Marie Louise Cruz (born November 14, 1946), better known as Sacheen Littlefeather, is an American activist and actress. She is best known for Native American rights activism. On March 27, 1973, she stood in for Marlon Brando at the 45th Academy Awards to turn down the Best Actor award for his performance in "The Godfather". Brando did not go to the ceremony in protest of Hollywood's portrayal of Native Americans and to bring attention to the standoff at Wounded Knee. Her speech was met with both jeers and an applause.