Thelma Conroy-Rios facts for kids

Thelma Conroy-Rios was a Native American activist. She was known for her part in the Wounded Knee incident. She was also involved with the American Indian Movement, a group that worked for Native American rights.

About Thelma Conroy-Rios

Thelma Conroy-Rios was born on May 17, 1945. Her birthplace was the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. She was an active member of the American Indian Movement (AIM). This group worked to protect the rights and traditions of Native American people.

Early Life and Family

Thelma Conroy-Rios was a student at Black Hills State University. However, she had to leave her studies in 1970. This was because her daughter was born with a rare blood disease.

Between 1974 and 1975, Thelma Conroy-Rios lived with fellow activist Harry Hill. They were considered to be living together as a couple.

Involvement in Activism

Thelma Conroy-Rios was present during the Custer Courthouse Incident in 1973. This event happened after a court decision about the death of Wesley Bad Heart Bull. Thelma Conroy-Rios said that Harry Hill played a role in starting the protest at the courthouse. She stated that he encouraged the crowd. This account is also mentioned in the book In the Spirit of Crazy Horse by Peter Matthiessen.

Later Years and Passing

Thelma Conroy-Rios passed away on February 9, 2011. She died in Rapid City, South Dakota, at the Rapid City Regional Hospital. Her death was due to complications from lung cancer. She had been diagnosed with lung cancer not long before her passing.

Before she died, Thelma Conroy-Rios shared some information about the events surrounding fellow activist Anna Mae Aquash. She provided names of people involved in the situation. Although she died before she could share everything, her sworn statement was given to the Attorney General of South Dakota, Marty J. Jackley. He stated that the case would continue to be looked into.