A History of Native American Policy and Activism: From the American Indian Movement (A.I.M) to Standing Rock to the Present

This speaker participated in our 2018 Conference. Learn more about our 2023 conference speakers here.

Friday, May 18 | 11:30am-12:00pm

Learn about the history of policy that the United States had towards the first inhabitants of this land. From the Indian Removal Act to Termination, learn how policy affected tribes and the Native community and how those policies lead to the formation of the American Indian Movement. From the occupation of Alcatraz Island to Wounded Knee, the American Indian Movement was instrumental in bringing Native issues to the limelight. And the spark is still lit today with movements from Standing Rock to the fight for our lands and monuments.

Heather Bruegl

Heather Bruegl, a member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, is a graduate of Madonna University in Michigan and holds a Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts in U.S. History. Inspired by a trip to Wounded Knee, South Dakota, a passion for Native American History was born. She has spoken for numerous groups including the University of Michigan, Salem-South Lyon Library, Shawano County Historical Society, Stockbridge-Munsee Band of the Mohicans, and the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin. She has spoken at the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh for Indigenous Peoples Day 2017. Heather also opened up and spoke at the Women’s March Anniversary in Lansing, Michigan. A curiosity of her own heritage lead her to Wisconsin, where she has researched the history of the Native American tribes in the area. Heather currently travels and speaks on Native American history, including policy and activism.