Peltier has been held in federal prison eighteen years for the killing of
the FBI agents during a shoot-out on the Pine Ridge Reservation on June
26th, 1976. Amnesty International describes Peltier as a political
prisoner, land has called for his release.
"I believe wholly that he is innocent," said Lavonne.
Ms. White, age 30, is a deeply spiritual woman committed to the cause of her
people. Through without nourishment since beginning her vigil, her spirits
remain high. Physically, however she is beginning to show signs of strain.
She has lost seven pounds, and while blood tests remain fairly normal, she
is passing the threshold beyond which grave, permanent injury can be
expected. Lavonne began her hunger strike after consulting with traditional
Lakota spiritual leaders regarding a vision she received several years ago.
"It took a long time, in prayer and thought to do this," she said. "I'm
letting go of the vision in this way," She is determined to follow through
on her vow. "I will remain true to my Purpose. I have drawn up a will."
The White House has yet to acknowledge the hunger strike. The Justice
Department has said that Peltier's request for Executive Clemency "is under
active consideration," but will not comment on the status of the request.
In taking this action, Lavonne is walking in the footsteps of her
lineage; She is a direct descendant of Chief Lame Deer, granddaughter of
the Lakota Holy Man John fire Lame Deer, and a blood relation to the great
Oglala warrior Crazy Horse. In a statement last week, Lavonne said: "If I
should die, I will die with truth in my heart and on my lips, and I will cry
for the people of the Earth, for the governments have become monsters with
lies and wrong doings piled high as the heavens." She asks for prayers for
Leonard Peltier, and for President Clinton
Amnesty International, 60 Members of Congress, Nelson Mandela, Mother
Teresa, Rev. Jesse Jackson and the World Council of Christians and Jews are
among the tens of Millions worldwide who have called for Leonard Peltier's
immediate release.
Supporters are encouraged to call the White House to voice their concern.
time is short. Emotional support can be sent to Lavonne White, c/o Inez Two
Elk, PO Box 366, Oglala SD 57765
For more information: Contact L.P.D.C. (913) 842-5774