In keeping with The Ciesla Foundation's tradition of bringing to the forefront the stories of lesser known heroes, Casuse is the story of Larry Casuse, a young Native American activist and inspiration to his peers. Growing up in Gallup, New Mexico, he witnessed the rampant alcoholism, racism and poverty imposed upon his Navajo people. Attending the University of New Mexico, Casuse worked hard to organize his fellow students and fight to improve the lives of his tribe. Frustrated by his inability to affect change through the system and influenced by the tumultuous political climate of the early 70's, Casuse kidnapped the Mayor of Gallup to publicly expose the hypocrisy of the establishment. He died in a shootout on March 1, 1973. He is considered a hero to his people. For more information on Casuse please contact cieslafdn@gmail.com.

For current events and Native American issues, check out our new blog at http://casusefilmproject.org/blog/.