News from Lori's Parents
19 November 1998
In this update:Solitary Confinement
Today marks six weeks of solitary confinement for Lori in Socabaya Prison. Mark leaves for Perú again tomorrow so that Lori can speak with someone.
Rumors
Peruvian government officials stated last week that Lori was listed to be returned to Yanamayo Prison in the high Andes. Such a move would further exacerbate her health problems which were caused by living at that prison in the first place. The same officials later denied making such statements and as of now we do not know whether Lori will remain in Socabaya or be moved elsewhere.
OAS Visits Lori and Faces Obstacles in Perú
Lori was interviewed by one member of the OAS delegation that was on a fact-finding visit to Perú last week. Peruvian officials reported the visit lasted two hours. It was also reported that the OAS delegation was under special protection from the Peruvian government owing to death threats they received from a Peruvian paramilitary group. In addition, and inexplicably, Archbishop Juan Cipriani Thorne of Ayacucho was said to have commented that the OAS has no right to examine human rights in Perú! Also, President Alberto Fujimori, speaking to Peruvian journalists from the pacific economic summit in Malaysia, stated that Lori will never be freed regardless of what the OAS determines or recommends. This further demonstrates President Fujimori's disdain for human rights and international law.
Actions: Mark Your Calendar
November 30 will mark three years since Lori's arrest. On November 30, please FAX the letter below (or one of your own) to President Clinton at 202-456-2461.
On that day, you can also call the White House hotline, 202-456-1111, and express your concern (or outrage). Tell President Clinton that November 30 marks three years of illegal imprisonment in Perú for Lori Berenson. Urge him to use his powers to press Peruvian President Fujimori for Lori's immediate release. Also remind him that Lori Berenson is suffering physically and needs his help NOW.
Sample Letter
(Please download the following letter and fax on Nov. 30th) 202-456-2461
(Attention: Helen, Agency Liaison # 6)
FREE LORI BERENSON
November 30, 1998
The Honorable William Jefferson Clinton
President of the United States
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear President Clinton:
Today, November 30th, marks three years of illegal imprisonment in Perú for Lori Berenson. I urge you to use all your powers to press Peruvian President Fujimori for Lori's immediate release. Lori Berenson's health continues to deteriorate. PLEASE HELP HER NOW!
Sincerely,
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