Russell Means, at 72, diagnosed with esophagal cancer, in an historic interview with Hadassah Broscova, Carpe Articulum.
(An absolutely must see, as the same methods used to degrade our American Indians are being used to denigrate of our Confederate and Revolutionary ancestors.)
A powerful interview covering his life's work, world views, and dying of cancer... a deep introspective and intimate journey through what makes Russell Means tick. He is a powerful, pivotal figure and one of the only international spokespersons championing the plight of the Native American Indian and other indigenous tribes worldwide. To lose him would be a devastating blow as he has given his life to raising awareness and fighting for the rights of oppressed persons everywhere, calling specific attention to over 155 years of broken treaties with the Native American Peoples.
To help with his cancer treatments, please donate via www.RussellMeans.com His beautiful wife Pearl Means is a pillar of strength in these difficult times. This is a rare privilege to see her speaking openly. We hope this is not the last interview he is able to give. They have given him three months to live. May all health return to him soon...
For more information on the International Literary Magazine, Carpe Articulum Literary Review, Journal of the Stars, or the Editor-in-Chief Hadassah Broscova, see www.CarpeArticulum.com This video copyright (c) 2011 Carpe Articulum Foundation/Carpe Articulum Literary Review
========================================Russell Means has not yet passed from this world. Earlier reports of his imminent death were somewhat exaggerated. However, he does have terminal cancer (of the throat–of the esophagus specifically), and has been given but a few months to live. He is experimenting with alternative treatment, natural remedies, and Indian ways of healing.He was interviewed recently by Hadassah Broscova, editor of the elite international literary magazine, Carpe Articulum</em>. This exclusive interview may be one of the very last professional interviews of any magnitude. It provided a very rare opportunity for Means to present his life in the most positive way, without opposition, interruption, or contradiction. Ms. Broscova alone could offer such an opportunity for Means, and for the world to hear his story, from his point of view. Ms. Broscova has a very special disposition of love and respect for human dignity, and because of her embrace of the world, someone like Russell Means is given the very finest hour in which to speak. (Would that all had such a Broscovan moment.)
Broscova/Means, Part II
BadEagle.com will nevertheless offer a series of commentaries on this historic interview, beginning with this current article. We will comment on various topics addressed in the interview, and hopefully, all will be seen in the full, objective dimensions of political reality, diverse as this may seem from the views Mr. Means presents. Mr. Means has obviously been a long time media presence, creating and shaping the modern stereotype of the American Indian protester. The truth his, however, he has never been a tribal leader, and, like so many other professional Indian “activists,” he has not been supported by the body of Indian people, that of his own tribe, or of Indians in general. Instead, he has been an innovator, or an experimenter, trying to create new paths for improvement in Indian life. His support has been chiefly from non-Indian people–usually Left, Liberal, Democrat people. Be that as it may, he has remained open minded in his approaches, with or without support, and regardless of party. This is the man, never mind the political label, or financial backing. The man is a creative trail-blazer.
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My Dear friend Brock,
ReplyDeletePam and I stopped watching the interview with Russell after only 33 minutes. Not because of boredom, or lack of interest. Certainly not, for it is impossible to be bored listening to Russell.
We stopped out of sadness in our hearts.
Years back when I was myself a young strapping activist, Russell was a mentor. I have enjoyed hours in his company on more than one occasion.
I won't say he always made the right call, (most times yes he did) but even when the call was wrong, he at least made the call, instead of sitting on his hands.
Despite his health issues he remains so articulate, and his mind remains sharp and he is no doubt focused on issues other than his own personal health. He is still thinking of his people.
As Pam is adopted Lakota, I sat across the table intently watching her, as she watched and listened when Russell spoke of the conditions on Pine Ridge. If one has never been there, one can not imagine just how third world conditions there are.
I know there are many that will say that it is the peoples fault (meaning the Indian), nothing could be further from the truth. It the breaking of treaties for 300 years by the government that is at fault.
I could go on for hours about Russell and what a champion he has been. Right now it is just too sad for us to even watch.
I am sure we will finish the interview, but we looked at each other and almost simultaneously said. "This is just too sad right now."
I would like to personally thank you for posting this interview , and I hope many many others will watch it in it's entirety, as I know we will.
There is much to be learned from the mouth of Russell Means, I am so glad someone took the time for such an in depth interview while it is still possible.
Thanks again man,
T
Thank you and you would never know he's near the end of his life.
ReplyDeleteT:
ReplyDeleteI would love to give hope, but if the cancer has spread to his lymph nodes and lungs, it is frankly hopeless, though I would be very happy to eat my words. Haven't found anything to disagree with him over other than "Global Warming!) Actually, he sounds better than I.:)