The Occupation of Alcatraz & Native American Rights

This is an assignment intended for students learning about Native American history, indigenous rights, the Red Power Movement, California history, the 60’s, the 70’s, activism and protest, and the history of Alcatraz Island. Educators should be aware this assignment does feature racial violence, specifically the murder of activist Richard Oakes. This assignment is a short reading regarding the Occupation of Alcatraz from 1969 to 1971, led by Richard Oakes, LaNada Means, and John Trudell. Following the reading are a series of reflection questions. These questions can be assigned as individual writing assignments or can be used to lead small group or full class discussions. This assignment can be used as a standalone assignment or tied into a larger unit. 

In addition, below I’ve provided a link to a short video on the occupation for teachers to share with students. The video creates a connection between the occupation and more current events, such as the Standing Rock Protests of 2016. 

This assignment falls under AP Government Connection: 3.10: Social movements and equal protection.

If you like this assignment, be sure to check out

• Native American Resistance & The American Frontier
• Native Americans and The Revolutionary War