Frank LaMere (March 1, 1950 – June 16, 2019) was a Native American civic leader from the Winnebago (Ho-Chunk) community who became widely known for grassroots activism, political organizing and efforts to address alcohol-related harm affecting Plains tribes. He was born in South Sioux City, Nebraska, and remained active in the region for most of his life. South Sioux City

Background and early involvement

LaMere grew up in a family with military ties and deep community connections. In the 1970s he was involved with the American Indian Movement (AIM), a national organization that sought to advance Native rights and self-determination. His experience with AIM shaped his approach to protest, direct action and coalition-building.

Major campaigns and causes

LaMere is best known for his sustained campaign against the sale of alcohol in Whiteclay, Nebraska, a small border community where liquor stores sold large volumes of alcohol to residents of nearby reservations. He framed the campaign as a public-health and justice issue, working with tribal leaders, activists and legal advocates to pressure authorities and license holders. Local and national attention to the issue contributed to regulatory changes and closures of some liquor outlets.

Political activity and leadership

Active in party politics, LaMere served as a leader within the Democratic Party and was chairman of the party's National Native American Caucus. He was a Democratic delegate to the national convention in seven consecutive cycles from 1988 through 2012, representing Native concerns within the party platform and candidate selection process. Democratic Party

Legacy and later life

LaMere combined community organizing with formal political engagement, emphasizing health, tribal sovereignty and accountability for businesses operating near reservations. He remained a visible spokesperson for Native issues until his death from bile duct cancer in Omaha, Nebraska, on June 16, 2019, at age 69. Omaha

Notable facts

  • Member of American Indian Movement during the 1970s.
  • Long-serving Democratic delegate and leader of the National Native American Caucus.
  • Prominent organizer in the campaign to halt problematic liquor sales in Whiteclay.

LaMere is remembered for persistent grassroots work that linked local public-health concerns with broader political advocacy on behalf of Native American communities.