John Graham Defense Committee - Freedom Returned Photo Album


Home	Freedom Returned (double click a photo to enlarge)
What's New Graham Defense Update - Latest Information - Actions and Events Position Statement Who is John Graham? - Personal Photo Album - A History of Activism - Freedom Returned Statements of Support - Officials and Chiefs - Human Rights Groups - Unions and Activists Media Publications How To Contribute Letter Campaign Media Files Contact Us	On January 16, 2004, John Graham was granted bail by Assistant BC Supreme Court Justice Dohm. John had been incarcerated for 40 days, unable to embrace his loved ones and cut off from the world. A final poetic moment in John's release involved one final signature. Robert Newbrook was the last of John's five volunteer supervisors to sign the release documents. Robert has long spoken about his role in the arrest of Leonard Peltier, and how it has haunted him since he became aware of the fraudulent nature of that US extradition. And so, with the signature of a man who regrets participating in Peltier's arrest, John Graham — Leonard Peltier's friend and fellow warrior in the American Indian Movement — is released from custody.
	Skies clear in the early afternoon at the North Fraser Pre-Trial Detention Centre near Vancouver, where John has been held for the past 40 days.
	Soon after providing the fifth and final signature on John's release documents, Robert Newbrook arrives at the Detention Centre with a cameraman for the CBC.
	Family and friends anxiously await John's release. From left to right are Matthew Lien of the John Graham Defense Committee, John's daughter Chusia, and Cristina Soto from the Friends of John Graham.
	More friends arrive, including those with whom John will reside. Longtime friend Vince Eastman waits with Chusia.
	Cameramen discuss options for camera locations with a guard, who informs them that their cameras are not to be on the property.
	At last... and as seen from our distant vantage point allowed by the guards, John emerges from the side exit accompanied by a guard. Matthew and Chusia (who can barely contain herself) are looking on.
	Chusia runs into the arms of her father, in an embrace not shared for many weeks.
	This photo of John holding his daughter graced the front page of the Yukon News (published in John's home territory), and sums up the reason behind the effort to secure John's release. At this moment, all of us looking on have a clear vision of what we are fighting for — for the right to live and love one another, and to prevent a long list of victims to grow any further.
	John turns to see the group of supporters, while both he and Chusia let there elation be shown.
	John greets his good friend and house-mate, Vince.
	Robert Newbrook presents John with a shirt which has an eagle feather and the word "SPIRIT" on the front. The shirt will be worn in television interviews the following day.
	Robert inspects John's humble belongings.
	John greets his friend and supporter Cristina.
	Joni Miller takes a break from her role as photographer, and poses with John. Also seen is a "Free John Graham" t-shirt hot off the press, and bearing Joni's graphics skills.
	Matthew, John and Chusia standing together.
	In a "fathers and daughters" photo op, Robert stands beside his daughter Kelly, and John with his daughter Chusia.
	John receives the first cup of "real" coffee in a long time. Canadians should recognize the brand...
	John greets the media eager to know how he is feeling. Emotions are running high and relief is in the air, but "the fight is just beginning", John tells reporters.
	Weary from a long night, John shares his thoughts with the media for the first time in months. In interviews over the following days, John will share his thoughts and experiences in greater detail than ever before.
	Turning to the days ahead, Chusia, John and Matthew head for the van.
	Now letting the exhaustion show, Chusia and John relish the reality of freedom. This is a great day, at last. Thanks to all who helped make this possible.
	More Photos >> - Personal Photo Album - A History of Activism