Native American Occupations of Alcatraz

Black and white photo of large group of indigenous people, seated and standing, in the central isle of a prison block. The second tier of prison cells recede into the distance, with more people leaning on its railing, above the crowd. — Members of the Indians of All Tribes pose on Broadway in the Alcatraz cellhouse during the 1969-71 occupation of the island.
©Art Kane

In 1964, and again in 1969-1971, American Indian activists laid claim to Alcatraz Island. Their 19-month occupation launched the Native American movement for sovereignty, power, and independence. Learn more below.

Experience Welcome to Indian Land: Resistance, Resilience and Activism, a new exhibit about the Native American occupations of Alcatraz opening on Alcatraz island September 2025.

Accounts of the Occupations

We Hold the Rock

Essay by Dr. Troy Johnson
Radio Free Alcatraz

Hear the recordings of Radio Free Alcatraz, broadcasted live from the cellhouse during the occupation.
Voices of Occupation Alcatraz

Hear first-hand accounts of the occupation.