Update On Vancouver B.C. Tour to Free Leonard Peltier
This last February marked 31 years since Leonard Peltier was apprehended in BC and extradited to the US to face trial for the deaths of two FBI agents who had engaged Leonard, along with other men and women of the American Indian Movement, in a shoot-out on the Jumping Bull compound of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. It has been 31 years that Leonard has been unjustly incarcerated in the US prison system. Leonard Peltier’s case, 31 years later still provides inspiration to all people who struggle against oppression. Leonard continues to commit himself to the struggle of oppressed people, even from behind prison bars. This past week, there has been much work done in Canada to support the Leonard Peltier’s Defense Committee’s campaign for freedom.
In Vancouver and Victoria, hundreds of people attended the four speaking events. The events were hosted at Capilano College, UVIC, the University of British Columbia the Grandview Legion and the Indian Center. An incredible amount of interest was shown by attendees and a strong show of support to help free Leonard from the prison life that continues to be imposed on him.
We would like to extend our thanks to members of the Squamish, Tsartlip and Musqueam Nations who showed their support for Leonard and hosted these events to work towards his freedom. Robert Robideau, LPDC Co-Director was invited to Vancouver for his long-standing role in the Leonard Peltier Defense Committee, and for his direct connection with the case as a co-defendant of Leonard’s in the shootout initiated by two FBI agents in 1975.
Many longtime supporters from Leonard’s original Defense committee in Canada have rejoined the efforts, along with a younger generation, who are enthusiastic to take on the work of freeing the man who is a symbol to our struggle. We are joining the Leonard Peltier supporters in the US and all over the world who are re-committing themselves to the freedom of Leonard Peltier. Other supporters in Canada have committed themselves to yet another Canadian tour, Robert Robideau looks foreword to returning for Leonard Peltier,
His freedom is our freedom,
Aaron Mercredi, Indigenous Rights and Action Project March 31st, 2007
Leonard Peltier Defense Committee
