Apesanahkwat

Last updated
Apesanahkwat
Born
Apesanah Apsanahkwat

(1949-01-19) January 19, 1949 (age 76)
Occupation(s) Actor; former tribal Chairman of Menominee tribe (8 terms)
Years active1985–present
SpouseKristine Poafpybitty-Apesanahkwat
Children2

Apesanahkwat (born January 19, 1949) is a Native American tribal leader, activist, and film and television actor.

Contents

Personal life

Apesanahkwat served as tribal chairman of the Menominee Indian Reservation eight times. He served in the United States Marine Corps and is a Vietnam War veteran. He is known for playing American Indian roles in such films and television series as Wind River , Northern Exposure , Stolen Women, Captured Hearts , Bagdad Cafe , and Babylon 5 . He has competed in various Powwows across the United States as a northern traditional dancer.

In 1989, during a rally at Lac du Flambea, Apesanahkwat protested against racism towards indigenous groups.

In March 2004, Apesanahkwat was the official keynote speaker at the Language and Culture Preservation Conference in Albuquerque, New Mexico, which was hosted by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Indian Education Programs (OIEP). This event was meant to spread awareness of the importance of preserving Indian culture though language. Being the keynote speaker, Apesanahkwat called to action his community, stating the importance of giving back the Indian people their voice. Apesanahkwat is also known as one of the originators of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (GRA).[ citation needed ]

Military History

Apesanhkwat was 20 years old when he entered the Vietnam War. After the war ended, Apesanahkwat suffered from PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder). After his traumatic experiences at war, he reconnected with his indigenous roots as a form of healing. When discussing his thoughts on war, Apesanahkwat says he believes that no man should have to experience it. Since Vietnam, he has been an active voice for his community as a supporter for PTSD awareness.

Filmography

Film

YearTitleRoleNotes
1987 Bagdad Cafe Sheriff Arnie
1994 Sioux City Clifford Rainfeather
2001Lady in the BoxFelix
2004The ReawakeningHenry Johnson / Dark Spirit Being
2005The Rain MakersJoe Crying Eagle
2010NightbeastsLouis Freebirdas Apesanahquat
2017 Wind River Dan Crowheart

Television

YearTitleRoleNotes
1985 Tall Tales & Legends InterpreterEpisode: "Annie Oakley"
1993 Harts of the West AndrewEpisode: "Auggie's End"
1993-1995 Northern Exposure Lester HainesRecurring role; 5 episodes
1994Gunsmoke: One Man's JusticeSix EyesTelevision film
1994-1995 Walker, Texas Ranger Raymond FirewalkerGuest role; 3 episodes
1995 Babylon 5 Telepath #1Episode: "A Race Through Dark Places"
1995SiringoChinoneroTelevision film
1995 CBS Schoolbreak Special ElderEpisode: "My Indian Summer"
1996 Goode Behavior Chief Steve DavisEpisode: "Goode Samaritan"
1997 Stolen Women: Captured Hearts Bloody KnifeTelevision film
1997 North of 60 Senator Jack HarperEpisode: "Love Hurts"
2002 Skinwalkers Captain ButlerTelevision film
2004 Helter Skelter Guard Duty CopTelevision film
2015 Longmire Cheyenne ManEpisode: "Down by the River"
2016 Ray Donovan WovokaGuest role; 2 episodes

References

    Bibliography