Thread by @pslweb

Statement last year from renowned Native leader and political prisoner Leonard Peltier, who has been unjustly incarcerated for more than 44 years: "The year is coming to a close, and with it comes the day most Americans set aside as a day for Thanksgiving."

"I try to imagine what the people who live outside the prison gates are doing, and what they are thinking. Do they ever think of the Indigenous people who were forced from their homelands?"

"Do they understand that with every step they take, no matter the direction, that they are walking on stolen land?"

"Can you imagine, even for one minute, what it was like to watch the suffering of the women, the children and babies and yes, the sick and elderly, as they were made to keep pushing west in freezing temperatures, with little or no food."

"These were my people and this was our land. There was a time when we enjoyed freedom, and were able to hunt buffalo and gather foods and sacred medicines. We were able to fish and we enjoyed the clean, clear water!"

"With the coming of foreigners to our shores, life as we knew it would change drastically."

"Individual ownership was foreign to my people. We were a communal people and we took care of each other. Our grandparents weren't isolated from us! They were wisdom keepers and storytellers, and were an important link in our families. The babies? They were and are our future!"

"Look at the brilliant young people who put themselves at risk, fighting to keep our water and environment clean and safe for the generations yet to come. I smile with hope when I think of them. They are fearless and ready to speak the truth to all who are willing to listen."

"We also remember our brothers and sisters in Bolivia, who are rioting in support of the first Indigenous President, @evoespueblo. His commitment to the people, the land, their resources and protection against corruption is commendable."

"So today, I thank all people who are willing to have an open mind, those who are willing to accept responsibility of planning for 7 generations ahead. For those who are thankful that you have enough food to feed your families, please give to those who aren't as fortunate."

"If you are warm and have a comfortable shelter to live in, please give to those who are cold and homeless. If you see someone hurting and in need of a kind word or two, be that person who steps forward and lends a hand."

"And especially, when you see injustice anywhere, please be brave enough to speak up to confront it."

"I want to thank all who are kind enough to remember me, my family in your thoughts & prayers. Thank you for continuing to support and believe in me. There isn't a minute in any day that passes without me hoping this will be the day I will be granted freedom."

"I long for the day when I can smell clean fresh air, when I can feel a gentle breeze in my hair, witness the clouds as their movement hides the sun and when the moon shines the light on the path to the sacred Inipi. That would truly be a day I could call a day of Thanksgiving."

"Thank you for listening to whomever is voicing my words. My spirit is there with you.

Doksha, In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,
Leonard Peltier"