The history of Native Americans in the United States is marked by oppression, discrimination, and systemic injustices. One of the most egregious examples of this is the wrongful death of Indigenous people. From police shootings to disappearances, the loss of Native American lives has become all too common. Despite the efforts of activists and advocates, justice is often elusive for these victims and their families. In this article, we will examine ten instances of wrongful death of Native Americans and shed light on the circumstances surrounding these tragedies.
Introduction: Overview of the Issue and its Historical Context
Native Americans have long faced injustice at the hands of those in power, both historically and in contemporary times. The issue of wrongful deaths of Native Americans is just one example of the systemic racism and disregard for Native American lives that has persisted for centuries. From Sarah Lee Circle Bear to LaVoy Finicum to Anna Mae Aquash, the following ten instances of wrongful deaths are just a small glimpse into the larger picture of injustice and brutality faced by Native Americans.
Native American History and Contemporary Issues
Native Americans have faced a long history of colonization, oppression, and forced removal from their lands. This legacy of mistreatment has contributed to the systemic inequalities and injustices that continue to impact Native communities today. From high rates of poverty and unemployment to inadequate access to healthcare and education, Native Americans continue to be marginalized and disproportionately impacted by social and economic issues.
Ten Instances of Wrongful Deaths
The following ten instances of wrongful deaths are just a few examples of the countless injustices faced by Native Americans:
1. Sarah Lee Circle Bear
2. LaVoy Finicum
3. Anna Mae Aquash
4. Paul Castaway
5. Loreal Tsingine
6. Allen Locke
7. Phillip Quinn
8. Matthew Shepard
9. John T. Williams
10. Eugene Yellow Horse
The Death of Sarah Lee Circle Bear
Background and Arrest
Sarah Lee Circle Bear was a 24-year-old Native American woman who was arrested on a bond violation in 2015. She was taken into custody at the Brown County Jail in South Dakota, where she exhibited signs of mental illness and drug withdrawal.
Circle Bear's Death
While in custody, Circle Bear was held in a holding cell without proper medical attention or supervision. She was found unresponsive in her cell and was later pronounced dead at a local hospital. Her cause of death was determined to be methamphetamine withdrawal, dehydration, and a urinary tract infection.
Investigation and Aftermath
The death of Sarah Lee Circle Bear sparked widespread outrage and calls for justice. An investigation into her death found that jail staff had failed to provide proper medical care and supervision, leading to her untimely death. The case also highlighted the larger issue of the mistreatment and neglect of Native Americans in the criminal justice system.
The Killing of Loreal Tsingine
Interactions with the Police
Loreal Tsingine, a 27-year-old Navajo woman, was shot and killed by police officer Austin Shipley in Winslow, Arizona in 2016. The encounter began when a convenience store employee called the police, claiming Tsingine had shoplifted. Shipley approached Tsingine and tried to apprehend her, but she resisted and the situation escalated. Shipley claims Tsingine was armed with scissors, but witnesses say they were in her handbag and they fell to the ground during the altercation.
Loreal's Death and Evidence
Shipley fired five shots, hitting Tsingine four times, including once in the heart. The autopsy report stated that Tsingine's blood-alcohol content was above the legal driving limit and she had methamphetamine in her system. However, the report also noted that the gunshot wounds were the cause of her death.
Legal Proceedings and Public Response
The shooting was investigated by the Navajo Nation Department of Justice, the Arizona Department of Public Safety, and the Winslow Police Department. In 2017, a grand jury decided not to indict Shipley, and the Department of Justice cleared him of civil rights violations. The Tsingine family filed a $10.5 million lawsuit against Shipley and the city of Winslow, which was settled for $1.5 million in 2019. The incident sparked public outrage and protests, with many criticizing the perceived excessive use of force by Shipley.
The Police Shooting of John T. Williams
Williams' Background and Encounter with Police
John T. Williams, a 50-year-old woodcarver from the Nuu-chah-nulth tribe, was shot and killed by Seattle police officer Ian Birk in 2010. Williams was partially deaf and had a history of mental illness. He was walking with a small carving knife when Birk approached him and ordered him to drop the knife. Williams didn't respond and Birk shot him four times.
