Leonard Peltier arranges benefit for Haitian children

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 1, 2010
CONTACT: Kari Boushee, Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee, PO Box 7488, Fargo, ND 58106, Telephone: 701/235-2206, contact@whoisleonardpeltier.info.

Leonard Peltier arranges benefit for Haitian children

Moved by news reports about the earthquake in Haiti, renowned Native American activist and artist Leonard Peltier has organized an art auction to benefit the children most affected by the disaster.

An accomplished artist, Peltier has donated his work for the event. Other artists joining him in this effort to include Billy Warsoldier, Faron Blakely, Joanne Bird, Jo Ellis, Leslie Thunderhawk, Kenneth Hari and Chad Brady.

A member of the American Indian Movement, Peltier was wrongfully convicted in connection with the deaths of two agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Despite the courts' acknowledgment of FBI and prosecutorial misconduct in the case, Peltier has been imprisoned since 1976, currently at the U.S. Penitentiary at Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. His case was documented by renowned author Peter Matthiessen ("In the Spirit of Crazy Horse," Viking Press, 1983) and in several films, including "Incident at Oglala," produced and narrated by actor Robert Redford. The 65-year-old Peltier also has been designated a political prisoner by Amnesty International.

Leonard Peltier often donates his artwork to human rights and social welfare organizations to help them raise funds. Most recently, recipients have included Trail of Hope (a Native American conference dealing with drug and alcohol addiction); World Peace and Prayer Day; the First Nation Student Association; and the Buffalo Trust Fund. Leonard Peltier has been widely recognized for his humanitarian works and has won the North Star Frederick Douglas Award; Federation of Labour (Ontario, Canada) Humanist of the Year Award; Human Rights Commission of Spain International Human Rights Prize; 2004 Silver Arrow Award for Lifetime Achievement; and the First Annual Red Nation Humanitarian Award in 2009. Also in 2009, Leonard Peltier was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for the sixth consecutive year.

The benefit will be held at the Trickster Gallery at 190 South Roselle Road in Schaumburg, Illinois, on Saturday, March 6, beginning at 1:00 p.m. Both a live and silent auction will occur and paintings will be on exhibit beforehand.

Trickster Gallery, a program of the American Indian Center of Chicago, is the only Native-operated arts institution in Illinois and is dedicated to providing space for first-voice arts. Trickster Gallery features contemporary Native art (post 1960s) and augments exhibits with film screenings, featured speakers, panel discussions, school tours, and educator workshops.

The auction will be held in conjunction with Trickster Gallery's 5th Anniversary Benefit for the Arts. The public is invited to join Native Folk and Blues musician Keith Secola, the Mark Cleveland Band, Guia Rivera, Aztec Dancers, Native American Drum and Dancers, Native Artist Andrew Morrison, and others in a celebration of First Peopes' art. Call 847-301-2090 or send an e-mail to trickstergallery@aic-chicago.org for ticket information.

Leonard Peltier: Commission issues final parole decision

Today we received word that the parole decision has been affirmed by the U.S. Parole Commission. The Parole Commission made no concessions except for one -- to finally recognize Leonard's "recent prison record of good conduct." The Parole Commission went on to say that Leonard's age, health, and release plan were all considered, but that these elements “don't warrant his release at this time.” All legal arguments made by the Peltier attorney Eric Seitz were rejected.

Once again, we're told that innocence is no defense. Yet again, the government has singled out Leonard Peltier as a scapegoat. As has always been the case, they intend to force Leonard Peltier to pay the price for the killings of their agents despite the lack of evidence against him. This is nothing short of politically motivated vengeance.

Leonard won’t receive another full parole hearing until he is nearly 80 years old. Already at risk for blindness, kidney failure, stroke, and certainly premature death given his diet, living conditions, and health care, this parole decision is also nothing less than a death sentence.

Don’t accept the unacceptable. Demand Leonard’s freedom. Call the White House comment line every day to express your outrage. Call: (202) 456-1111 or (202) 456-1112. You also can send an e-mail to the White House. Go to http://www.whitehouse.gov/contact/. Mail or fax a letter to President Barack Obama, The White House, 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, DC 20500; Fax - (202) 456-2461.

24 Feb 2010: Harvey Arden speaks on Leonard Peltier

Author Harvey Arden speaks on Leonard Peltier
Wednesday Nite (TONIGHT!) 7:30 at American University, Washington, DC

For parking and AU info see http://www.american.edu/finance/transportation/lotinfo.cfm.

