After Alcatraz
Shortly after leaving Alcatraz, Oakes continued his fight for the Native Americans. He helped Pit River Indians in their attempts to regain nearly 3 million acres of land that had been seized by Pacific Gas & Electric. Oakes also had many other plans to create more opportunities for Native Americans starting with his idea of an “mobile university.” But two unfortunate events would determine his fate: Richard Oakes was injured in a fight, having been hit in the head with a pool cue. In a coma for over 30 days, all hope for his recovery was nearly lost. Friends credit the appearance of his mentor Wallace Mad Bear Anderson of the Iroquois Confederacy, and spiritual leader, with bringing him back to life.
Soon after that, however, Oakes was shot and killed by a man named Michael Morgan, a YMCA camp manager. Morgan had a reputation for being rough with Indian kids, and apparently did so again in Oakes' presence. Oakes reportedly confronted him, and Morgan responded by drawing a handgun and fatally shooting him. Morgan was charged with involuntary manslaughter. Six months later, charges against Morgan were dropped on the grounds that Oakes had moved aggressively toward him. Oakes died September 20, 1972 in Sonoma, California at the age of 30.
Although his death brought a great loss, Richard Oakes’ impact on government to create treaties and policies in favor of Native Americans was insurmountable. “Richard Oakes presence beyond Alcatraz and his influence upon many Indian people shall continue to live within the body and soul of Indian experience. Born to the American soil, and responding strongly to his people’s struggle and suffering upon it, the living spirit of Richard Oakes could not now die nor cease to be remembered upon Indian land. Neither elegy nor eulogy can satisfy his life or death.” (Hank Adams)
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