Leonard Peltier, a Native American activist, has faced numerous setbacks in his quest for freedom. Despite decades of advocacy from his family, Peltier’s parole requests and presidential pardon petitions have been denied. Most recently, his parole application was rejected, with the next full hearing scheduled for 2039, when Peltier will be 94 years old.
Throughout his incarceration, Peltier has battled serious health issues, including kidney disease and diabetes, raising concerns about his survival. Despite FBI director Christopher Wray’s opposition to his release, Peltier’s family continues to fight for his freedom, emphasizing his contributions to the American Indian Movement and Indigenous rights.
His son, Chauncey, highlights the injustices faced by Indigenous peoples and the healing that Peltier’s release could bring. Described as “just an old man” by his son, Peltier yearns for a peaceful life to paint and work on cars. As his family continues to advocate for his release, they hope to shed light on his legacy beyond the events that led to his imprisonment.