Peltier support rally May 12

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A public rally to increase awareness and encourage public support for the return of Leonard Peltier to Canada will occur in Edmonton on Tuesday, May 12 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

The rally, part of a North American tour entitled "Solidarity with South African and Native American Political Prisoners," is geared to freeing political prisoners. Two dozen American cities have already been visited by the tour.

The other political prisoner supported by the tour is South African leader Nelson Mandela.

Peltier, convicted of allegedly murdering two FBI agents in the United States during the 1975 occupation of Wounded Knee, has insisted he is innocent since being captured in Canada back in 1976. He has now spent 10 years behind bars.

The major focus of the rally at the Sacred Heat Catholic community School at 9624 ? 108 Avenue, will be on Peltier. Organizers hope a large crowd will turn out to support this cause.

MPs, MLAs, Metis and Indian leaders, and a number of political support groups are expected to attend.

The tour stresses "the indivisibility of the struggle against oppression and exploitation and for a new, humane, peaceful and prosperous future for all mankind."

Peltier's case has been appealed to the Supreme Court of the United States. That decision is still being awaited.

His lawyer, William Kunstler, a well-known human rights attorney, alleges that evidence against Peltier is questionable. So, too, is his conviction and imprisonment at Leavenworth in the state of Kansas, according to sources representing Amnesty International.

The Leonard Peltier Defense Committee is requesting letters of support as well as financial donations to help defray the legal and political expenses.

Contributions may be forwarded to: International Office of Leonard Peltier Defense Committee, P.O. Box 6455, Kansas City, KS 66106.

Letters of support can be sent to: Leonard Peltier #896-37132, P.O. Box 1000, Leavenworth, KN 66048.

A press conference will be held at 9 a.m. on May 11 at the Canadian Native Friendship Centre in Edmonton.