Resistance

Many Nisqually, unsupported by their tribal council, organized and attended fish-ins-- protests that included fishing in the manner prohibited by law.Although some attracted few Indian protestors, they all attracted many state patrolmen.

One fish-in during October of 1965 had only 27 Indian protestors, but 35 patrolmen were present. It ended with injuries on both sides and the arrests of six Indians.

The Survival of American Indians Association was formed in 1964, by three tribal members, in response to the plight of Nisqually fishermen.
The association funded the documentary As Long As The Rivers Run, directed by Carol Burns. Two other documentaries were made about the movement: Treaties Made, Treaties Broken, and In the Shadow of the Eagle. CBS’s Charles Kuralt reported on Frank’s Landing.

The movement gradually gained public attention. 2,000 people expressed their support at the largest fish-in to take place on February 15th, 1964, in front of the Capitol in Olympia. Actor Marlon Brando was present, and later, arrested.

Marlon Brando is with Bob Satiacum, a Puyallup leader in the fight for fishing rights. (photo courtesy of washingtonhistorylink.org)