Early this morning, after a long struggle with cancer, Russell
Means went to join his ancestors from his family's ranch in
Porcupine, South Dakota. Russell was an inspirational leader,
not just for Native Americans but for those of all races and
backgrounds who believe that life demands that we be free. As a
writer, an activist and as an performer Russell touched many
people and leaves behind a unique legacy in those he inspired to
live free. His message that what government has done to his
people would one day be the fate of all people if government was
not checked was prophetic and must be remembered. "Increment by
increment...you have allowed your country to implement Indian
law in the United States of America. American government since
the inception of the Bureau of Indian Affairs in 1824 has been
busy practicing and perfecting its policies on us and then
exporting them to the world and bringing them home to roost ont
he backs of the American people." Russell Means was born on
South Dakota’s Pine Ridge Si