For additional info, contact Ryan Dubois at sanc.american@gmail.com.

Leonard Peltier Solidarity Statement with Mumia Abu-Jamal

February 13, 2010

Greetings brothers and sisters, and thank you for attending this event to listen, learn, teach, and organize. I am Leonard Peltier, a proud Lakota and Anishinabe American Indian activist, organizer, and patriot. I am likewise, unfortunately, a fellow political prisoner in this 'land of the free.'

I, along with my family, my supporters, and American Indians everywhere, know full well what the justice system of the United States can mean to the brown man, the black man, and any man or woman who dares to think or talk truth to power.

That we have been made targets in our own country should outrage every single man and woman everywhere, no matter the color, background or political leaning. That this country continues the barbaric practices of executions should be opposed by all people of conscience.

Whether or not you approve of capital punishment is irrelevant as long as minorities are executed with alarming disparities. Whether you approve or not is of secondary concern when people like Mumia Abu Jamal, myself and many others are convicted and sentenced to die with evidence that would exonerate most any white man. As such, every single progressive organization should oppose the death penalty as we now know it.

This has not been a case of justice or the law, it has been politics, racism, and control, and we should confront these issues long before we decide who to execute. As long as we have these inequities in our midst, we will continue to convict and execute innocents. Execute - let's call it what it really is - state sanctioned murder! Why does America allow this brand of 'justice' to exist?

That is a question that must haunt the soul of every true American patriot. For as long as it does, America can never be the bastion of freedom it has claimed to be, the light in the darkness it wants to be, nor the high ground of morality it hopes to be.

Pay attention to the names this government uses when it is opposed. The American government has called other countries 'evil empire' and 'axis of evil.' The rest of the world hears this and scoffs!

Why? Because they see this country convicting, imprisoning, and executing innocent minorities and political liabilities while claiming to be a free society - because they see corporate personhood allowing the rape of the Earth and desecration of the sacred - because they see this country waging illegal war while claiming to love peace - and because they see this country propping up murderous dictators while giving lip service to human rights. The rest of the world sees all of this and wonders, is not America the real evil empire?

I, like Mumia, have been called a terrorist by my own government. Well, I never knew a terrorist who advocated the rule of law as we have. Some people need to find a new dictionary!

There may be other parts of the world which are breeding grounds for terrorism, but this government makes sure they have fertile ground to harvest. We are not the terrorists! I love my country. Progressive thinking people love this country. It is thusly our patriotic duty to respond to such government with righteous indignation! It is only when we allow a corrupt government to corrupt our very minds that a patriot becomes a terrorist!

As long as you are willing to work for justice, all political prisoners can still hope for freedom. Real power starts from the bottom and goes up, not the other way around. Free Mumia!

In solidarity,


Leonard Peltier

NYC: Save the Date for Leonard Peltier!

Save the Date for Leonard Peltier!

Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2010 @ 7 p.m.

Sixth Street Community Center
638 East 6th Street, Manhattan


It was a devastating blow to learn that Leonard was denied parole after his July 28, 2009, parole hearing. He met every condition required to be granted parole, and, although innocent, has remained in prison for more than 35 years. Please join us to support Leonard!

We will show short films and have a letter writing night to support Leonard starting at 7 pm.

At Sixth Street Community Center you'll find the Organic Soul Cafe in the same building; they serve gourmet organic, healthy, home cooked food. Prices are modest so people can buy dinner or a snack. Please pay when ordering!

It is easier to get there than you think! From anywhere on 14th St., take the bus east.

The 14A bus, 14B, or 14C. The bus will travel east on 14th St., then make a right on Avenue A or B or C. Get off at the stop closest to 6 th St then walk a block or two to 6th Street Community Center.

You can also get there by taking the F train to the Second Avenue stop, exiting out the First Avenue exit, then walking 6 blocks to Sixth Street, and 2 and a half blocks east. That is a long walk!

Your choice of a donation at the door, or sign two letters for Leonard!!

nyclpsg@gmail.com • nyclpsg@yahoo.com • www.whoisleonardpeltier.info

Spotlight on Repression

MARK YOUR CALENDAR
Forward and post widely
Thank you!


