Remembering the Indigenous occupation of Alcatraz

This week marks the 54th anniversary of the occupation of Alcatraz Island, a 19-month-long protest during which Indigenous people and their supporters demanded that the U.S. honor longstanding agreements with tribes.

How it happened: Led by Mohawk Native American activist Richard Oakes and Indigenous college students, the occupation was intended to reclaim the island, which was the site of a defunct federal prison previously used by tribal populations prior to colonization.

Details: Protesters wanted the deed to the island for "Indians of All Tribes." But as time passed, the federal government began shutting off electrical power and cutting off fresh water sources.

• While protesters had quickly organized an elected council and delegated roles for things like housing, cooking and security, the movement started fracturing amid leadership disagreements.
• Armed federal authorities ambushed the island on June 10, 1971, and forcibly removed the remaining protesters.

The big picture: It's seen as one of the greatest acts of Indigenous political resistance in U.S. history and continues to galvanize Indigenous people across the nation today.