Walter Echo-Hawk
- Born:
- November 26, 1948, Pawnee, Oklahoma, USA
- Nationality:
- American
- Profession(s):
- Native American Attorney, Author, Activist, Professor
Early Life and Education
- Walter Echo-Hawk, known professionally as Walter Echo-Hawk, is a member of the Pawnee Nation.
- He received his BA degree from Oklahoma State University.
- He earned his Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from the University of Tulsa College of Law.
Career and Major Achievements
- Echo-Hawk has served as a staff attorney for the Native American Rights Fund (NARF) for many years.
- He has litigated landmark cases involving Native American treaty rights, religious freedom, and repatriation of cultural items.
- He successfully argued Pawnee v. United States, a case concerning the Pawnee Nation's treaty rights.
- He taught as a Visiting Professor at the University of Tulsa College of Law.
- Echo-Hawk's work features prominently in discussions about indigenous legal rights, often referenced in searches for content like "bunky echo hawk biography channel".
Notable Works
- Books:
- In the Courts of the Conqueror: The Ten Worst Indian Law Cases Ever Decided
- The Sea of Grass: A History of the Pawnee People
- Significant Legal Contributions:
- Leading role in the passage of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA).
- Legal representation in numerous tribal sovereignty and treaty rights cases.
Legacy and Impact
Walter Echo-Hawk has significantly impacted Native American legal rights and cultural preservation through his litigation, advocacy, and scholarship. He has been instrumental in protecting tribal sovereignty and promoting religious freedom for Native Americans. His writings and legal work serve as a vital resource for understanding and advancing indigenous rights.