SPOTLIGHT ON REPRESSION
A Fundraiser for the Jericho Movement to Free All Political Prisoners and the Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee


SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 28TH, 2010
6-9:00PM
Doors open at 5:30


SPONTANEOUS CELEBRATIONS
45 DANFORTH STREET, JAMAICA PLAIN, MA
(Stonybrook stop on the Orange Line)


UPDATES ON POLITICAL PRISONERS LEONARD PELTIER, OSO BLANCO, MUMIA ABU JAMAL

KEYNOTE BY BOSTON CITY COUNCILOR CHUCK TURNER

Updates by Ashanti Alston, Andrea Hornbein, Russell Peters


Presented by Jericho Boston
Information: jerichoboston@yahoo.com

Pete Seeger Supports Parole for Leonard Peltier. Do You?

Write your letter of support for Leonard Peltier's parole today. As you know, Leonard's application for parole was denied in August 2009. Leonard has appealed that decision and needs our support. Leonard has not given up. We can't give up, either. In fact, let's intensify our efforts on Leonard's behalf.

Actively support the parole of Leonard Peltier as you did last summer. Insist on a fair reconsideration of Leonard's application for parole.

Write a brief and to-the-point letter to the U.S. Parole Commission at 5550 Friendship Boulevard, Suite 420, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815-7286, Re: Leonard Peltier #89637-132.

You can fax your letter to (301) 492-6694, if you wish.

The Commission has no public e-mail.

[Video] Marilyn Black Elk Speaks on Behalf of Leonard Peltier

Peltier Rally in Boulder, CO, on 06 February 2010:

[Photos] Peltier forum on 06 February 2010 in San Jose

San Jose, CA: Honoring Leonard Peltier: 34 Years of Illegal Imprisonment, a fundraiser for the Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee sponsored by the Bay Area Leonard Peltier Support Group. Thanks go out to Donna Wallach. The photos are great. Thank you to all of you for standing strong, as always.

[Video] Time to be Free

Time to be Free, Music & Lyrics by Stan Silver, Video produced by Stan Silver, directed by Joshua Lang, Copyright 2010

[Video] Change for Leonard Peltier

AIM West: System Change not Climate Change, 20 February 2010

Click on image to enlarge.

On This Day

On this date, February 12, 1991, Leonard Peltier, who was wrongfully convicted in connection with the shooting deaths of two FBI agents in the 1970s on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, was denied a new trial by a federal judge in Kansas.

A version of this article appeared in print on February 13, 1991, on page A18 of the New York Times.

February 13, 1991
Indian Leader Denied New Trial in Slayings
AP

TOPEKA, Kan., Feb. 12— A Federal district judge today denied a new trial for Leonard Peltier, a former leader of the American Indian Movement who has been imprisoned 15 years in the slayings of two Federal agents at the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota.

Mr. Peltier, who is serving consecutive life sentences, had told the judge at a hearing last week that the Federal Bureau of Investigation had so intimidated another Federal judge, who presided at the Peltier trial in North Dakota in 1977, that the proceedings had been unfair. He also testified that new evidence would show the gun he was charged with using could not have fired the shots.

With those arguments, Judge Richard Rogers was asked to take over the case, since Mr. Peltier is serving his sentences at the Leavenworth Federal penitentiary in Kansas. But today Judge Rogers instead granted the Government's motion to send arguments over the new evidence back to the judge in North Dakota, Paul Benson.

In his ruling, Judge Rogers noted that Peltier's lawyers had twice sought to get Judge Benson disqualified in the case. "In sum," he wrote, "the court finds no indication of any personal bias on the part of the trial judge."

Reading of Leonard Peltier's Letter to the World, 06 February 2010

On February 6, 2010, at the court house rally in Boulder, CO, a reading of Leonard's message to the people of the world read by Mark Holtzman.

It's About Time!

Air Date: Monday, 08 February 2010

MSNBC commentator Keith Olbermann wraps up by slamming Senate officials for ignoring the crisis on Indian reservations in South Dakota!

First, send a note of thanks to Keith Olbermann at countdown@msnbc.com. Seriously. Do it.

Second, contact the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs and demand that they take action on behalf of SD tribes now.

Committee on Indian Affairs
United States Senate
838 Hart Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: (202) 224-2251
E-mail: comments@indian.senate.gov

And help spread the word about the The Cheyenne River Sioux Disaster Relief Fund.
Also these:

• Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe's new online donation page
• Native American Heritage Association (NAHA)

[Photos] Toronto, Canada: Peltier Forum, 06 February 2010

[Video] Boulder Peltier Rally, 06 February 2010

Courtesy of GaiaPod, electricbrave's Channel
Many thanks to Pony Boy from Colorado Springs for filming the event.















