John Trudell’s Thanksgiving Address

Delivered in 1980, Trudell’s address remains remarkably relevant today, with its insights standing strong over time. While the names of U.S. politicians he referenced have shifted with the years, the struggles faced by Native peoples persist, unchanged.

On tonight’s special edition of the KMUD Local News, we celebrate the legacy of John Trudell, the visionary Native right’s activist, poet, and musician whose voice for Indigenous rights continues to resonate.

Born into the Santee Sioux tribe, Trudell emerged as a powerful leader during the Alcatraz occupation and his work with the American Indian Movement. Through his poetry and music, including the iconic AKA Grafitti Man, Trudell fearlessly confronted injustice and inspired generations with stories of resilience and truth.

Tune in on Thursday, November 28th at 6pm for a special broadcast of his historic Thanksgiving Dinner Address from November 30, 1980 for this profound reflection on history, gratitude, and the future of Indigenous communities.

Learn more about John Trudell here: