Wangari Maathai

Three Cheers!

--ryan




THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE FOR 2004

The Norwegian Nobel Committee has decided to award the Nobel Peace Prize for 2004 to Wangari Maathai for her contribution to sustainable development, democracy and peace.

The Nobel Committee has chosen wisely and acknowledged that peace on earth depends on our ability to protect our living environment.

"Maathai stands at the front of the fight to promote ecologically
viable social, economic and cultural development in Kenya and in Africa. She has taken a holistic approach to sustainable development that embraces democracy, human rights and women's rights in particular. She thinks globally and acts locally. Maathai stood up courageously against the former oppressive regime in Kenya. Her unique forms of action have contributed to drawing attention to political oppression - nationally and internationally."

Protecting forests against desertification is a vital factor in the
struggle to strengthen and protect our Mother Earth. Maathai founded
the Green Belt Movement where, for nearly thirty years, she has
mobilized poor women to plant 30 million trees. Through education,
family planning, nutrition and the fight against corruption, the Green
Belt Movement has prepared the way for grass-root action and been a
"strong voice speaking for the best forces in Africa to promote peace
and good living conditions on that continent".

Wangari Maathai is the first woman from Africa to be honored with the
Nobel Peace Prize. She represents "an example and a source of
inspiration for everyone in Africa fighting for sustainable
development, democracy and peace".

Leonard Peltier and his Defense Committee wish to congratulate Wangari Maathai on receiving this great honor.

We also wish to thank those who nominated Leonard for the Prize and the supporters worldwide who wrote to the Nobel Committee to support Leonard's nomination.

Mitakuye Oyasin.

In the Spirit of Crazy Horse,


The LPDC
PO Box 583
Lawrence, KS 66044-0583
Telephone: 785/842-5774
Fax: 785/842-5796
Web: www.leonardpeltier.org
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