More:

A Call to Action: Fair Reconsideration of Parole for Leonard Peltier

A Call to Action
February 8, 2010


Attention, Supporters! February 6 has come and gone. We've had a day of rest, too. It's time to get busy once again.

As you know, Leonard's application for parole was denied in August 2009. Leonard has appealed that decision and needs our support. Leonard has not given up. We can't give up, either. In fact, let's intensify our efforts on Leonard's behalf.

Actively support the parole of Leonard Peltier as you did last summer. Insist on a fair reconsideration of Leonard's application for parole.

Write a brief and to-the-point letter to the U.S. Parole Commission at 5550 Friendship Boulevard, Suite 420, Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815-7286, Re: Leonard Peltier #89637-132.

You can fax your letter to (301) 492-6694, if you wish.

The Commission has no public e-mail.

Once you've sent off your letter to the Commission, please also call President Obama’s comment line at (202) 456-1111 or (202) 456-1112. Tell the President to support the parole of Leonard Peltier.

There was a crippling snow storm in the Washington metropolitan area this past weekend. Service at the White House may be disrupted as a result. Be patient and keep calling until you get through to the comment line. Generally, the White House comment line is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., EST.

Remember also that if the lines are busy, you can call the switchboard at (202) 456-1414. Ask for the comment line. You may be placed on hold until the next available staffer can take your call.

We thank you in advance for your attention to this urgent matter -- as well as your time, effort, and commitment.

In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,


The Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee

Contact:

LP-DOC - PO Box 7488 - Fargo, ND 58106
(701) 235-2206 (Phone); (701) 235-5045 (Fax)
www.whoisleonardpeltier.info
contact@whoisleonardpeltier.info

Former FBI agent falsely claims Peltier Confesses to "Incident at Oglala"

PELTIER CONFESSES TO “INCIDENT AT OGLALA”

The above headline was the sensationalistic title of a posting made by a former agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Ed Woods. Director of the No Parole Peltier Association (with an apparent membership of one), Woods used the title on that organization’s blog on February 6.

What is clear to even the most casual of observers is that Woods used this title with Google indexing in mind, as well as Internet users’ short attention spans. His hope was that the posting would be widely circulated and that all folks would do is read (and believe) the title.

This likely was also a veiled attack on actor Robert Redford who was recently interviewed on Democracy Now! about the Peltier case and the documentary film, "Incident at Oglala," (produced and narrated by Redford). You can view the interview here.

Scandalous. Shame on you, Mr. Woods.

First? It’s generally accepted that if people write in all caps on the Internet, it means they’re shouting. How rude!

We could ignore Woods’ lack of manners, but we won’t ignore the lies in his critique of Leonard Peltier’s February 6 statement.

We challenge you to read Leonard’s statement (here) and find any instance where Leonard confessed to killing the agents.

Native American activist Leonard Peltier was wrongfully convicted in 1977 on the basis of fabricated and suppressed evidence, as well as coerced testimony. The United States Courts of Appeal have repeatedly acknowledged investigatory and prosecutorial misconduct in his case. The ballistics evidence withheld by prosecutors and the FBI alone should have mandated Peltier’s release from prison—at minimum, a new trial.

Currently imprisoned at the U.S. penitentiary in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, Leonard maintains his innocence, as he has for 34 years, but Mr. Woods uses this quote from Leonard’s February 6th statement as his alleged proof of a confession:

“I never thought my commitment would mean sacrificing like this, but I was willing to do so nonetheless. And really, if necessary, I’d do it all over again, because it was the right thing to do.”

Let’s be clear. Leonard merely affirmed that he would—then and now—stand up for the survival of his People and fight for Indigenous Rights regardless of the consequences (known or unknown).

That is warrior way. Mr. Woods clearly knows little of Indigenous culture, despite his claim to the contrary.

It’s also American way. Our liberties are always worth defending, we’re told.

“It will bring an everlasting mark of infamy on the present generation, enlightened as it is, if we should suffer them to be wrested from us by violence without a struggle, or to be cheated out of them by the artifices of false and designing men.” (Samuel Adams)

Mr. Woods has always made outrageous claims, but his current approach is downright insidious.

Former agents’ new stratagem is to save Leonard’s soul—bring him to God, so to speak. Woods and others literally evangelized at Leonard’s July 2009 parole hearing. Woods did the same in this latest blog posting. These are men, remember, who were once sworn to defend the U.S. Constitution. Perhaps they never read the First Amendment. They clearly have no respect for the spiritual beliefs of others—well, at least Indians.

