Methods Employed by Indigenous Rights Movements

• Legal Challenges

  • Courts: Indigenous groups frequently turned to the judicial system to affirm treaty rights and land claims.
• Legal Challenges

  • International Law: Some indigenous leaders sought the intervention of international bodies, like the International Court of Justice.
• In 1870, the Dawes Severalty Act forced tribes to sell their lands and become individual property owners, leading to loss of communal ownership and cultural heritage
• The Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of 1934 aimed to reverse some of these policies and restore tribal sovereignty, but it was not fully implemented until decades later
• Native American activists played a significant role in shaping public opinion about indigenous issues through media campaigns and lobbying efforts
• The occupation of Alcatraz Island from 1969-1971 brought national attention to indigenous struggles and highlighted the need for self-determination and reparations
• Activism led to increased awareness of indigenous struggles and helped secure funding for programs that addressed poverty and health disparities among native communities
• Native American activists also advocated for greater representation in government and pushed for reforms in education and criminal justice systems
• Direct Action

  • Occupations: Sit-ins and occupations of significant sites, such as the occupation of Alcatraz Island in 1969 by Native Americans.
• Direct Action

  • Marches and Protests: Organised events to raise public awareness and apply political pressure.
• International Advocacy

  • UN Involvement: Engagement with the United Nations to seek support for indigenous rights as human rights.
• International Advocacy

  • Global Networks: Building alliances with indigenous groups in other countries.
• Cultural Promotion

  • Media: Creation of films, books, and music that express indigenous stories and perspectives.
• Cultural Promotion

  • Education: Development of educational resources and programmes that integrate indigenous knowledge and languages.