Eddie Benton-Banai facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Eddie Benton-Banai
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|---|---|
| Bawdwaywidun Banaisee | |
| Born | March 4, 1931 |
| Died | November 30, 2020 (aged 89) |
| Alma mater | University of Minnesota (M.Ed.) |
| Occupation | Civil rights organizer |
| Known for | Co-founding the American Indian Movement |
Edward Benton-Banai (March 4, 1931 – November 30, 2020) was an important civil rights leader. He helped start the American Indian Movement (AIM). This group worked to make life better for Native Americans.
About Eddie Benton-Banai
Eddie Benton-Banai was born on March 4, 1931. He was from the Ojibwe-Anishinabe people and belonged to the Fish Clan. His home was the Lac Courte Oreilles Reservation in Northern Wisconsin.
In 1986, he became the Grand Chief of the Three Fires Midewiwin Lodge. Many people knew him by his traditional name, Bawdwaywidun.
Early Life and Learning
Eddie Benton-Banai studied hard and earned a Master’s Degree in Education. He got this degree from the University of Minnesota.
In 1979, he wrote a special book called The Mishomis Book. This book shared important stories about the Anishinaabe way of life. It also told about the Seven Fires Prophecy, which are old teachings.
Later, in 2008, Eddie became an adviser at Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig. He helped guide the building of the Anishinabek Discovery Centre. This building in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, has a roof shaped like a traditional lodge. Eddie Benton-Banai passed away in Hayward, Wisconsin, on November 30, 2020, at 89 years old.
Standing Up for Native Rights
Eddie Benton-Banai was a key founder and spiritual guide for the American Indian Movement (AIM). This group was started to fight against unfair treatment of Native Americans. They worked to address challenges faced by Indigenous people.
In 1962, Eddie Benton-Banai was jailed for his work as an activist. He was with Clyde Bellecourt at the time. In July 1968, Eddie, Clyde Bellecourt, George Mitchell, and Dennis Banks started a group. It was first called "Concerned Indian Americans" and later became AIM.
Eddie Benton-Banai was also part of the protest at Wounded Knee village in 1973. This was a significant event where Native Americans stood up for their rights.
In 1972, he started the Red School House in St. Paul, Minnesota. This school was run by Indigenous people. It taught students about their own spiritual beliefs and cultural traditions.