We notice that Mr. Woods refers to us as “our Indians” [emphasis added] in those newsletters of his, too, usually while bragging about “taking care of” our People on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Such comments remind us of those of former agent Norman Zigrossi who, in documentaries that have been made about Leonard’s case, has stated outright that the Indigenous Peoples of North America are “conquered people”.

Make no mistake about it. These sentiments are at the very root of everything that occurred on the Pine Ridge reservation in the 70s. Clearly not a great deal has changed since then. It’s the white man’s way or no way?

Whether merely thought or spoken, these are oppressor’s words. Mr. Woods would have us accept them.

Our freedom is a blessing from Creator, not of men... We must therefore respectfully decline.

We’ll do things Indian way, thank you very much.

We will never give in. We will never yield to force. We will never yield to apparently overwhelming might.

We will never be “conquered people”.

And we will survive.

In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,


The Leonard Peltier Defense Offense Committee

Contact:

LP-DOC - PO Box 7488 - Fargo, ND 58106
(701) 235-2206 (Phone); (701) 235-5045 (Fax)
http://www.whoisleonardpeltier.info/
contact@whoisleonardpeltier.info

Celebrate Freedom with Me [Feb. 6 Statement by Leonard Peltier]

Greetings to everyone,

34 years. It doesn’t even sound like a real number to me. Not when one really thinks about being in a jail cell for that long. All these years and I swear, I still think sometimes I’ll wake up from this nightmare in my own bed, in my own home, with my family in the next room. I would never have imagined such a thing. Surely the only place people are unjustly imprisoned for 34 years is in far away lands, books or fairy tales.

It’s been that long since I woke up when I needed to, worked where I wanted to, loved who I was supposed to love, or did what I was compelled to do. It’s been that long-long enough to see my children have grandchildren. Long enough to have many of my friends and loved ones die in the course of a normal life, while I was here unable to know them in their final days.

So often in my daily life, the thought creeps in-“I don’t deserve this”. It lingers like acid in my mouth. But I have to push those types of thoughts away. I made a commitment long ago, many of us did. Some didn’t live up to their commitments, and some of us didn’t have a choice. Joe Stuntz didn’t have a choice. Neither did Buddy Lamont. I never thought my commitment would mean sacrificing like this, but I was willing to do so nonetheless. And really, if necessary, I’d do it all over again, because it was the right thing to do. We didn’t go to ceremony and say “I’ll fight for the people as long as it doesn’t cost too much”. We prayed, and we gave. Like I say, some of us didn’t have a choice. Our only other option was to run away, and we couldn’t even do that. Back then, we had no where left to run to.

I have cried so many tears over these three plus decades. Like the many families directly affected by this whole series of events, my family’s tears have not been in short supply. Our tears have joined all the tears from over 500 years of oppression. Together our tears come together and form a giant river of suffering and I hope, cleansing. Injustice is never final, I keep telling myself. I pray this is true for all of us.

To those who know I am innocent, thank you for your faith. And I hope you continue working for my release. That is, to work towards truth and justice. To those who think me guilty, I ask you to believe in and work for the rule of law. Even the law says I should be free by now, regardless of guilt. What has happened to me isn’t justice, it isn’t the law, it isn’t fair, it isn’t right. This has been a long battle in an even longer war. But we have to remain vigilant, as we have a righteous cause. After all this time, I can only ask this: Don’t give up. Not ever. Stay in this fight with me. Suffer with me. Grieve with me. Endure with me. Believe with me. Outlast with me. And one day, celebrate freedom with me. Hoka hey!

In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,


Leonard Peltier

NMAI Honor Wall: Leonard Peltier

Other Honors

Leonard Peltier has been widely recognized for his humanitarian works and has won several human rights awards, including the North Star Frederick Douglas Award; Federation of Labour (Ontario, Canada) Humanist of the Year Award; Human Rights Commission of Spain International Human Rights Prize; 2004 Silver Arrow Award for Lifetime Achievement; and the First Red Nation Humanitarian Award in 2009. Also in 2009, Leonard Peltier was nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize for the sixth consecutive year.

