Herbert George Powless, an Oneida tribal member, commenced his journey to the Creator’s land on January 30, 2018. Born on February 22, 1937, to Margaret (Stevens) Powless and Mark Powless, his life was a tapestry woven with service, activism, and unwavering dedication to his people. This Herbert (Herb) Powless Obituary serves as a testament to his remarkable life and lasting impact.
From a young age, Herb demonstrated a profound commitment to his country and community. At just 15 years old, he enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps, embarking on a path of service that would define much of his life. His dedication led him to serve as a veteran of the Korean War, a period of intense conflict where he bravely defended the principles he held dear.
Upon returning from his military service, Herb entered the civilian workforce, finding employment at American Motors Corporation in Milwaukee. His involvement extended beyond the factory floor, as he became an active member of the Labor Union. He participated in negotiating union contracts, advocating for the rights and well-being of his fellow workers. Later, he followed in the footsteps of his brothers, joining the ranks of ironworkers, a profession demanding strength, skill, and a commitment to hard work.
However, it was in the realm of Native American advocacy that Herbert (Herb) Powless truly distinguished himself. In 1970, he spearheaded the creation of the first-ever American Indian Council on Alcoholism. This pioneering initiative marked a turning point in addressing the devastating effects of alcoholism within Native communities. Herb’s vision extended beyond conventional treatment methods; he successfully advocated for the National Indian Health Service in Washington D.C. to fund alcoholism treatment in Indian Country, grounding this funding in treaty rights. Crucially, he championed the integration of traditional healing practices into the treatment process, recognizing the inherent value of cultural and spiritual approaches.
Herb’s understanding of holistic healing led him to incorporate sweat lodges and traditional ceremonies into the treatment plans for Native people struggling with addiction. This innovative approach acknowledged the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit, fostering a healing environment rooted in cultural identity and spiritual connection. His work acknowledged the trauma and cultural disruption that contributed to addiction and sought to restore balance and well-being through traditional practices.
Further demonstrating his commitment to Native rights and self-determination, Herbert (Herb) Powless, along with a group of like-minded and concerned Native Americans, co-founded the 3rd Chapter of the American Indian Movement (AIM) in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, also in 1970. AIM became a powerful force in advocating for Native American rights, cultural preservation, and sovereignty. Herb’s leadership within AIM was instrumental in encouraging the revitalization of traditional, cultural, and spiritual teachings. He believed that reclaiming and preserving these traditions was essential to empowering Native communities and fostering a sense of identity and pride.
Herb played a significant role in the planning and execution of the takeover of the coast guard station in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This bold action resulted in the transformation of the station into a vital resource for the Native community. The former coast guard station became a halfway house, providing a safe and supportive environment for Native people in need. It also became the home of the Indian Community School, an educational institution dedicated to serving Native youth in Milwaukee, fostering their academic success while nurturing their cultural identity.
The impact of this takeover extends even further. The Forest County Potawatomi Tribal casino in Milwaukee owes its existence, in part, to the events that transpired at the coast guard station. The successful reclamation of the station demonstrated the power of collective action and the determination of Native communities to control their own destinies.
Herb’s activism extended beyond Milwaukee. He participated in the Wounded Knee occupation in 1973, a pivotal event in the fight for Native American rights. He also took part in the Novitiate takeover in Gresham, Wisconsin, further demonstrating his unwavering commitment to standing up for justice and self-determination.
His dedication to Native American rights extended to the realm of religious freedom. Under his leadership in AIM, Herb traveled to Oklahoma to address the issue of Native students being prohibited from wearing long hair in public schools. This discriminatory policy violated their religious and cultural beliefs. Herb’s advocacy led to the passage of a law in Oklahoma that protected the right of Native students to wear long hair, a victory for religious freedom and cultural expression.
Herbert (Herb) Powless dedicated his life to serving Native people, tirelessly advocating for their rights and well-being. He envisioned a future where his children and grandchildren would not have to endure the racism and discrimination that had plagued previous generations. This dream fueled his activism and his unwavering commitment to creating a more just and equitable society.
The Native language and the songs of his people held a special place in Herb’s heart. He found solace and inspiration in the sounds of his culture, recognizing their power to connect him to his ancestors and to future generations. These sounds were not merely entertainment; they were a lifeline to his heritage and a source of strength in the face of adversity.
Herb’s legacy lives on through his family. He is survived by his sons, Geronimo (Michelle) Powless and Vincent "Buddy" (Linda) Powless; his daughters, Georgia FoolBull, Gina Powless Buenrostro, and Cheryl (Dale) Powless, and their mother, Dorothy Ninham. He also leaves behind his adopted sons, David Cornelius, Todd Howling Wolf, and Jon (Poncho) and Rebecca Brady. He was a proud grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather, cherishing the bonds of family and the promise of future generations. He is also survived by his siblings, Eugene Powless, Mark N Powless, Dorothy Mehojah, and Marjorie Stevens, as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended adopted family members.
Herb was preceded in death by his parents, his son Anthony, his sisters Lorraine Cornelius and Mary Dodge, and his brothers John and Purcell Powless.
Among his closest friends, whom he considered brothers, were John Thomas, Bill Means, and the late Dennis Banks and the late Ted Means. These relationships were forged in the crucible of activism and shared commitment to Native American rights.
Visitation was held at the residence of Dale and Cheryl Powless, 1802 Poplar Lane, Seymour, WI 54165, beginning on Thursday, February 1st at 4:30 PM until Friday at 6:00 PM. Traditional funeral ceremonies commenced at 9:00 PM on Friday until 8:00 AM on Saturday. Burial took place in the Oneida Sacred Burial Grounds at 11:00 AM on Saturday, with full Military Honors. A meal followed the burial at the Parish Hall in Oneida, WI on Saturday at 12:00 PM.
Herb’s unwavering spirit and unwavering commitment to his beliefs are encapsulated in his own words: "I WILL NEVER APOLOGIZE FOR WHAT I DID OR WHAT AIM HAS DONE…AND I DON’T WANT TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH ANYONE WHO WOULD." These words serve as a powerful reminder of his courage, conviction, and unwavering dedication to the cause of Native American rights.
Herbert (Herb) Powless, a true pioneer, activist, and leader, leaves behind a legacy of service, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to his people. His contributions to the American Indian Movement, the fight for religious freedom, and the development of culturally sensitive alcoholism treatment programs have had a lasting impact on Native communities across the nation. His memory will continue to inspire generations to come.