Meaning: The quote "Indian policy" has now been brought down upon the American people, and the American people are the new Indians of the 21st Century" by Russell Means, a prominent Native American activist, draws attention to the historical mistreatment of indigenous peoples in the United States and suggests that similar policies and injustices are now being experienced by the wider American population in the 21st century.

Russell Means, a member of the Oglala Lakota Nation, was a prominent figure in the American Indian Movement (AIM) and a vocal advocate for Native American rights. Throughout his life, Means sought to raise awareness about the ongoing struggles faced by indigenous communities and to challenge the systemic injustices that have historically marginalized Native Americans.

In the context of the quote, "Indian policy" refers to the long history of discriminatory and harmful policies imposed upon Native American tribes by the U.S. government. These policies have included forced removal from ancestral lands, the establishment of reservations, assimilation efforts such as the Indian boarding school system, and the erosion of tribal sovereignty. Means' use of the term "Indian policy" serves to highlight the systematic oppression and exploitation that indigenous peoples have endured for centuries.

By asserting that the American people are now the "new Indians" of the 21st century, Means draws a parallel between the historical treatment of Native Americans and the contemporary challenges faced by the broader American population. This comparison suggests that the policies and practices that have historically oppressed indigenous communities are now impacting the wider society. Means implies that the injustices and marginalization experienced by Native Americans are now being replicated on a broader scale, affecting a new segment of the population.

One interpretation of Means' statement is that he is highlighting the ways in which government policies and societal structures continue to perpetuate inequality and disenfranchisement. By likening the American people to the historical plight of Native Americans, Means raises awareness of the pervasive and enduring nature of systemic oppression. He invites the broader population to recognize the parallels between historical injustices against indigenous peoples and contemporary issues affecting American society.

Moreover, the quote may also serve as a call to action, urging people to empathize with the experiences of Native Americans and to recognize the broader societal implications of historical and ongoing injustices. Means' words prompt reflection on the interconnectedness of social justice issues and the importance of solidarity across different communities.

In summary, Russell Means' quote draws attention to the enduring impact of "Indian policy" on both Native American communities and the broader American population. By likening the experiences of the American people to those of Native Americans, Means invites reflection on the systemic nature of oppression and the need for collective action to address historical and contemporary injustices. His words carry a powerful message about the ongoing relevance of indigenous rights and the interconnectedness of social justice struggles in the United States.