Floyd Red Crow Westerman Passes to the Spirit World

Last Updated: 6 years

The world mourns the loss of a remarkable figure. On a somber morning in Los Angeles, California, Gwen Westerman Griffin of Mankato, MN, announced that Floyd Red Crow Westerman journeyed to the spirit world at approximately 5:00 a.m. Pacific Time. His passing occurred at Cedars Sinai Hospital, surrounded by family, after an extended period of illness. He was 71 years old.

This news resonates deeply, not only within the Native American community but across all cultures and backgrounds. **Floyd Red Crow Westerman** leaves behind a profound and enduring legacy, a testament to a life lived with purpose, passion, and unwavering dedication to the betterment of humankind. His impact transcends boundaries and will continue to inspire generations to come.

From his captivating performances as a singer and musician to his memorable roles in film and television, and his tireless activism on behalf of indigenous peoples and environmental causes, **Floyd Red Crow Westerman**’s life story is a powerful narrative of resilience, advocacy, and artistic expression. It serves as an example of the values we should aspire to embody in our own lives. His commitment to Native American youth, coupled with his global efforts to protect rainforests, highlights a profound message of responsibility and interconnectedness that resonates with people from all walks of life.

While widely recognized for his talents as an actor and musician, **Floyd Red Crow Westerman**’s life was ultimately defined by his unwavering commitment to serving the greater good. His actions and beliefs touched countless lives and left an indelible mark on the world.

Floyd Red Crow Westerman (1936 – 2007)

Born into the Sisseton-Wapheton Dakota community, **Floyd Red Crow Westerman** embarked on a multifaceted career that spanned several decades. His artistic journey began with country music, eventually leading him to appear in over 50 film and television productions. Some of his most notable roles include appearances in critically acclaimed films such as *Dances With Wolves*, *Hidalgo*, *The Doors*, and *Poltergeist*. He also graced the small screen, most memorably in 12 episodes of the popular 1990s television series, *Walker, Texas Ranger*, where he portrayed the character of Uncle Ray Firewalker. These roles showcased his acting prowess and allowed him to bring Native American stories and perspectives to a wider audience.

His formative years were spent at the Wapheton and Flandreau Boarding Schools, experiences that shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by Native American communities. It was during this time that he forged a lifelong friendship with Dennis Banks, a prominent figure in the American Indian Movement (AIM). Westerman became a staunch supporter of AIM, actively participating in the organization’s efforts to advocate for Native American rights and sovereignty.

With a suitcase in hand and an old guitar as his companion, **Floyd Red Crow Westerman** left his home on the Lake Traverse reservation in South Dakota, venturing out into the world to pursue his musical aspirations. He traveled extensively across the country, performing country music and his original compositions in various bars and clubs. He spent a significant period of time in Denver, Colorado, honing his craft and building a following.

In 1969, Westerman released his groundbreaking debut album, *Custer Died for Your Sins*. This album became more than just a collection of songs; it evolved into a powerful anthem for the burgeoning Red Power Movement, capturing the spirit of resistance and the demand for self-determination among Native Americans. The album’s title, a sardonic commentary on historical injustices, resonated deeply with a generation seeking to reclaim their cultural identity and fight for their rights.

As a dedicated member of the American Indian Movement and a spokesperson for the International Indian Treaty Council, Westerman embarked on extensive travels around the globe, advocating for the rights and well-being of indigenous peoples. His vision for improved social conditions for indigenous communities worldwide is reflected in the music of his second album, *The Land is Your Mother*, released in 1982. This album further solidified his reputation as a musical activist, using his art to raise awareness about critical issues facing indigenous populations.

In 2006, Westerman’s musical contributions were recognized with a NAMMY (Native American Music Award) for his third album, *A Tribute to Johnny Cash*. This award celebrated his musical talent and his ability to bridge cultural divides through his art. Throughout his illustrious career, Westerman collaborated with a diverse range of renowned musicians, including Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Buffy St. Marie, Jackson Browne, Harry Belafonte, and Sting. These collaborations demonstrated his versatility as an artist and his commitment to using his platform to promote understanding and collaboration between different cultures.

Beyond his artistic achievements, **Floyd Red Crow Westerman** dedicated his life to empowering Native American youth. He firmly believed that they were the key to a brighter future for Native communities. In a November interview, he expressed his deep concern about the challenges facing young Native Americans, stating, “They are our future. Today we are fighting a great battle against the popular culture that surrounds them. It’s a battle for their hearts and minds. We need to work to inspire them to embrace their own history and culture. Without them, we Indians have no future.” His words serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and the need to support and nurture the next generation of Native American leaders.

Floyd Red Crow Westerman will be returned to his ancestral homelands in Sisseton, South Dakota, where memorial services and burial will take place. Plans are also underway for a memorial service in Los Angeles, California, to honor his life and legacy. Those wishing to express their condolences through floral tributes may send flowers to the Sisseton Flower Shop in Sisseton, South Dakota.

His passing is a profound loss that warrants a day to recognize Native Americans.

His absence will be deeply felt, yet his memory will continue to inspire. As Red Crow embarks on his journey to join the ancestors, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for his contributions to the world. May peace be with him on his new journey.