Russell Means will be held on behalf of family, friends and American Indian Movement of the San Francisco, and the Oakland Greater Bay Area, Sunday, December 9.

Russell Means as painted by Paul Collins

AIM-West, is the proud host of the memorial service that is open to the public and in honoring and celebrating the life of a Warrior, Russell Means.

“He will be replaced by thousands,”

said Bill Means, Russell Means' only surviving brother.

“One person is not going to replace him, but through his work, through his family, he will be replaced 1,000 times over.”

American Indian Movement cofounder, Russell Means died Monday, October 22 after a battle with throat cancer at the age of 72. He encouraged Indigenous peoples to take pride in their heritage, while challenging them to live it.

There will be guest speakers, including Elder Fred Short, an AIM spiritual advisor, will begin the afternoon program with a prayer and words for today's warrior to heed, and keep the spirit and struggle for self-determination alive. William "Jimbo" Simmons, will guide the memorial service, along with songs from Ohlone Nation by Luta Candelaria, and California Clappers, a drum, and honor songs by All Nation Singers, a solo guitar tribute by Dan G. Rodriguez, and a solemn flute performance by el companero Ernesto Olmos.

A special collection of photos by Sage, along with a brief documentary special for the occasion by Robert Kelly, will punctuate and encapsulate the warrior's achievements in life.

The last hour has been provided for friends and others who wish to share stories and bits of their friendship with Russ, or how Russell influenced their lives, or what inspires them enough to carry his spirit.

The public is invited. All AIM friends and supporters are welcomed. The memorial service begins promptly at 2 pm. There will be snacks, coffee and refreshments. Bring your favorite dessert to share.

WHAT:
A Memorial Service Honoring the Life of Russell Means

WHEN:
Sunday, December 9
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

WHERE:
Inter-Tribal Friendship House
523 International Boulevard
Oakland, California

The public is invited. All AIM friends and supporters are welcomed. The memorial service begins promptly at 2 pm. There will be snacks, coffee and refreshments. Your favorite desserts to share are appreciated.

For more information call 415.577.1492 or at www.aimwest.info

posted December 3, 2012 6:30 am est