Leonard Peltier-Real Freedom Fighter

This weeks Real Freedom Fighter is Leonard Peltier.

Born September 12, 1944 in Grand Forks, North Dakota to Leo Peltier and Alvina Robideau. He spent his early years with his grand-parents on the Turtle Mountain Reservation and later joined the American Indian Movement. He was a participant when AIM went to assist the Oglala Lakota people on the Pine Ridge reservation in 1975.

On June 25, 1975 a shootout occurred between AIM members and FBI Agents Jack Coler and Ronald A. Williams resulting in the deaths of the two agents. Three AIM members were tried for murder in two seperate trials. Two members were acquitted based on self-defense, while Brother Peltier was the only person convicted.

Although promised clemency by Bill Clinton, he was denied in favor of crooked financier Mark Rich. In prison he has become a noted author, artist, and beloved grandfather. His last parole hearing was held on July 28, 2009. The board has 21 days to render a decision.

Yes Cuba, Iran, and North Korea, we do have political prisoners in the United States. The FBI and Justice Department waged war on the American Indian Movement, the Black Panther Party, and the Young Lords. Leonard Peltier is a victim of that war. He deserves our admiration, love and respect as a true Freedom Fighter.

You can lend your support by visiting his website at www.leonardpeltier.net.