Mississippi, Goddam! The Scott Sisters Speak in Brooklyn
A community forum regarding the case of the Scott Sisters (see background note below). Attorney Chokwe Lumumba will give updates about the current state of affairs of this case and will provide information about the campaign for their full release. Jamie and Gladys Scott will be teleconferenced in live to share their experiences as well as their ongoing commitment to help others with similar cases. This forum is free and open to the public.
April 23 from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pmat Restoration Plaza
Restoration Plaza, First Floor – Multi-Purpose Room
Located at 1368 Fulton St Brooklyn, NY 11216
Featured Guests: Jamie and Gladys Scott (aka the Scott Sisters) will be featured guests via teleconference.
Panelists: Chokwe Lumumba (legal counsel to the Scott Sisters); Michael Tarif Warren (lawyer activist), Marc Lamont Hill (activist, author, scholar), and Rukia Lumumba (activist); April R. Silver (activist, writer), moderator.
Organized by The Malcolm X Grassroots Movement and the National Conference of Black Lawyers.
For more information, contact Lalit Clarkson at 917.468.7348 or info@mxgm.org
freethescottsisters.blogspot.com
BACKGROUND
In 1993 in Mississippi two young Black women, Jamie and Gladys Scott were each sentenced to double life sentences for an $11 robbery. The trail and conviction of the then 19 and 22 year old women wreaks of the blatant race, gender and class oppression that is rampant throughout the criminal justice system in America. Their defense attorney, who was later disbarred for unrelated incompetency, never called a single witness in the sister's defense. One of the witnesses who testified against them has since recanted his testimony saying he was threatened by police. Ultimately, two of the three men who indeed committed the robbery served 2 years in prison in exchange for testifying against the Scott sisters. Jamie and Gladys maintain their innocence
While in prison, Jamie and Gladys suffered all of the usually physical and psychological abuses of incarceration. The lack of decent health care and nutrition put Jamie Scott in critical need of a kidney transplant. Support for their release grew over the decade and a half of their incarceration, ultimately leading to a suspension of sentence in January of this year - conditional on Gladys donating a kidney to her ailing sister.
Today, the Scott family and their supports urge the governor of Mississippi for a full pardon. Under the suspended sentence they must pay $52 a month for parole, abide by a strict curfew, and live with the constant fear of a parole violation - which would land them back in prison to serve their double-life sentences. Furthermore, without a full pardon, they still live with the stigma of being convicted felons. As felons, they are unable to get jobs, decent housing, and other critical services.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
New lawyers committed to new trial for Mumia Abu Jamal
By Saeed Shabazz -Staff Writer
April 19, 2011
http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/National_News_2/article_7741.shtml
NEW YORK (FinalCall.com) - Mumia Abu-Jamal, 58, often called the “world's most famous death-row prisoner” penned a letter from his cell in Pennsylvania's SCI Greene prison last November telling supporters about changes to his legal team.
“They are experienced intelligent and well-motivated lawyers, who know what they are doing,” he wrote.
On April 3, his supporters, grassroots activists representing anti-death penalty organizations, Pan-Africanists, nationalists, organized labor activists, the Million Worker March and anti-war organizations gathered on the ninth floor in Riverside Church to meet the two lead co-counselors.
Attorney Christine Swarms, director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund's Criminal Justice Project, and Judith Ritter, professor at Widener Law School in Wilmington, Del., were greeted with a rousing ovation from the standing-room only crowd. The applause came with the announcement from event moderator Suzzanne Ross, chairperson of the Free Mumia Abu-Jamal Coalition of New York City, that the Legal Defense Fund had taken on Mr. Abu Jamal's case. “Mumia is very relieved that his case is in the hands of the new team,” Ms. Ross said, before turning the podium over to the two attorneys.
The event co-sponsors were the International Concerned Family and Friends of Mumia Abu-Jamal and the Riverside Church Prison Ministry.
The journalist, former Black Panther and supporter of the police-targeted back to the earth MOVE organization was sentenced to death in 1982 after being found guilty of the Dec. 9, 1981 murder of Philadelphia police officer Daniel Faulkner. Mr. Abu-Jamal has always maintained his innocence.
During his 30-year imprisonment, Mr. Abu-Jamal has published several books, the most notable being “Letters from Death Row” (1995), written newspaper columns and created commentary for radio airplay.
In 2001, the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pa. found constitutional error in the jury instruction and verdict form used in the 1982 penalty phase of his case. The finding was affirmed by the U.S. Court of Appeals in 2008, but was sent back to the Third Circuit Court by the U.S. Supreme Court last year for further review.
Mr. Abu-Jamal's appeal is still pending before the Third Circuit Court. “We do not know when the decision will be made,” Ms. Ritter told the gathering. The legal team's ultimate goal remains a new trial, which has been rejected by many courts, she said.
Ms. Ritter, who has represented the man called the “voice of the people” since 2002, noted Philadelphia's first Black district attorney, Seth Williams, may seek a new penalty trial with a new jury. Ms. Ritter has argued questions over instructions given to the jury before Mr. Abu-Jamal was sentenced to the death penalty in appeals before federal courts in 2007 and 2010.
“It is absolutely an honor to represent Mumia Abu-Jamal,” said Ms. Swarms. “No question the criminal justice system has failed him and that has everything to do with race. That is why the LDF is in this case.”
The activist attorney said the Legal Defense Fund is committed to eliminating racism in the criminal justice system nationally.
“The death penalty is the child of this country, which is a direct descendant of slavery, a violent way of controlling and maintaining slavery,” Attorney Swarms said.
The death sentence became a form of legal lynching by 1930 and 89 percent of those in America sentenced to death for rape between 1930 and 1972 were Black, she noted.
“So you can see that race is the most significant factor in giving the death penalty as a sentence,” Ms. Swarms concluded.
The gathering at Riverside Church received a surprise when Mr. Abu-Jamal called. He thanked everyone for coming out, saying there are so many problems in the country it would seem difficult to get people motivated to deal with his 30-year-old case.
Several people lined up to ask the popular political prisoner questions via telephone. “What has kept your spirit up?” asked one questioner.
“It has been a long, hard struggle. I have been blessed with a loving family. I am inspired when I see people organize against neo-colonial imperialism,” Mr. Abu-Jamal.
Ms. Ross told The Final Call, “The spirit in that room showed the significance of this movement 30 years later. Having the LDF is a major turning point, a lot of lawyers would not touch this case LDF wants to win,” she said.
Pam Africa, the tireless driver of the International Coalition out of Philadelphia, told The Final Call her job is “to agitate and make people stay on the move. The fact of it is we are all on death-row.”
“Support is again growing for Mumia. It's good seeing people come out asking what can collectively be done to free him,” said Ralph Poynter, husband of jailed activist attorney Lynne Stewart. “Lynne says that Mumia is the point person. His life is on the line now her life is on the line tomorrow,” Mr. Poynter added.
April 19, 2011
http://www.finalcall.com/artman/publish/National_News_2/article_7741.shtml
NEW YORK (FinalCall.com) - Mumia Abu-Jamal, 58, often called the “world's most famous death-row prisoner” penned a letter from his cell in Pennsylvania's SCI Greene prison last November telling supporters about changes to his legal team.
“They are experienced intelligent and well-motivated lawyers, who know what they are doing,” he wrote.
