Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

Dear Brothers, Sisters, Friends and Supporters,

I am very grateful to receive the 2001 Ontario Federation of Labour Human Rights Award. I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to the human rights representatives, executive councils and membership of the OFL for this honor. It gives me great hope to know that the OFL continues to support both me in my personal struggle for freedom, and my people in our continuing quest for human rights and justice. I want to congratulate the OFL for taking a leadership role in Human and Civil Rights in Canada and for recognizing the importance of solidarity and brotherhood. When working people unite to make a better society and world, hope for all of our futures can be embraced.

        I want to personally thank the Canadian labour movement and its national unions for supporting my bid for clemency. Due to the outpouring of support that came forth, we came painfully close to succeeding. It appears as though Bill Clinton had planned to sign my clemency petition, but backed down at the last minute due to behind the scenes pressure. But we have not given up.

        I am encouraged by the new plans of the LPDC Canada and LPDC U.S. and I want to ask the OFL to continue its collaboration with us. Although the clemency defeat was devastating, we must build upon the incredible momentum and support that had united. I understand that the LPDC Canada is developing a national coalition on my behalf, and I am pleased to hear of the growing number of unions and labour leadership that have joined. I hope that more labour organizations here in the U.S. will follow your lead and also be influenced to join our campaign for justice. It is the support of the people that allows me to continue.

        In closing, I want to wish each of you and your families the very best. I know that these are difficult and uncertain times for us all and I am grateful to know that you are still supporting me and my people nonetheless. The OFL's leadership in Human Rights and social justice is needed today more than ever and I thank you for all of your good work.

In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,

/S/ Leonard Peltier