Excessive Use of Force and Williams' Death
A subsequent investigation found that Williams had not made any threatening gestures toward Birk and the knife was not open. The report also noted that Birk had not followed proper procedure and had not given Williams enough of an opportunity to comply with his orders before resorting to deadly force.
Legal Proceedings and Settlement
Birk resigned from the police department and was not charged with a crime. However, the city of Seattle settled with Williams' family for $1.5 million and agreed to develop new police training programs to prevent similar incidents from happening in the future.
The Killing of Phillip Clay
Clay's Life and the Circumstances of His Death
Phillip Clay, a 41-year-old member of the Muckleshoot tribe, was shot and killed by Auburn police officer Jeff Nelson in 2019. Clay was known to struggle with drug addiction and had a history of run-ins with the law. Nelson was responding to a call about a man causing a disturbance at a gas station when he encountered Clay. Nelson claims that Clay attacked him with a screwdriver, but witnesses say Clay was unarmed and did not pose a threat.
Police Conduct and Legal Proceedings
The shooting was investigated by the King County Sheriff's Office and Nelson was charged with second-degree murder. However, a jury was unable to reach a verdict and a mistrial was declared. The case is currently being retried. The incident has led to increased scrutiny of police conduct and use of force by the Auburn Police Department.
Public Response and Activism
Clay's death sparked protests and activism in the Native American community, calling for justice and police reform. The Muckleshoot tribe has also called for an overhaul of the criminal justice system, citing systemic racism and bias against Native Americans.
The Killing of Paul Castaway
Castaway's Struggle with Mental Health and Police Interaction
Paul Castaway, a 35-year-old Lakota Sioux man, was shot and killed by Denver police officer Michael Traudt in 2015. Castaway had a history of mental health issues and alcohol addiction. He was holding a knife to his own throat when Traudt approached him. Traudt claims that Castaway began to approach him with the knife, but witnesses say Castaway was standing still and asking for help.
Castaway's Death and Evidence
Traudt fired two shots, hitting Castaway once in the chest. The autopsy report indicated that Castaway was heavily intoxicated at the time of his death. However, the report also noted that the gunshot wound was the cause of his death.
Activism and Community Response
Castaway's family and members of the Native American community have called for justice and accountability for his death. They argue that police officers are not properly trained to handle situations involving individuals with mental health issues or substance abuse disorders. The incident has sparked conversations about police reform and the need for more resources to support mental health and addiction treatment.The wrongful deaths of Native Americans are a tragic reminder of the injustices that continue to plague Indigenous communities in the United States. By highlighting these ten cases, we hope to raise awareness of these issues and encourage continued efforts towards justice and accountability. It is our duty to honor the lives lost and to work towards a future where such tragedies are no longer tolerated.
FAQ
What can be done to prevent wrongful deaths of Native Americans?
There are several ways to address this issue. One is to increase awareness and education about the history and present-day realities of Indigenous people. Another is to hold law enforcement accountable for excessive use of force and to advocate for policy changes at local, state, and national levels. Additionally, supporting Native-led organizations and initiatives can help empower communities and promote systemic change.
Why are these cases often overlooked or underreported in mainstream media?
The mainstream media has historically neglected or misrepresented stories related to Indigenous people. This can be attributed to systemic biases, limited resources, and a lack of understanding of Indigenous perspectives and experiences. However, alternative and independent media outlets have been instrumental in raising awareness and providing more accurate coverage of these issues.
What can I do to support Indigenous communities and justice efforts?
There are many ways to get involved and make a difference. You can start by educating yourself and others about the history and contemporary struggles of Indigenous people. Supporting Native-led organizations and initiatives, attending protests and demonstrations, and engaging in advocacy and activism are all important ways to support Indigenous communities and justice efforts. Additionally, being an ally involves listening to and following the leadership of Indigenous activists and organizations.
