An example of a Direct Nonviolent Action… (Many people’s reaction was also a good example of how people react to nonviolence and good points being made).
For 200 years we have said to the Indian people who are fighting for their land, their life, their families and their right to be free: ”Lay down your arms, my friends, and then we will remain together. Only if you lay down your arms, my friends, can we then talk of peace and come to an agreement which will be good for you.”
When they laid down their arms, we murdered them. [Read complete speech]
Marlon Brando’s Unfinished Oscar Speech, 1973, given by Sasheen Littlefeather on behalf of Marlon Brando, who wanted to decline the Best Actor Oscar for The Godfather. She said: “Marlon Brando … has asked me to tell you, in a very long speech which I cannot share with you presently—because of time—but I will be glad to share with the press afterward, that he… very regretfully cannot accept this very generous award. And the reason for this being… the treatment of American Indians today by the film industry… and on television in movie re-runs, and also the recent happenings at Wounded Knee. I beg at this time that I have not intruded upon this evening and that… in the future…our hearts and our understanding will meet with love and generosity. Thank you on behalf of Marlon Brando.”
American Indians Mourn Brando’s Death (Associated Press, 2004)