On April 3, his supporters, grassroots activists representing anti-death penalty organizations, Pan-Africanists, nationalists, organized labor activists, the Million Worker March and anti-war organizations gathered on the ninth floor in Riverside Church to meet the two lead co-counselors.
Attorney Christine Swarms, director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund's Criminal Justice Project, and Judith Ritter, professor at Widener Law School in Wilmington, Del., were greeted with a rousing ovation from the standing-room only crowd. The applause came with the announcement from event moderator Suzzanne Ross, chairperson of the Free Mumia Abu-Jamal Coalition of New York City, that the Legal Defense Fund had taken on Mr. Abu Jamal's case. “Mumia is very relieved that his case is in the hands of the new team,” Ms. Ross said, before turning the podium over to the two attorneys.
The event co-sponsors were the International Concerned Family and Friends of Mumia Abu-Jamal and the Riverside Church Prison Ministry.
The journalist, former Black Panther and supporter of the police-targeted back to the earth MOVE organization was sentenced to death in 1982 after being found guilty of the Dec. 9, 1981 murder of Philadelphia police officer Daniel Faulkner. Mr. Abu-Jamal has always maintained his innocence.
During his 30-year imprisonment, Mr. Abu-Jamal has published several books, the most notable being “Letters from Death Row” (1995), written newspaper columns and created commentary for radio airplay.
In 2001, the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pa. found constitutional error in the jury instruction and verdict form used in the 1982 penalty phase of his case. The finding was affirmed by the U.S. Court of Appeals in 2008, but was sent back to the Third Circuit Court by the U.S. Supreme Court last year for further review.
Mr. Abu-Jamal's appeal is still pending before the Third Circuit Court. “We do not know when the decision will be made,” Ms. Ritter told the gathering. The legal team's ultimate goal remains a new trial, which has been rejected by many courts, she said.
Ms. Ritter, who has represented the man called the “voice of the people” since 2002, noted Philadelphia's first Black district attorney, Seth Williams, may seek a new penalty trial with a new jury. Ms. Ritter has argued questions over instructions given to the jury before Mr. Abu-Jamal was sentenced to the death penalty in appeals before federal courts in 2007 and 2010.
“It is absolutely an honor to represent Mumia Abu-Jamal,” said Ms. Swarms. “No question the criminal justice system has failed him and that has everything to do with race. That is why the LDF is in this case.”
The activist attorney said the Legal Defense Fund is committed to eliminating racism in the criminal justice system nationally.
“The death penalty is the child of this country, which is a direct descendant of slavery, a violent way of controlling and maintaining slavery,” Attorney Swarms said.
The death sentence became a form of legal lynching by 1930 and 89 percent of those in America sentenced to death for rape between 1930 and 1972 were Black, she noted.
“So you can see that race is the most significant factor in giving the death penalty as a sentence,” Ms. Swarms concluded.
The gathering at Riverside Church received a surprise when Mr. Abu-Jamal called. He thanked everyone for coming out, saying there are so many problems in the country it would seem difficult to get people motivated to deal with his 30-year-old case.
Several people lined up to ask the popular political prisoner questions via telephone. “What has kept your spirit up?” asked one questioner.
“It has been a long, hard struggle. I have been blessed with a loving family. I am inspired when I see people organize against neo-colonial imperialism,” Mr. Abu-Jamal.
Ms. Ross told The Final Call, “The spirit in that room showed the significance of this movement 30 years later. Having the LDF is a major turning point, a lot of lawyers would not touch this case LDF wants to win,” she said.
Pam Africa, the tireless driver of the International Coalition out of Philadelphia, told The Final Call her job is “to agitate and make people stay on the move. The fact of it is we are all on death-row.”
“Support is again growing for Mumia. It's good seeing people come out asking what can collectively be done to free him,” said Ralph Poynter, husband of jailed activist attorney Lynne Stewart. “Lynne says that Mumia is the point person. His life is on the line now her life is on the line tomorrow,” Mr. Poynter added.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
4/23 Philly -- Political Prisoners on War Resisters & Honoring Mumia's Birthday
Saturday, April 23 · 7:30pm - 10:30pm
at
Sanctuary Wholistic Arts
2737 Cambridge Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Created By: Iresha Picot
More Info: April 23rd, at 7:30pm, the "Questioning Incarceration Coalition" would like to invite everyone to join us for a cultural event, with art, music, and poetry, that will focus on solidarity between US Political Prisoners, and War Resistors.
Statements will be read from the writings of political prisoners and former political prisoners such as:
Marshall Eddie Conway
Maroon Shoatz
David Gilbert
Mumia Abu Jamal
Safiya Bukhari
Lynne Stewart
Women of the MOVE 9
Special Guests: Pam Africa from the ICFFMAJ and the MOVE organization, and Russell Maroon Shoatz III, speaking about his father, Political Prisoner Russell Maroon Shoatz
Also, Performances by Kevin Price, Bohiti, I Abdul Jon, Joseph Xavier Mack
**We will be honoring the birthday of death row political prisoner Mumia Abu Jamal. Mumia is on deathrow facing imminent execution and continues to report on international social justice issues. Mumia has been been writing in opposition to US led wars and occupations throughout and prior to his 1981 conviction.
Saturday April 23rd
Sanctuary Wholistic Arts
2737 Cambridge Street
Philadelphia, PA
donations will be collected to help pay for the venue
Presented by: Questioning Incarceration - 215-687-1147, icffmaj@aol.com
at
Sanctuary Wholistic Arts
2737 Cambridge Street
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Created By: Iresha Picot
More Info: April 23rd, at 7:30pm, the "Questioning Incarceration Coalition" would like to invite everyone to join us for a cultural event, with art, music, and poetry, that will focus on solidarity between US Political Prisoners, and War Resistors.
Statements will be read from the writings of political prisoners and former political prisoners such as:
Marshall Eddie Conway
Maroon Shoatz
David Gilbert
Mumia Abu Jamal
Safiya Bukhari
Lynne Stewart
Women of the MOVE 9
Special Guests: Pam Africa from the ICFFMAJ and the MOVE organization, and Russell Maroon Shoatz III, speaking about his father, Political Prisoner Russell Maroon Shoatz
Also, Performances by Kevin Price, Bohiti, I Abdul Jon, Joseph Xavier Mack
**We will be honoring the birthday of death row political prisoner Mumia Abu Jamal. Mumia is on deathrow facing imminent execution and continues to report on international social justice issues. Mumia has been been writing in opposition to US led wars and occupations throughout and prior to his 1981 conviction.
Saturday April 23rd
Sanctuary Wholistic Arts
2737 Cambridge Street
Philadelphia, PA
donations will be collected to help pay for the venue
Presented by: Questioning Incarceration - 215-687-1147, icffmaj@aol.com
CA Federation of Teachers Passes Resolution in Support of Mumia!
Hats off to the California Federation of Teachers!! Despite the spin the media and the Fraternal Order of Police will try to put on this powerful move on the part of the California Federation of Teachers, this is a very important breakthrough for this period. Resolutions of this sort were passed in huge numbers back in 1995 and 1999, when Mumia was threatened with immediate execution as death warrants had been signed by the Governor. We need to revive that kind of grassroots activism. Folks, try to get your union or your local legislative body to pass such a resolution in support of Mumia! We need to revive those kinds of initiatives now!!