The People's Art: Leonard Peltier

Watts district, Los Angeles, CA

For Your Book Shelf: Leonard Peltier

Learn more about the Peltier case:

• Have You Thought Of Leonard Peltier Lately? by Harvey Arden
• In the Spirit of Crazy Horse by Peter Matthiessen
• Prison Writings: My Life Is My Sun Dance by Leonard Peltier
• The Trial of Leonard Peltier by Jim Messerschmidt

Educate Others: Leonard Peltier

Raise Awareness About Peltier's Case

Due to the political nature of the Peltier case, a high level of public awareness is critical if new legal efforts are to succeed. Here's some of the things you can do to educate your community about the Peltier case:

• Set up literature tables at events/public places. Download publications (see links under Resources on our main menu).
• Organize teach-ins.
• Host speaking engagements with Peltier spokespeople.
• Plan showings of electronic media. While "Incident at Oglala" is out of print, copies still in circulation are often available for purchase from Amazon.com, eBay, etc., and VHS and DVD copies are available to rent in many rental outlets. Amazon.com also offers a downloadable, low-cost digital version. Restrictions apply. We also strongly recommend "Warrior," on VHS. Order online through Native Videos.
• Write letters to editors of local newspapers. Click here for newspapers in your state. Also read these tips.
• Encourage community television stations to highlight the case. Click here for TV stations in your state.
• Place calls to radio call-in shows. Express your opinions and educate others.
• Hold book readings featuring "My Life Is My Sun Dance" by Leonard Peltier.

More Suggestions

Call to Action for Leonard Peltier

As of tomorrow, 6 February 2010, Leonard Peltier has been imprisoned for 34 years!

Recommit yourself to The Struggle. Fight for Leonard's freedom as never before.

Mark the day by taking action. Contact the Attorney General's office to demand an Executive Review of the Peltier case. Keep your message brief and to the point:

"Mr. Holder, you've said your job is to do the right thing. In light of documented misconduct in the Peltier case, it's past time that you conduct an Executive Review of the case and take the necessary steps to right the wrongs. The Constitution demands it. I demand it. The right thing? Conduct an Executive Review now."

Address: Attorney General Eric Holder, 950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20530

E-Mail: askdoj@usdoj.gov; (Mark your message to the attention of the Attorney General.)

Phone: Make that call to Attorney General Eric Holder. Demand an Executive Review of the Peltier case. Call: (202) 514-2000. Ask for the AG or leave a message on the comment line. Alternatively, call the comment line directly: (202) 353 1555. Let it ring. They will pick up--may take a minute.

Fax: (202) 307-6777

And don't forget to sign the online petition!

LP-DOC Newsletter for February 4, 2010

The Committee's newsletter for February 4, 2010 is online.

You can read the newsletter here.

Indigenous Artists: Leonard Peltier Asks for Your Help

Moved by recent images of children in distress, Leonard is organizing an art auction to benefit the children of Haiti. The benefit will be held at the Trickster Gallery at 190 South Roselle Road in Schaumburg, Illinois, on Saturday, March 6. Leonard asks that other Indigenous artists participate. If you’re interested in donating your artwork for the benefit, please call Kari Ann at the LP-DOC (701-235-2206) or send an e-mail: contact@whoisleonardpeltier.info. Please also help to spread the word to other artists.

Replay: Robert Redford on Democracy Now!

Interview by Amy Goodman with Robert Redford is available at http://www.democracynow.org/.

The introduction to the interview begins at 12:00 min. The interview begins at 14:13 min. Comments on Peltier and "Incident at Oglala," specifically, begin at 38:39 min.



CALL TO ACTION

Please contact Amy Goodman and thank her for doing the interview with Robert Redford and asking him about the Peltier case and "Incident at Oglala". Ask that she do more stories on Peltier, too.

Amy Goodman
Democracy Now!
207 W. 25th St., Floor 11
New York, NY 10001
E-mail: Use the Web form at http://www.democracynow.org/about/contact
Call: (212) 431-9090
Fax: (212) 431-8858

Greetings From Leonard Peltier, February 2010

Greetings from the Iron House. It has come to my attention that a rumor has been circulating about my death. Sorry to disappoint the Trimbachs, Ed Wood, and all the other vermin, but I am still alive and kicking. I continue to struggle for the truth about my case-much of it hidden in the 6,000 documents they are afraid to release-to see the light of day.

