Late Russell Means to be Honored on 40th Anniversary of Wounded Knee Occupation

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

PORCUPINE, SOUTH DAKOTA – Soon after Russell Means walked on last October 22, his family announced four events to celebrate his life. Russell Means, a self-described "Oglala Freedom Fighter", began his journey to the spirit world on October 22, 2012 at 4:44 am, with the Morning Star, at his home and ranch in Porcupine.

Second Honoring - February 27

The family has announced the "Second Honoring - The Life of Russell Means" for Wednesday, February 27, in conjunction with the 40th Anniversary of the Wounded Knee 1973 Occupation that began on February 27, 1973. Means played a significant leadership role forty years ago as part of the American Indian Movement leadership.

The honoring will highlight his life, leadership and the eternal fire that he re-ignited throughout Indian country.

The event will be held at Pine Ridge School in the old gymnasium, west of campus, on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. Doors open at 4:00 pm.

Dinner will be served at the Pine Ridge School Cafeteria at 5:00 pm. The honoring service will begin at 6:00 pm. The event will include guest speakers, including relatives, Wounded Knee veterans and visiting dignitaries.

Chris Eagle Hawk, Oglala Lakota, will be the Eyapaha, announcer, along with the Creekside Singers as the honor drum. Scotti Clifford, Oglala Lakota, of "Scatter Their Own" will perform an honor song. The Means family is sponsoring a traditional giveaway at this honoring.

The Third Honoring - The Life of Russell Means will be at Wind Cave State Park, South Dakota at a yet to be determined date in June. The Third Honoring - The Life of Russell Means will coincide with his birthday, Nov 6-10 in Denver, Colorado.

The family is encouraging monetary contributions to advance the visionary work of Russell Means. Donations can be made at:www.treatyschool.org »

Donations can also be sent to:

TREATY Total Immersion Educational Endowment Fund
Administrative Office
PO Box 110
San Jose, NM 87565

posted February 25, 2013 8:40 am est