International Concerned Family & Friends of Mumia Abu- Jamal and
the Free Mumia Abu-Jamal Coalition (NYC)
CA Federation of Teachers Passes Resolution in Support of Mumia
Caroline May - The Daily Caller – Mon Apr 11, 4:36 pm ET
Between negotiating for more benefits and teaching their students, the California Federation of Teachers has adopted a resolution of support for convicted cop-killer Mumia Abu-Jamal.
At the CFT's 2011 Convention in late March, the delegates passed 30 resolutions, from solidifying support for anti-bullying legislation to supporting transitional kindergarten. Among the resolutions largely pertaining to education and collective bargaining rights was Resolution 19 – to "Reaffirm support for death row journalist."
"Therefore, be it resolved, that the California Federation of Teachers reaffirm its support and demand that the courts consider the evidence of innocence of Mumia Abu-Jamal," the Committee Report reads.
Mumia Abu-Jamal was a former member of the Black Panthers who was found guilty of murdering Philadelphia police officer Daniel J. Faulkner during a routine traffic stop in 1981. Abu-Jamal was subsequently sentenced to death.
His supporters, such as the California Federation of Teachers, argue that his trial was unfair and that he is a civil rights hero.
"Mumia Abu-Jamal has for decades as a journalist fought courageously against racism and police brutality and for the human rights of all people and has taken strong stands in support of working people involved in labor struggles and in support of well-funded, quality, public education," the resolution reads.
Daniel Flynn, author of "Cop killer: How Mumia Abu-Jamal conned millions into believing he was framed" told The Daily Caller that Abu-Jamal was the poster-child for ending the death penalty…20 – 30 years ago.
"Somebody should tell the California Teachers Federation that this is over, he is in jail, he is going to stay there," Flynn said. "You have numerous eyewitnesses saying Mumia did it. You had ballistic evidence – Mumia's gun at the scene was consistent with the bullet used to kill Faulkner. Mumia admitted after the fact that he did it."
Fred Glass, CFT spokesman, told TheDC that the even though the case is 30 years old, since Abu-Jamal is still going through appeals, the issue remains relevant.
"The delegates decided it was time to reiterate that they supported him due to the irregularities that they felt had taken place during his case," said Glass. "They see this as a civil liberties issue, it is quite common for the CFT to take positions on broad social matters like this."
American Federation of Teachers (AFT) spokesman Tom Lansworth, said that this is an issue the national union has never before considered, however, it likely will appear before the AFT at their next convention.
"It appears that one of the intents of the California resolution is to present this issue to the next AFT convention, which will be next year. Our national convention is held every two years. So the California action is part of the normal process of proposing resolutions for debate by the national convention. This does not appear to be an issue that we have acted on before," he told TheDC, adding he had no idea whether the AFT would adopt the resolution.
Either way, Flynn sees the action as the CFT showing their liberal stripes.
"The California Federation of Teachers is reacting to that long tradition on the left that takes murders and makes heroes out of them," said Flynn.
International Concerned Family & Friends of Mumia Abu- Jamal and
the Free Mumia Abu-Jamal Coalition (NYC)
CA Federation of Teachers Passes Resolution in Support of Mumia
Caroline May - The Daily Caller – Mon Apr 11, 4:36 pm ET
Between negotiating for more benefits and teaching their students, the California Federation of Teachers has adopted a resolution of support for convicted cop-killer Mumia Abu-Jamal.
At the CFT's 2011 Convention in late March, the delegates passed 30 resolutions, from solidifying support for anti-bullying legislation to supporting transitional kindergarten. Among the resolutions largely pertaining to education and collective bargaining rights was Resolution 19 – to "Reaffirm support for death row journalist."
"Therefore, be it resolved, that the California Federation of Teachers reaffirm its support and demand that the courts consider the evidence of innocence of Mumia Abu-Jamal," the Committee Report reads.
Mumia Abu-Jamal was a former member of the Black Panthers who was found guilty of murdering Philadelphia police officer Daniel J. Faulkner during a routine traffic stop in 1981. Abu-Jamal was subsequently sentenced to death.
His supporters, such as the California Federation of Teachers, argue that his trial was unfair and that he is a civil rights hero.
"Mumia Abu-Jamal has for decades as a journalist fought courageously against racism and police brutality and for the human rights of all people and has taken strong stands in support of working people involved in labor struggles and in support of well-funded, quality, public education," the resolution reads.
Daniel Flynn, author of "Cop killer: How Mumia Abu-Jamal conned millions into believing he was framed" told The Daily Caller that Abu-Jamal was the poster-child for ending the death penalty…20 – 30 years ago.
"Somebody should tell the California Teachers Federation that this is over, he is in jail, he is going to stay there," Flynn said. "You have numerous eyewitnesses saying Mumia did it. You had ballistic evidence – Mumia's gun at the scene was consistent with the bullet used to kill Faulkner. Mumia admitted after the fact that he did it."
Fred Glass, CFT spokesman, told TheDC that the even though the case is 30 years old, since Abu-Jamal is still going through appeals, the issue remains relevant.
"The delegates decided it was time to reiterate that they supported him due to the irregularities that they felt had taken place during his case," said Glass. "They see this as a civil liberties issue, it is quite common for the CFT to take positions on broad social matters like this."
American Federation of Teachers (AFT) spokesman Tom Lansworth, said that this is an issue the national union has never before considered, however, it likely will appear before the AFT at their next convention.
"It appears that one of the intents of the California resolution is to present this issue to the next AFT convention, which will be next year. Our national convention is held every two years. So the California action is part of the normal process of proposing resolutions for debate by the national convention. This does not appear to be an issue that we have acted on before," he told TheDC, adding he had no idea whether the AFT would adopt the resolution.
Either way, Flynn sees the action as the CFT showing their liberal stripes.
"The California Federation of Teachers is reacting to that long tradition on the left that takes murders and makes heroes out of them," said Flynn.
"WE NEED YOUR SUPPORT" BERLIN FREE MUMIA COALITION
Dear Friends in the USA,
we have an important request for your support.
As you may have heard, Georgia joins the nationwide scramble for Danish lethal injection drugs
http://www.reprieve.org.uk/2011_04_13_georgia_turns_to_lundbeck
The company in question is called Lundbeck and has the sole license for pentobarbital on the US pharmacy market which has been used in executions in Ohio and lately in one attempt in Texas, too.
This danish company is clearly breaking european law in order to profit from the death penalty. So far they were able to conduct their business with Ohio and Texas. Last week Tuesday the US Supreme Court stopped an execution in Texas because it wasn't clear, if the danish chemicals are "safe" to execute american citizens.
Today an Online Petition against the use of european products in the US death penalty started: "Keine Lundbeck-Praeparate fuer Hinrichtungen in den USA"
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/keine-lundbeck-prparate-fr-hinrichtungen-in-den-usa/Additionally european politicians are requested to act on this.
Troy Davis is a death row prisoner in Georgia. The US Supreme Court denied his last appeal last week. If Georgia manages to gain pentobarbital from Lundbeck it will likely resume to publish execution dates again.
Please get the word around in the US and help us by promoting the european online petition as well as writing directely to Lundbeck in order protest their business policies.
http://www.lundbeck.de/kontakt/
If the anti-death penalty movement in the US could consider to call for a boycott of Lundbeck that might help, too.
After european policies helped to force the company Hospira to pull out of the death penalty in the US death penalty together we might be able to stop another profiteer from the "machinery of death".