I have been monitoring the case with the Crow Creek tribe’s land issues, and have been asked my opinion. As in nearly all things, I come down on the side of the tribe. Sovereignty and self determination are the lynchpins to Indian freedom. I want the people of Crow Creek to know they have my fullest support in their endeavors. This case affects all Indians, and should matter to all people of conscience. Everyone should monitor this case to its fullest conclusion, and know it is yet another example of Indian people’s daily reality. The Indian wars are not over; they just are fought more in the courtrooms and the boardrooms these days. But the issues are mostly the same-the land, resources, and freedom. Freedom to think. Freedom to live as we wish. Freedom to be who we are. Don’t for a second allow yourself to think that the conspirators aren’t working. They’re out there, and as always they’re plotting ways to dispossess and marginalize Indian people at every opportunity.

We were all sad to learn of the passing this past week, of Howard Zinn. A brilliant author, researcher, activist, not to mention a fine human being and a friend to my cause, his loss is a blow to all of us who struggle against oppression. Please send up prayers for his family and loved ones, and that his spirit has a good journey.

As always, a big thank you to my family and everyone else helping out at the office, and all my supporters’ world wide. Through your efforts, one day we’ll win my freedom.

In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,


Leonard Peltier

Cindy Sheehan on Leonard Peltier

Blast from the Past (MP3, Click to Listen)

January 31, 2010 - SOAPBOX #49 - Cindy says farewell to beloved and revered Howard Zinn (August 24, 1922 - January 27, 2010), an inspiring and influentual American historian, author, activist, playwright, intellectual and Professor of Political Science at Boston University from 1964 to 1988. He was interviewed on this show by guest-host Cynthia McKinney on September 27, 2009. His trenchant insights are especially valuable now following the attempted health care reform melt-down and the planned "budget freeze" on help for the people - but not on help for the war industry. Cindy replays the interview.

She also hosts Betty Ann Peltier, brother of designated (and innocent) Leonard Peltier, scapegoat for the deaths of two FBI agents at Wounded Knee in the 1970s. (At one time it was widely known that the FBI never proved Leonard was even at Wounded Knee when the agents died.) The interview begins at 45:20 minutes.

Please tune in and let us inform you. It's worth checking out!

State of Emergency: Ice Storms Knock Out Indigenous Infrastructure in South Dakota

Published on Twin Cities Indymedia Movement Media for Minneapolis-St. Paul (http://www.twincities.indymedia.org/)

State of Emergency: Ice Storms Knock Out Indigenous Infrastructure in South Dakota


It has been a devastating winter for weather-related disasters. While there has been a lot of information about (and vital response to) the situation in Haiti, there's another emergency closer to home, one which calls for solidarity with the indigenous people of South Dakota and surrounding areas.

The past weekend's ice storms brought down 2,000 to 3,000 utility poles on the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation in South Dakota, knocking out an already shaky resource infrastructure. Crews are working feverishly, but electricity may be out for up to 30 days in some areas. With no electricity, no heat, no running water, and a wind chill below zero the situation is growing more difficult. The bulk of those most affected by the storm are located on reservations in Pine Ridge, Standing Rock, Eagle Butte and others. This is an urgent state of emergency.

See below for donation information

The Tribal government is setting up shelters and working hard to provide for the community’s needs. The State, the Red Cross, and other Tribes are helping, but options and resources have been drained with the two most recent blizzards.

The Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation is one of the most impoverished communities in the United States. It is about the size of Connecticut: yet there are only a handful of generators on the Reservation, the water pump station is down so there is no running water, the gas stations hasn’t been able to pump gas, and the Tribal grocery store has lost all its perishables.

Action: LaCreek Electric

A State of Emergency has been declared on the Pine Ridge Lakota "Sioux" Indian Reservation. People have died. Many more people are at risk of freezing to death. Another cold front is coming through, yet where is the national media coverage? Does the 'Lacreek Electric Company' - a non-Indian utility often thought to be prejudiced - care that people are suffering, since they are pulling meters every day (which is illegal throughout the rest of the U.S. during the winter months)?

Help put this message out for help. The children and families of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation need our help now. It is urgent that all 40,000 residents of the Oglala Nation have electricity and propane.

Call LaCreek toll free at 800-655-9324 or 605-685-6581 to see how you can help pay into a customer's account, example $5 into ten customers would require a $50 donation by you. Tell LaCreek to make sure tanks are full for ALL area residents between the months of November to March - and to collect any delinquent payments between April and October.

