James Abourezk, a Democrat who served as a former lawmaker in South Dakota and was born on the Rosebud Sioux Reservation, passed away on Friday at the age of 92. Abourezk was well known for his quick wit and support of liberal causes. He was the first Arab American to serve as a senator in the United States.
Abourezk passed away on his birthday at his home in Sioux Falls after receiving hospice care in his final days. With him were Sanaa Abourezk, his wife, and other family members.
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James Abourezk Obituary
Abourezk served as South Dakota’s senator and house representative for one term in the 1970s. He was well-known for the Prairie Populist school of politics, which was characterized by a fervent commitment to upholding the interests of the weaker groups, such as farmers, consumers, and Native Americans.
As the initial chair of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, Abourezk played a crucial role in pressing for the creation of the American Indian Policy Reform Commission. The commission’s extensive investigation of federal policy toward American Indian tribes led to the passage of the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act, the American Indian Religious Freedom Act, and the Indian Child Welfare Act.
As part of the American Indian Movement’s protest against how the US government handled Native American tribes, Wounded Knee, South Dakota, was seized and occupied in 1973.
In an effort to speak with the activists who were involved in a conflict with federal law enforcement, James Abourezk traveled to Wounded Knee with fellow Democrat Senator George McGovern.
James Abourezk’s Net Worth At Time Of Death
James Abourezk’s net worth at the of his death is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million dollars.
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