(sample letter to the editor) PRESIDENT CLINTON SHOULD GRANT CLEMENCY TO PELTIER

I am writing in response to the letter written by __________on (date). If there is overwhelming evidence of Leonard Peltier's guilt, then why must the FBI go to such great lengths to keep him in prison? The truth is, no such evidence exists. The FBI is intentionally misleading the public and key officials in order to protect their own reputation. The deaths of the two FBI agents was indeed a terrible tragedy, however, the conviction of an innocent man is also a tragedy and can only dishonor the victims.

Leonard Peltier was convicted in a trial where witnesses were coerced, false testimony was utilized, and a ballistic test reflecting his innocence was concealed. The US Prosecutor now admits that he "can't prove who shot those agents." The judge who denied Mr. Peltier a new trial on a technicality, firmly supports clemency stating, "the FBI used improper tactics in securing Peltier's extradition from Canada and in otherwise investigating and trying the Peltier case."

Mr. Peltier is a perfect candidate for clemency. He has established a remarkable record of human rights achievements from prison, including the establishment of scholarships for Native Americans, the adoption of children in Central America, and food and gift drives for Indigenous communities in need. Outside of his wrongful conviction, his record is totally clean, with no past convictions.

Correcting this injustice would be an important step toward truth and reconciliation with Native Peoples. Three people were actually killed in the shoot-out, two FBI agents and one Native American whose death was never investigated. The shoot-out occurred in the midst of the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation "Reign of Terror," 1973-1976. During this period, vigilantes murdered over 60 members and supporters of the American Indian Movement and assaulted scores more. Despite a large FBI presence, nothing was done to stop the violence and those responsible were never brought to justice.

With this as a backdrop, the wrongful conviction of Leonard Peltier becomes even more disturbing. President Clinton should grant clemency to Leonard Peltier. Doing so would make a powerful statement that our county's shameful treatment of its First Peoples will no longer be tolerated. Such a statement is long overdue.

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FAX THE WHITE HOUSE FROM THE LPDC WEB SITE www.freepeltier.org

SUPPORT CLEMENCY FOR PELTIER!

Leonard Peltier Defense Committee
PO Box 583
Lawrence, KS 66044
785-842-5774 www.freepeltier.org