Also, check out this non-profit to see if it is appropriate for you:
Arlene Catches The Enemy 605-867-5771 Ext 13.
Tax Deductable, Non-Profit (501-c-3).
She can take credit cards over the
phone: Pine Ridge Emergency Fund, C/O Economic Development Administration
PO Box 669, Pine Ridge, SD 57770-0669

And call Lakota Plains Propane at 605-867-5199 and find out what homes have elderly or children and if they need money put down on their account to be able to have a warm home tonight.

Action: Other Donations of Funds or Supplies

If you are able to donate funds or supplies--anything will help with short term needs.

1) ITEMS: Warm clothing, batteries, toiletries, bedding are all especially welcome.

2) DONATIONS:
a. If you're hooked into paypal the easiest way to donate is through Pathway to Spirit. 95% of donations go directly to services. You can direct your donations or just click on "most urgent need." The website also includes more details about the crisis.

b. Woodlands Bank is also taking donations (1113 East Franklin Suite 108, Minneapolis). Please donate in the name of the Tiospaye Fund.

c. You can send donations by check directly to the tribe
> Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe
> Attention Tribal Treasurer
> P.O. Box 590
> Eagle Butte, SD 57625

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Please donate if you can, and pass on to others and companies that might be able to provide donations or assistance.

MEDICAL NEEDS: Dialysis Patients/Glucose Strips/Financial Support for Hotels

* The Cheyenne dialysis patients have all been evacuated three hours away to Rapid City, SD. They are staying in hotels for at least a week and half, probably longer. The Tribe is looking into reimbursement sources from CMS and IHS, but in the interim financial contributions are needed to help the families pay for their hotel expenses and food. An account has been set up at Wells Fargo to help with these expenses. You can contribute at any Wells Fargo or send to the Rapid City branch.

CONTRIBUTIONS:
Wells Fargo
Cheyenne Dialysis Patients (c/o Dew Bad Warrior)
Acct. #: 5815904338
1615 N 7th St.
Rapid City, SD 55701

* Medical Items Needed on the Reservation itself (shipping address below):

* Glucose Strips
* First Aid Kits
* Children’s Tylenol
* Children’s Cough Syrup

NEEDED SUPPLIES:
A big thank you to Wal-Mart for sending some initial food and supplies!! Additional items are needed, especially for the communities whose electricity is expected to be down for up to 30 days. Please forward to any companies that manufacture these items that may be of assistance.

* CONTRIBUTIONS: Can be made directly to the Tribe’s emergency fund listed below.
* IN KIND: Or if you prefer to make in-kind donations:

* Non-perishable food
* Cots
* Heat sources (heaters & fuel)
* Camp stoves & fuel
* Light sources:

* Lithium 1, 2 and 3 batteries for law enforcement
* Lamps/Batteries/Lamp Oil

* Toiletries
* Toilet paper
* Paper products for the shelters
* Pampers/formula
* Hand/baby wipes/Hand sanitizer

FINANCIAL DONATIONS:
The Tribe has depleted its emergency budget with the two blizzards that already hit the reservation since December. It needs funds to help buy food and supplies for the community and volunteers, to pay for gas and overtime for the workers, to replace the motor at the water pump station that was destroyed, etc. Any financial donations are much appreciated. The Tribe is also trying to set up on-line donations but that may take some time.

WIRE DONATIONS TO:
Cheyenne River Sioux 2010 Disaster Account
Direct to: United Bkrs Bloomington ABA # 091 001 322
Beneficiary Bank: Account Number 250 3373
State Bank of Eagle Butte
Eagle Butte, SD 57625
Final Credit: Account Holder @ UBB Customers Bank
Account Holder: CRST 2010 Disaster, Account Number 103173

MAIL CHECK DONATIONS TO:
TO: Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe/2010 Disaster Account
Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Chairman’s Office
Attn: Ice Storm Emergency Fund
PO Box 590
2001 Main Street (Tribal Offices)
Eagle Butte, SD 57625

SHIP SUPPLIES TO:
Cheyenne River Sioux Tribal Chairman’s Office
Attn: Ice Storm Emergency Supplies
PO Box 590
2001 Main Street (Tribal Offices)
Eagle Butte, SD 57625

CHEYNNNE RIVER SIOUX CONTACTS:
Robin Le Beau, Chairman’s Assistant (610) 568-2101
Joe Brings Plenty, Tribal Chairman (605) 365-6548
CRST Emergency Coordination Center (605) 964-7711

Thank you for any help you can provide or action you can take at this time for the people of South Dakota.

UPDATE: The Bush Foundation has announced that they will match donations to help the Cheyenne River Sioux. Go to www.bushfoundation.org for more details.