COMMITTEE
REMINDS PERUVIAN PRESIDENT OF PETITION FOR HUGO BLANCO
[The following is the text of a cable sent November 11 to the president of Peru by the U. S. Committee for Justice to Latin American Political Prisoners. ]
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To: President Fernando Belatinde Terry
Lima, Peru ;
Dear Mr. President:
We would like to remind you of the recent petition sent by 400 scholars from New York City asking clemency for Hugo Blanco. In addition we know that other messages were sent from Europe, Canada and Asia all concerned about Hugo Blanco and his companions.
Therefore when we hear that the Supreme Council of Military Justice is being asked to reinstate the death penalty we are shocked. Blanco was not a military man and should have been tried before a civil court. That is how things are done in most civilized nations. In addition it is plain that the death of Blanco will not stop social change in Peru. His death however would brand his executioners as bereft of humanity and sanity. Only fear would drive anyone to the insane conclusion that Blanco's death will halt social movement in Peru. Do not allow Peru to be disgraced by the wanton murder of a man who has desired only that justice be done the people of Peru.
Free Hugo Blanco and his companions.
Felix J. McGowan
Executive Secretary
U.S. Committee for Justice. to
Latin American Political Prisoners
USLA JUSTICE