Protesting Indians Cause Third Heaviest Damage to US Federal Building in History, 1972-11-11

The damage caused by protesting Indians to the Bureau of Indian Affairs in Washington, D.C. was estimated to cost $2.5 million, making it one of the most extensive ever committed by U.S. citizens on a federal building. The damage included structural repairs, record restoration, art and artifacts, employee downtime, and more. The government's estimates have skyrocketed since the end of the five-day occupation. Prosecution of the Indians involved is threatened, with assurances of amnesty being discussed. The National Congress of American Indians denounced the destructive demonstration and accused the administration of deceit. The Justice Department is investigating the damage, and hearings will be held to consider the impact of the demonstration on Indian programs. NTCA called for the removal of officials who failed to protect the BIA offices and records.