In solidarity,
the Berlin Free Mumia Coalition
www.mumia-hoerbuch.de
we have an important request for your support.
As you may have heard, Georgia joins the nationwide scramble for Danish lethal injection drugs
http://www.reprieve.org.uk/2011_04_13_georgia_turns_to_lundbeck
The company in question is called Lundbeck and has the sole license for pentobarbital on the US pharmacy market which has been used in executions in Ohio and lately in one attempt in Texas, too.
This danish company is clearly breaking european law in order to profit from the death penalty. So far they were able to conduct their business with Ohio and Texas. Last week Tuesday the US Supreme Court stopped an execution in Texas because it wasn't clear, if the danish chemicals are "safe" to execute american citizens.
Today an Online Petition against the use of european products in the US death penalty started: "Keine Lundbeck-Praeparate fuer Hinrichtungen in den USA"
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/keine-lundbeck-prparate-fr-hinrichtungen-in-den-usa/Additionally european politicians are requested to act on this.
Troy Davis is a death row prisoner in Georgia. The US Supreme Court denied his last appeal last week. If Georgia manages to gain pentobarbital from Lundbeck it will likely resume to publish execution dates again.
Please get the word around in the US and help us by promoting the european online petition as well as writing directely to Lundbeck in order protest their business policies.
http://www.lundbeck.de/kontakt/
If the anti-death penalty movement in the US could consider to call for a boycott of Lundbeck that might help, too.
After european policies helped to force the company Hospira to pull out of the death penalty in the US death penalty together we might be able to stop another profiteer from the "machinery of death".
In solidarity,
the Berlin Free Mumia Coalition
www.mumia-hoerbuch.de
Tuesday, April 05, 2011
Interview with Mumia in Mexican virtual mag "des informemonos"
From icffmaj@aol.com:
Interview with Mumia
'It takes many to make revolution… and many to preserve it'
'About the idea of organizing outside of political parties and the political class —I’m with it. In fact, it may be the only thing that keeps social movements fresh and free from the snares of political corruption.'
Gloria Muñoz Ramírez
A year ago we began trying to arrange an interview with Mumia, one of the best known political prisoners in the world. We sent him letters and requests through all available contacts (including Amigos de Mumia of Mexico) who kindly offered to help get in touch with him on death row in the prison at Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, the state where he’s been imprisoned for 29 years. One fine day an envelope appeared beneath our door with the name of M. A. Jamal as the sender. This is the first interview the African-American activist and ex Black Panther has given to a Mexican news media.
In a two-page, typewritten letter, Mumia speaks of the need for social organization; of political parties as 'servants of capital'; of the relevance of autonomous movements and the proposals of the EZLN; of the African-American movement in the United States; of the teachings of Franz Fanon; and of the expectations aroused by Obama when he became President in a country where 'Blacks hold offices but have little power.'
The way Mumia sees it, 'the struggle continues.'
The interview with Mumia follows in the format of his choice:
Hola! I’ll try to address some of your concerns in this format. Here we go!
How to organize
There is no single, one way nor one event that sparks such things. Because people are complex, and, of course, conditions change. Organizing begins, according to the great C.L.R. James, when 2 people agree to work together. Mao said that ‘a single spark can start a prairie fire’, and that certainly seems to be the case when you look at Egypt and Tunisia of the past few weeks. But it’s also true that organizing has been talking place (especially in Egypt) for some time now, and it appears many people just reached a breaking point.
Political parties
Many, indeed, most political parties, especially in the metropolis, have become open servants of capital, and thus compete, not even pretending to represent the people, but in service to Weath. The French historian De Tocqueville famously said, 'Than politics the American citizen knows no higher profession – for it is the most lucrative.' He wrote this over 150 years ago! They are actually impediments to the needs and the interests of the people. This is especially clear in the so-called developed world, where we see politicians promise one thing to get elected and then, once in office renege on the very things they promised. They never fall, however, to service their 'friends' on Wall St., or in The City, or of the Bourse. They get the lion’s share – of the people’s wealth!
Autonomy
If I understand what you are saying (there being little autonomous movements in the US), you mean movements which are ‘autonomous’ of political parties. If that understanding is correct, than I’m all for it. Political parties, in addition to being mechanisms to amass personal wealth, are machines to give people the illusion of democracy.
EZLN plans
I’m with that. In fact, that may the only thing that keeps social movements fresh from the snares of corruption that is so common in political life around the world. An older friend and I have been discussing this very thing for several years now (he too, is a student of the EZLN). I think it should be explored, tried out, and then utilized if it can be done.
African-Americans
The situation, to be quite honest, is quite dire. For millions of children in US ghettoes, in cities all across America, the drop-out rate is 50%. In some cities, like Baltimore, I’m told that the figure approaches 75%. And even for those that graduate, many of them are unable to enter college, because they’ve received a substandard education. That’s for children! While the official unemployment rate is about 7% nationally, In Black America it is nearer to 35% – and 60%+ for young people! In addition, young Blacks are subject to police violence that is overt, brutal and deadly – and rarely are they punished for such acts.
The Obama election has awakened and emboldened rightwing, racist forces, many of whom have found a home in the so-called ‘Tea Party’ movement. Politicians now speak openly in praise of the Civil War (1860-1865), on behalf of the South. Indeed, several days ago, the governor of Mississippi was set to honour one of the founders of the Ku Klux Klan with a license plate: Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, who was responsible for the torture and massacres of hundreds of Black Union soldiers at a piece called Fort Pillow.
The Black Panther Party
That movement has significant interest among the Black young, but few know historical details. That’s because they are told by teachers and media of the Civil Rights triumph that enabled the elections of Black politicians. The nationalist movement is at an ebb. What the movement accomplished was the separation of working class Blacks from bourgeois-oriented Blacks, and the resultant alienation of the well-to-do Blacks from their poorer, inner city cousins. This is reflected at almost every level of Black life in America. That explains how (and why) schools for millions of Black and Latin@ kids can be so poor, in so many communities.
Blacks & Indigenes
The differences are real, for we rarely share living space (most indigenous communities are in rural or Western areas; most Blacks live in urban areas). That said, there is certainly ideological interaction between the two, as the AIM was clearly influenced by the BPP, and the Black power movement. The struggles for independence and freedom reinforced and influenced each other.
Migrants
As capitalism reaches a crisis, it forces people to think less holistically, and more selfishly. This Impulse, stoked by fear (and spread by corporate media) reinforces the feeling of separation among people, and dissipates commonality, community and indeed, social cohesiveness. Unless activists can build that feeling of solidarity among peoples, these impulses will lead to real social and perhaps historical disasters.
The EZLN and the Black Panther Party
I think what unites both formations is (was) the insistence that people, from all walks of life, can play important roles in social movements of change. Many Black Nationalist movements of the ’60s were quite critical of the BPP for working with white people (it also worked with Chicanos, Puerto Ricans, Japanese, and Chinese activists). The Zapatista call has always been to the world: the entire world, of colour, of gender, of class, etc. I think that inclusive quality is, at base, its most humanistic, and that which appeals to the broad stretch of the human family. For it takes many to make revolution – and many to preserve it.
