John Trudell: Portrait of a Government Turning Against Its CitizensSusanne Posel, Contributor John Trudell is an acclaimed poet, national recording artist, actor and activist whose international following reflects the universal language of his words, work and message.Trudell (Santee Sioux) was a spokesperson for the Indian of All Tribes occupation of Alcatraz Island from 1969 to 1971. He then worked with the American Indian Movement (AIM), serving as Chairman of AIM from 1973 to 1979. In February of 1979, a fire of unknown origin killed Trudells wife, three children and mother-in-law. It was through this horrific tragedy that Trudell began to find his voice as an artist and poet, writing, in his words, to stay connected to this reality. This film is as relevant to the horrific history Native American Indians have endured as to what is happening to all American citizens today. This documentary is worth more than can be expressed through words.Trudells life and activism has served as an example of how to live for what you believe in. 