This Day in History

Dec. 22, 1969: Radio Free Alcatraz

Time Periods: People’s Movement: 1961 - 1974
Themes: Native American
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Radio Free Alcatraz

Radio Free Alcatraz. Photo from Troy Johnson’s web collection.

On Dec. 22, 1969, Radio Free Alcatraz broadcast for the first time.

In this photo, John Trudell speaks with news media representatives regarding negotiations with the federal government for title to Alcatraz Island.

Trudell conducted the regular radio program called “Radio Free Alcatraz.” For more about the life of John Trudell, see the Independent Lens PBS website for the film Trudell. 

Related Resources
Films

Alcatraz Is Not an Island

Film. By James M. Fortier. 2001. 60 min.
Documentary on a small group of Native American students and “Urban Indians” who occupied Alcatraz Island in November 1969, and how it forever changed the way Native Americans viewed themselves, their culture and their sovereign rights.

Profiles

Native American Activism: 1960s to Present

Overview of Native American activism since the late 1960s, including protests at Mt. Rushmore, Alcatraz, Standing Rock, and more.

This Day in History

Nov. 20, 1969: Alcatraz Occupation

Native Americans took over and held Alcatraz Island as Indian Land during the Alcatraz Occupation.