Contradictions between discourse and practice in the United States
Your reading of contradictions between the US as an avatar of human rights end being the Prison house of nations is perceptive. That contradiction is stark, and irrefutable. We have many things in America, but democracy certainly isn’t one of them. We have democratic forms; but no true democratic norms. When millions of Americans took to the streets in the Spring of 2002, demanding that the US not go to war, the ‘democracy’ ignored the people – and the result has been a social, humanitarian, ecological, archaeological and military disaster. George Bush called the millions in the streets a ‘pressure group’ – that he promptly ignored. How is it that the country that speaks so sweetly of freedom has more prisoners than any other nation in the world-and most of them are Black? The U.S. has about 5% of the world’s population – yet almost 25% of the world’s prisoners. So much for human rights.
Franz Fanon and Obama
African-Americans didn’t take power in the Obama election, although I can understand why some think they did. That’s because a certain kind of history was made. For the first time in U.S. history, a Black person was elected president (interesting, it comes almost a century and a ½ after a Black man became president of Mexico!). But, as Fanon taught in the African continental context, colonialism was succeeded by neo-colonialism. Blacks hold offices, but, the truth of the matter is, they hold little power. They are beholden to the same interests as white politicians are. Indeed, the sad fact is, Blacks may hold less power than before, for Black politicians are less able to address Black issues, for fear of being projected by the corporate media as ‘racist’ (recall the example of when Obama called the cop who harassed and arrested his friend and old college professor, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., ‘stupid’). The media went crazy. The incident proved also that the Black ‘elite’ (if a Harvard prof. isn’t elite, no one is), Prof. Gates was treated like a poor Black in the ghetto, arrested in his own home, humiliated, and jailed for daring to speak boldly to a white cop. The media rode Obama into silence.
About me
As the Mozambicans used to say, ‘a luta continua’: the struggle continues. We must build and widen, and deepen and strengthen our struggle, wherever it is, for, to quote Frederick Douglass, 'Without struggle there is no progress.' It may not be easy; but it is necessary.
Adios, mis amigos! Y gracias por todo!
Mumia
Links:
http://desinformemonos.org/2011/04/hace-falta-mucha-gente-para-hacer-una-revolucion%E2%80%A6-y-mucha-gente-para-sostenerla/
http://desinformemonos.org/2011/04/deseos-de-libertad-para-mumia-abu-jamal-en-su-cumpleanos-57/
Interview with Mumia
'It takes many to make revolution… and many to preserve it'
'About the idea of organizing outside of political parties and the political class —I’m with it. In fact, it may be the only thing that keeps social movements fresh and free from the snares of political corruption.'
Gloria Muñoz Ramírez
A year ago we began trying to arrange an interview with Mumia, one of the best known political prisoners in the world. We sent him letters and requests through all available contacts (including Amigos de Mumia of Mexico) who kindly offered to help get in touch with him on death row in the prison at Waynesburg, Pennsylvania, the state where he’s been imprisoned for 29 years. One fine day an envelope appeared beneath our door with the name of M. A. Jamal as the sender. This is the first interview the African-American activist and ex Black Panther has given to a Mexican news media.
In a two-page, typewritten letter, Mumia speaks of the need for social organization; of political parties as 'servants of capital'; of the relevance of autonomous movements and the proposals of the EZLN; of the African-American movement in the United States; of the teachings of Franz Fanon; and of the expectations aroused by Obama when he became President in a country where 'Blacks hold offices but have little power.'
The way Mumia sees it, 'the struggle continues.'
The interview with Mumia follows in the format of his choice:
Hola! I’ll try to address some of your concerns in this format. Here we go!
How to organize
There is no single, one way nor one event that sparks such things. Because people are complex, and, of course, conditions change. Organizing begins, according to the great C.L.R. James, when 2 people agree to work together. Mao said that ‘a single spark can start a prairie fire’, and that certainly seems to be the case when you look at Egypt and Tunisia of the past few weeks. But it’s also true that organizing has been talking place (especially in Egypt) for some time now, and it appears many people just reached a breaking point.
Political parties
Many, indeed, most political parties, especially in the metropolis, have become open servants of capital, and thus compete, not even pretending to represent the people, but in service to Weath. The French historian De Tocqueville famously said, 'Than politics the American citizen knows no higher profession – for it is the most lucrative.' He wrote this over 150 years ago! They are actually impediments to the needs and the interests of the people. This is especially clear in the so-called developed world, where we see politicians promise one thing to get elected and then, once in office renege on the very things they promised. They never fall, however, to service their 'friends' on Wall St., or in The City, or of the Bourse. They get the lion’s share – of the people’s wealth!
Autonomy
If I understand what you are saying (there being little autonomous movements in the US), you mean movements which are ‘autonomous’ of political parties. If that understanding is correct, than I’m all for it. Political parties, in addition to being mechanisms to amass personal wealth, are machines to give people the illusion of democracy.
EZLN plans
I’m with that. In fact, that may the only thing that keeps social movements fresh from the snares of corruption that is so common in political life around the world. An older friend and I have been discussing this very thing for several years now (he too, is a student of the EZLN). I think it should be explored, tried out, and then utilized if it can be done.
African-Americans
The situation, to be quite honest, is quite dire. For millions of children in US ghettoes, in cities all across America, the drop-out rate is 50%. In some cities, like Baltimore, I’m told that the figure approaches 75%. And even for those that graduate, many of them are unable to enter college, because they’ve received a substandard education. That’s for children! While the official unemployment rate is about 7% nationally, In Black America it is nearer to 35% – and 60%+ for young people! In addition, young Blacks are subject to police violence that is overt, brutal and deadly – and rarely are they punished for such acts.
The Obama election has awakened and emboldened rightwing, racist forces, many of whom have found a home in the so-called ‘Tea Party’ movement. Politicians now speak openly in praise of the Civil War (1860-1865), on behalf of the South. Indeed, several days ago, the governor of Mississippi was set to honour one of the founders of the Ku Klux Klan with a license plate: Gen. Nathan Bedford Forrest, who was responsible for the torture and massacres of hundreds of Black Union soldiers at a piece called Fort Pillow.
The Black Panther Party
That movement has significant interest among the Black young, but few know historical details. That’s because they are told by teachers and media of the Civil Rights triumph that enabled the elections of Black politicians. The nationalist movement is at an ebb. What the movement accomplished was the separation of working class Blacks from bourgeois-oriented Blacks, and the resultant alienation of the well-to-do Blacks from their poorer, inner city cousins. This is reflected at almost every level of Black life in America. That explains how (and why) schools for millions of Black and Latin@ kids can be so poor, in so many communities.
Blacks & Indigenes
The differences are real, for we rarely share living space (most indigenous communities are in rural or Western areas; most Blacks live in urban areas). That said, there is certainly ideological interaction between the two, as the AIM was clearly influenced by the BPP, and the Black power movement. The struggles for independence and freedom reinforced and influenced each other.
Migrants
As capitalism reaches a crisis, it forces people to think less holistically, and more selfishly. This Impulse, stoked by fear (and spread by corporate media) reinforces the feeling of separation among people, and dissipates commonality, community and indeed, social cohesiveness. Unless activists can build that feeling of solidarity among peoples, these impulses will lead to real social and perhaps historical disasters.
The EZLN and the Black Panther Party
I think what unites both formations is (was) the insistence that people, from all walks of life, can play important roles in social movements of change. Many Black Nationalist movements of the ’60s were quite critical of the BPP for working with white people (it also worked with Chicanos, Puerto Ricans, Japanese, and Chinese activists). The Zapatista call has always been to the world: the entire world, of colour, of gender, of class, etc. I think that inclusive quality is, at base, its most humanistic, and that which appeals to the broad stretch of the human family. For it takes many to make revolution – and many to preserve it.
