Message from Gerardo Hernandez of the Cuban Five

After learning of the ruling from the Atlanta Court of Appeals that maintained his sentence of two life terms plus 15 years, Gerardo Hernandez spoke by telephone with Alicia Jrapko of the International Committee to Free the Cuban Five.

"I have just spoken with Gerardo; he was aware of the court ruling," said Jrapko.

"He told me that he wasn’t surprised, that this is the same justice system that has incarcerated Mumia Abu-Jamal, Leonard Peltier and the Puerto Rican political prisoners for more than 20 years," she said.

"Let them throw at us as many years as they want, 30, 40; as long as one of you outside is resisting, we will also resist until justice is done," Gerardo Hernandez told Jrapko.

"He told me to tell everyone who asks about him that he is fine, with lots of strength and always looking forward," concluded Jrapko.

Granma 06-06-2008