The First Native American Spiritual Marathon started in 1978 by Dennis Banks, co-founder of the American Indian Movement. Over 500 North American tribes agreed to walk from San Francisco to Washington, D.C., to show the dismal plight of Native people and lobby for the Native American Freedom of Religious Act. The California 500 Mile American Indian Spiritual Marathon Relay Team, following the leadership and tradition of early Native American runners who were messengers, is a multicultural group dedicated to preserving the tradition of spiritual running.

The American Indian Movement continues to support the marathon. Their principal message is: “All Life is Sacred.