Contradictions between discourse and practice in the United States
Your reading of contradictions between the US as an avatar of human rights end being the Prison house of nations is perceptive. That contradiction is stark, and irrefutable. We have many things in America, but democracy certainly isn’t one of them. We have democratic forms; but no true democratic norms. When millions of Americans took to the streets in the Spring of 2002, demanding that the US not go to war, the ‘democracy’ ignored the people – and the result has been a social, humanitarian, ecological, archaeological and military disaster. George Bush called the millions in the streets a ‘pressure group’ – that he promptly ignored. How is it that the country that speaks so sweetly of freedom has more prisoners than any other nation in the world-and most of them are Black? The U.S. has about 5% of the world’s population – yet almost 25% of the world’s prisoners. So much for human rights.
Franz Fanon and Obama
African-Americans didn’t take power in the Obama election, although I can understand why some think they did. That’s because a certain kind of history was made. For the first time in U.S. history, a Black person was elected president (interesting, it comes almost a century and a ½ after a Black man became president of Mexico!). But, as Fanon taught in the African continental context, colonialism was succeeded by neo-colonialism. Blacks hold offices, but, the truth of the matter is, they hold little power. They are beholden to the same interests as white politicians are. Indeed, the sad fact is, Blacks may hold less power than before, for Black politicians are less able to address Black issues, for fear of being projected by the corporate media as ‘racist’ (recall the example of when Obama called the cop who harassed and arrested his friend and old college professor, Henry Louis Gates, Jr., ‘stupid’). The media went crazy. The incident proved also that the Black ‘elite’ (if a Harvard prof. isn’t elite, no one is), Prof. Gates was treated like a poor Black in the ghetto, arrested in his own home, humiliated, and jailed for daring to speak boldly to a white cop. The media rode Obama into silence.
About me
As the Mozambicans used to say, ‘a luta continua’: the struggle continues. We must build and widen, and deepen and strengthen our struggle, wherever it is, for, to quote Frederick Douglass, 'Without struggle there is no progress.' It may not be easy; but it is necessary.
Adios, mis amigos! Y gracias por todo!
Mumia
Links:
http://desinformemonos.org/2011/04/hace-falta-mucha-gente-para-hacer-una-revolucion%E2%80%A6-y-mucha-gente-para-sostenerla/
http://desinformemonos.org/2011/04/deseos-de-libertad-para-mumia-abu-jamal-en-su-cumpleanos-57/
Monday, April 04, 2011
Celebrate Mumia's birthday in Philly this year!
Celebrate Mumia's April 24th birthday by organizing for his release!!!
Given that his birthday falls on Easter, we're holding an event the night before on Saturday April 23rd
Questioning Incarceration:
Saturday April 23
Doors open at 7:30 pm
at
Sanctuary Wholistic Arts
2737 Cambridge Street
Philadelphia, PA
(a donation will be collected to cover the costs of the space)
...............................................
Help us organize this event:
A coalition representing activists from Jericho, Human Rights Coaliiton, International Concerned Family and Friends of Mumia, and more will meet to plan an event on April 23 connecting advocacy and support of political prisoners and war resisters. Work with us to create a cultural event strategically pointing towards unity and release!
This event is also in honor of Mumia's April 24 birthday. If you can't join us, consider holding an event in Mumia's honor and share the details with ICFFMAJ@aol.com!
Planning meeting at
A Space, 4722 Baltimore Avenue
Thursday April 7
6-7 pm
Contact: maigamilbourne@yahoo.com
215 687 1147
Updates posted by our A Space friends at http://the-aspace.org/
Given that his birthday falls on Easter, we're holding an event the night before on Saturday April 23rd
Questioning Incarceration:
Saturday April 23
Doors open at 7:30 pm
at
Sanctuary Wholistic Arts
2737 Cambridge Street
Philadelphia, PA
(a donation will be collected to cover the costs of the space)
...............................................
Help us organize this event:
A coalition representing activists from Jericho, Human Rights Coaliiton, International Concerned Family and Friends of Mumia, and more will meet to plan an event on April 23 connecting advocacy and support of political prisoners and war resisters. Work with us to create a cultural event strategically pointing towards unity and release!
This event is also in honor of Mumia's April 24 birthday. If you can't join us, consider holding an event in Mumia's honor and share the details with ICFFMAJ@aol.com!
Planning meeting at
A Space, 4722 Baltimore Avenue
Thursday April 7
6-7 pm
Contact: maigamilbourne@yahoo.com
215 687 1147
Updates posted by our A Space friends at http://the-aspace.org/
Letter Writing to Mumia, "Black and Blue" Film Showing & Political Discussions
The PSP Black/New Afrikan History & Culture Class: Updates & Support For Our Exiles-PP/POWs Presents Its Monthly:
George L. Jackson - Mumia Abu Jamal:
Political Prisoner Harlem Letter Writing Dinner
Wednesday, April 6th In Harlem
6:00pm - 9:00pm
at
The Guillermo Morales- Assata Shakur Center at
City College Of New York
NAC - Building: Room 3-201
W.138th Street (Bet. Amsterdam & Convent Avenues)
Info. Contact- Bro. Shep: (212) 650-5008 or Panthershepcat@aol.com
Program Schedule
6:00pm-7:00pm:
Political Prisoner Film Screening & Discussion Of
"Black & Blue: The MOVE 9"
7:00pm-7:30pm:
A Collective Reading Of The Individual PP/POW Responses To Our Cards & Letters
7:30pm-9:00pm:
Sponsored By: The Peoples Survival Program (PSP) and The Guillermo Morales-Assata Shakur Community & Student Center @ CCNY
George L. Jackson - Mumia Abu Jamal:
Political Prisoner Harlem Letter Writing Dinner
Wednesday, April 6th In Harlem
6:00pm - 9:00pm
at
The Guillermo Morales- Assata Shakur Center at
City College Of New York
NAC - Building: Room 3-201
W.138th Street (Bet. Amsterdam & Convent Avenues)
Info. Contact- Bro. Shep: (212) 650-5008 or Panthershepcat@aol.com
Program Schedule
6:00pm-7:00pm:
Political Prisoner Film Screening & Discussion Of
"Black & Blue: The MOVE 9"
7:00pm-7:30pm:
A Collective Reading Of The Individual PP/POW Responses To Our Cards & Letters
7:30pm-9:00pm:
- Collective Letter writing to the "MOVE 9" political prisoners
- April & Belated March Birthday Card collective signings for US Captured PP/POWs
- PP/POW Updates & Event Announcements
- Traditional Southern, Caribbean, Afrikan "Pot Luck" Meal (Please bring a dish or beverage to share)
Sponsored By: The Peoples Survival Program (PSP) and The Guillermo Morales-Assata Shakur Community & Student Center @ CCNY
From our German comrades re the "Meet and Greet the Lawyers",
What a brilliant evening that was - congratulations.
Some of us stayed up til late at night to watch the event. Here is what they wrote in english for a german indymedia website:
An evening with Mumia's new legal team
(Harlem, NYC) Mumia Abu-Jamal's legal defense gained strength a couple of weeks ago, when the NAACP Legal Defense Fund (LDF) officially joined his defense. Although lawyers of the LDF have been members of the team for several years already they now take on the leading role in the legal struggle to free Mumia Abu-Jamal. On April 3 the newly formed defense team presented themselves to an audience of 150 in Riverside Church in New York.
