Native American Activist Hank Adams Honored on 81st Birthday with Google Doodle

On Thursday, Google paid tribute to the late Native American activist Hank Adams on what would have been his 81st birthday with a special Doodle. The illustration featured Adams, known for his advocacy for Indigenous rights, standing next to fishermen on a river under a serene sunset.

Natasha Donovan, a Métis artist based in Bellingham, crafted the artwork. Adams, who passed away in 2020, was recognized for his strategic work with Native American communities in the Northwest and beyond. The Northwest Treaty Tribes praised Adams as a stalwart leader who shaped policies for civil, human, and treaty rights.

Hank Adams, often referred to as ‘the most important Indian’ by historian Vine Deloria, played a significant role in historic events such as the Fish Wars in the Pacific Northwest. He was instrumental in securing recognition of Native Americans’ fishing rights, despite facing opposition from Washington state officials.

Adams also played a crucial role in negotiating peaceful resolutions during volatile standoffs, including discussions with the Nixon White House to address the Trail of Broken Treaties occupation in 1972 and the 10-week standoff at Wounded Knee in 1973.

Born in Wolf Point, Montana, Adams relocated to Washington state with his family after the conclusion of World War II. The Seattle Times highlighted Adams’ legacy and the impact of his advocacy in fostering a better relationship between Indigenous communities and the U.S. government.