it's great that more people want to support freedom, but unfortunately the
ATI card is likely the problem and there is probably no workaround. Not
letting the Thinkpad suspend is a possible course of action...
Some cards just require proprietary firmware in order to work. Those parts
are usually inside Linux (so-called binary blobs). Not so with Linux-libre,
so until the manufacturer agrees to release information on how to make the
card operational without using a blob we are stuck with stupid problems like
yours.
Welcome here and good luck with your Radeon card! I started out with one too
and now I'm using an integrated Intel card. It is a relief on many levels,
solid 3D performance (as much as that thing can do anyway) and full stability
+ functionality like suspending etc.