The LDF looks back on a long history of successful legal litigations in the civil rights campaign in the US. The new legal team for Mumia involves Johanna Steinberg, Vincent Southerland, Judith Ritter and Christina Swarns. They are accompanied by two speakers who will speak publically for them in the future, too.
The event took off with speeches by activists of the US Free Mumia movement. Greetings went out to many people who sometimes had traveled far to join the event.
Attorney Judith Ritter spoke on Mumia Abu-Jamal's long case history and pointing out the renewed danger of the death penalty against him.
Mumia himself called from death row and answering questions from the audience. Listeners were very enthusiatic about being able to direct contact with Mumia and he seemed clearly moved himself.
Attorney Christina Swarns gave an historic overview on racism in society and the justice system up until today in connection to the way, Mumia has been treated by the system.
She started by explaining the historic roots of legal executions. The death penalty in the US is a direct descendant of slavery and the following practice of lynching, especially in the south of the country. This became notorious in the era of "reconstruction". As the criticism of these racist murders increased, the death penalty then "legally" replaced mob lynchings. Looking at the numbers of executions in the US today it is obvious, that they mostly take place in the former strongholds of lynching.
The purpose of the death penalty is the same as the klan lynchings of the past: to keep millions of African Americans in their place and force them to accept segregtion and expolitation. It is a method of social control which clearly demonstrates, that it is predominantly race, that dictates in court who is going to live and who is going to die. Christina Swarns: "The death penalty is a weapon of social control".
Another aspect is the different treatment of black and white murder victims. While half or all murder victims in the country are black, the offenders are not executed very often. If there is a white murder victim, executions take place very often, though.
Swarns went on to describe legal procedures and the endemic manipulations of juries all around the country, describing how African Americans are regulary manoeuvered out of juries by deliberate tactics on the part of district Attourneys. But judges and federal courts also systematically legalize such practices, as every one can see in the case of Mumia Abu-Jamal.
The media also played an important part in racist legal procedures. Prior to the Abu-Jamal trial in 1982 Philadelphia's media covered extensively Mumia's previous affiliations with the Black Panther Party and with the Association of Black Journalists, mentioning his sympathetic coverage of MOVE or commenting on his dread lock hair style. They made sure that race played a role in this case from the outset and diverted public observation away from the facts of what actually happened on December 9, 1981.
Christina Swarns concluded, that Mumia's case is one the most important ones in the fight against the death penalty in the US today. Thus, the LDF is committed in saving him from execution and winning his freedom.
Afterwards $1500 in donations were collected for the legal defense team of Mumia.
Appr. 150 people joined the event in the Harlem Riverside Church in NYC. You can watch the recording of the live stream on http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/13759567# The event then starts from 1:02.25
The event was organized by the New York Free Mumia coalition together with Mumia's legal defense.
http://de.indymedia.org/2011/04/304029.shtml
Some of us stayed up til late at night to watch the event. Here is what they wrote in english for a german indymedia website:
An evening with Mumia's new legal team
(Harlem, NYC) Mumia Abu-Jamal's legal defense gained strength a couple of weeks ago, when the NAACP Legal Defense Fund (LDF) officially joined his defense. Although lawyers of the LDF have been members of the team for several years already they now take on the leading role in the legal struggle to free Mumia Abu-Jamal. On April 3 the newly formed defense team presented themselves to an audience of 150 in Riverside Church in New York.
The LDF looks back on a long history of successful legal litigations in the civil rights campaign in the US. The new legal team for Mumia involves Johanna Steinberg, Vincent Southerland, Judith Ritter and Christina Swarns. They are accompanied by two speakers who will speak publically for them in the future, too.
The event took off with speeches by activists of the US Free Mumia movement. Greetings went out to many people who sometimes had traveled far to join the event.
Attorney Judith Ritter spoke on Mumia Abu-Jamal's long case history and pointing out the renewed danger of the death penalty against him.
Mumia himself called from death row and answering questions from the audience. Listeners were very enthusiatic about being able to direct contact with Mumia and he seemed clearly moved himself.
Attorney Christina Swarns gave an historic overview on racism in society and the justice system up until today in connection to the way, Mumia has been treated by the system.
She started by explaining the historic roots of legal executions. The death penalty in the US is a direct descendant of slavery and the following practice of lynching, especially in the south of the country. This became notorious in the era of "reconstruction". As the criticism of these racist murders increased, the death penalty then "legally" replaced mob lynchings. Looking at the numbers of executions in the US today it is obvious, that they mostly take place in the former strongholds of lynching.
The purpose of the death penalty is the same as the klan lynchings of the past: to keep millions of African Americans in their place and force them to accept segregtion and expolitation. It is a method of social control which clearly demonstrates, that it is predominantly race, that dictates in court who is going to live and who is going to die. Christina Swarns: "The death penalty is a weapon of social control".
Another aspect is the different treatment of black and white murder victims. While half or all murder victims in the country are black, the offenders are not executed very often. If there is a white murder victim, executions take place very often, though.
Swarns went on to describe legal procedures and the endemic manipulations of juries all around the country, describing how African Americans are regulary manoeuvered out of juries by deliberate tactics on the part of district Attourneys. But judges and federal courts also systematically legalize such practices, as every one can see in the case of Mumia Abu-Jamal.
The media also played an important part in racist legal procedures. Prior to the Abu-Jamal trial in 1982 Philadelphia's media covered extensively Mumia's previous affiliations with the Black Panther Party and with the Association of Black Journalists, mentioning his sympathetic coverage of MOVE or commenting on his dread lock hair style. They made sure that race played a role in this case from the outset and diverted public observation away from the facts of what actually happened on December 9, 1981.
Christina Swarns concluded, that Mumia's case is one the most important ones in the fight against the death penalty in the US today. Thus, the LDF is committed in saving him from execution and winning his freedom.
Afterwards $1500 in donations were collected for the legal defense team of Mumia.
Appr. 150 people joined the event in the Harlem Riverside Church in NYC. You can watch the recording of the live stream on http://www.ustream.tv/recorded/13759567# The event then starts from 1:02.25
The event was organized by the New York Free Mumia coalition together with Mumia's legal defense.
http://de.indymedia.org/2011/04/304029.shtml
Sunday, April 03, 2011
SUNDAY 4/3: LIVE VIDEO STREAM:: Meet Mumia Abu Jamal's New Legal Team
This event will be streaming live on the web for those who cannot make it. It can be watched all over the world!
Just go to the following URL at 4pm Eastern Time on Sunday, April 3rd. If you don't see us precisely at 4pm, please be patient. We might not actually get started until shortly after that time.
https://www.ustream.tv/channel/on-a-move.mumia
INTERNATIONAL CONCERNED FAMILY & FRIENDS OF MUMIA ABU-JAMAL
and
FREE MUMIA ABU-JAMAL COALITION (NYC)
In conjunction with THE RIVERSIDE CHURCH PRISON MINISTRY
CORDIALLY INVITE YOU TO
MEET AND HEAR FROM MUMIA'S NEW LEGAL TEAM
Christina Swarns, Esq.,
Director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund LDF) Criminal Justice Project
Judith Ritter, Esq.,
Professor, Widener Law School in Wilmington, Delaware
SUNDAY, APRIL 3
4:00 – 7:00 P.M.
