Marie Louise Cruz ( born November 14 , 1946 ) , known as Sacheen Littlefeather , is an Apache actress and activist for Native American rights . On March 27 , 1973 , she represented Marlon Brando at the 45th Academy Awards to decline the Best Actor award for his performance in '' The Godfather '' . The favorite to win , Brando boycotted the ceremony in protest of Hollywood 's portrayal of Native Americans and to draw attention to the standoff at Wounded Knee . During her speech , the audience was divided between jeers and applause
45th Academy Awards
45th Academy Awards
Sacheen Littlefeather