POLITICAL PRISONER LEONARD PELTIER IS COMING HOME!
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nizhoni Begay, WPLC Communications, communications@waterprotectorlegal.org
Washington, D.C. – January 20, 2025, marks a historic and long-overdue victory for Indigenous rights and justice: Elder Leonard Peltier, the 80-year-old citizen of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians and of Lakota/Dakota descent, is finally coming home. After nearly five decades of unjust imprisonment, Mr. Peltier’s sentence was commuted during the final hours of President Biden’s administration. While commutation is distinct from a full pardon, this monumental decision means Mr. Peltier can return to his family, his community, and his homelands.
His release is far more than the end of his wrongful incarceration in the federal system. It is a powerful reminder of the resilience of Indigenous Peoples and their enduring fight for justice. As a boarding school survivor, Sundancer, Pipe Carrier, artist, grandfather, and warrior for Indigenous rights, Leonard’s life has been an inspiration to many. We honor his legacy and the many sacrifices he has made for his people.
This victory would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of countless individuals and organizations over the past fifty years. While Leonard has also been represented by numerous attorneys - Water Protector Legal Collective included - over the past five decades, this win is not one for or by lawyers and we want to center, honor, and give credit for the record where it’s due: it is a win for the movement.
This moment is a testament to the power of collective action, unwavering solidarity, and relentless advocacy. Thousands of voices worldwide called for Leonard’s release through petitions, letters, prayers, marches, and by sharing his story. Your love and support carried him through decades of hardship, and now, as he steps into freedom, he carries your strength with him.
We also want to especially recognize the powerful advocacy of the last several months of Biden’s presidency by over 120 former and current Tribal leaders, and grassroots organizations including NDN Collective, the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), The Red Nation, Native Organizers Alliance, and the National Boarding School Healing Coalition (NABSHC). These collective efforts, along with the strength of our prayers, made this historic moment a reality.
The path to this moment has been long and filled with heartache, but Leonard’s spirit remained unbroken. Now, he can spend his elder years surrounded by the love of his family, his people, and the lands that have sustained him throughout his life.
The time for healing begins now.
For more information about the background of Mr. Peltier’s case and incarceration please visit:
Human rights organizations and advocates at U.N. 139th Session Call for Release of Leonard Peltier
Last year, we participated in “Leonard Peltier’s Walk To Justice” held by the American Indian Movement Grand Governing Council (AIMGGC). Hear from Steven Donziger, Natali Segovia, and Michael “Rattler” Markus on why it’s important to support Leonard’s case.
WPLC Joins Calls to Action to Support Elder & Political Prisoner, Leonard Peltier
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