RIVERSIDE CHURCH ROOM 9T
Private reception
$10 advance purchase of tickets required
Call 212 330-8029 to order tickets
5:30–7:00 pm
Presentations by attorneys
FREE ADMISSION
It is with great excitement that we announce the formation of Mumia's new legal team. Both Christina Swarns and Judith Ritter have argued before the Third Circuit Court of Appeals for Mumia. They are now formal co-counsel representing him in the ongoing appeal of his murder conviction and death sentence. The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF), as the premier legal organization in this country fighting for racial justice, has committed itself to "sweep the grave injustices embodied in this case into the dustbin of history."
Just go to the following URL at 4pm Eastern Time on Sunday, April 3rd. If you don't see us precisely at 4pm, please be patient. We might not actually get started until shortly after that time.
https://www.ustream.tv/channel/on-a-move.mumia
INTERNATIONAL CONCERNED FAMILY & FRIENDS OF MUMIA ABU-JAMAL
and
FREE MUMIA ABU-JAMAL COALITION (NYC)
In conjunction with THE RIVERSIDE CHURCH PRISON MINISTRY
CORDIALLY INVITE YOU TO
MEET AND HEAR FROM MUMIA'S NEW LEGAL TEAM
Christina Swarns, Esq.,
Director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund LDF) Criminal Justice Project
Judith Ritter, Esq.,
Professor, Widener Law School in Wilmington, Delaware
SUNDAY, APRIL 3
4:00 – 7:00 P.M.
RIVERSIDE CHURCH ROOM 9T
Private reception
$10 advance purchase of tickets required
Call 212 330-8029 to order tickets
5:30–7:00 pm
Presentations by attorneys
FREE ADMISSION
It is with great excitement that we announce the formation of Mumia's new legal team. Both Christina Swarns and Judith Ritter have argued before the Third Circuit Court of Appeals for Mumia. They are now formal co-counsel representing him in the ongoing appeal of his murder conviction and death sentence. The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF), as the premier legal organization in this country fighting for racial justice, has committed itself to "sweep the grave injustices embodied in this case into the dustbin of history."
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
MEET AND HEAR FROM MUMIA’S NEW LEGAL TEAM: April 3 in NYC
INTERNATIONAL CONCERNED FAMILY & FRIENDS OF MUMIA ABU-JAMAL
FREE MUMIA ABU-JAMAL COALITION (NYC)
In conjunction with
THE RIVERSIDE CHURCH PRISON MINISTRY
CORDIALLY INVITE YOU TO MEET AND HEAR FROM MUMIA'S NEW LEGAL TEAM
Christina Swarns, Esq., Director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF) Criminal Justice Project
Judith Ritter, Esq., Professor, Widener Law School in Wilmington, Delaware
SUNDAY, APRIL 3, 4 – 7 pm
THE RIVERSIDE CHURCH ROOM 9T
4:00 – 5:00 P.M.
Private reception
$10 advance purchase of tickets required
Call 212 330-8029 to order tickets
5:30 – 7:00 pm Presentations by attorneys
FREE ADMISSION
It is with great excitement that we announce the formation of Mumia's new legal team. Both Christina Swarns and Judith Ritter have argued before the Third Circuit Court of Appeals for Mumia. They are now formal co-counsel representing him in the ongoing appeal of his murder conviction and death sentence. The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF), as the premier legal organization in this country fighting for racial justice, has committed itself to "sweep the grave injustices embodied in this case into the dustbin of history."
Limited space is available for reception. We suggest you order your tickets now.
FREE MUMIA ABU-JAMAL COALITION (NYC)
In conjunction with
THE RIVERSIDE CHURCH PRISON MINISTRY
CORDIALLY INVITE YOU TO MEET AND HEAR FROM MUMIA'S NEW LEGAL TEAM
Christina Swarns, Esq., Director of the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF) Criminal Justice Project
Judith Ritter, Esq., Professor, Widener Law School in Wilmington, Delaware
SUNDAY, APRIL 3, 4 – 7 pm
THE RIVERSIDE CHURCH ROOM 9T
4:00 – 5:00 P.M.
Private reception
$10 advance purchase of tickets required
Call 212 330-8029 to order tickets
5:30 – 7:00 pm Presentations by attorneys
FREE ADMISSION
It is with great excitement that we announce the formation of Mumia's new legal team. Both Christina Swarns and Judith Ritter have argued before the Third Circuit Court of Appeals for Mumia. They are now formal co-counsel representing him in the ongoing appeal of his murder conviction and death sentence. The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF), as the premier legal organization in this country fighting for racial justice, has committed itself to "sweep the grave injustices embodied in this case into the dustbin of history."
Limited space is available for reception. We suggest you order your tickets now.
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
NYC :: The Great Debate: Thurs, Feb 24 @ 7 pm
NY Coalition to Free Mumia
Thursday, February 24 @ 7 pm
at the
Solidarity Center
55 W. 17th Street - 5th Floor, New York, NY
Johanna Fernandez, Professor, Baruch College in NY and filmmaker of Justice on Trial": The Case of Mumia Abu-Jamal
and
Michael Coard, Esq, Philadelphia attorney and host of a radio show on WURD in Philadelphia.
vs
Tigre Hill, filmmaker of Barrel of the Gun, a hit piece on Mumia Abu-Jamal supported by the Philadelphia Fraternal Order of Police
and
Seth Williams, first Black District Attorney in Philadelphia history, who campaigned to support Mumia's execution
Refreshments served.
Plus, exclusive video test showing missing evidence and fake testimony by the prosecution!!
For more information call 212.330.8029.
www.freemumia.com
Monday, February 07, 2011
LDF Joins Mumia Abu-Jamal Defense Team
http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ldf-joins-mumia-abu-jamal-defense-team-115514004.html
NEW YORK, Feb. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On January 28, 2011, Mumia Abu-Jamal retained the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. (LDF) to represent him in the ongoing appeal of his capital murder conviction and death sentence. LDF will serve as co-counsel in the case with Judy Ritter, Esq., of Widener Law School in Wilmington, Delaware, who has represented Mr. Abu-Jamal since 2003.
Mr. Abu-Jamal is the world's best known death-row prisoner. His case has attracted attention from around the world and he is widely viewed as a symbol of the racial injustices of the death penalty.
"Mumia Abu-Jamal's conviction and death sentence are relics of a time and place that was notorious for police abuse and racial discrimination," said John Payton, Director-Counsel of LDF. "Unless and until courts acknowledge and correct these historic injustices, death sentences like Mr. Abu-Jamal's will invite continued skepticism of the criminal justice system by the African American community."
Mr. Abu-Jamal is on death row in Pennsylvania for the 1981 murder of a police officer in Philadelphia. His death sentence was vacated in 2001 after the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania found constitutional error in the jury instructions and verdict form used in his 1982 penalty phase. That decision was affirmed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in 2008 but then sent back to the Third Circuit by the United States Supreme Court in 2010 for further review.
Christina Swarns, Director of LDF's Criminal Justice Project explained that, "LDF seeks to sweep the grave injustices embodied in this case into the dustbin of history and, in so doing, give communities of color reason to believe that they can and will receive equal justice in Pennsylvania courtrooms."
Mr. Abu-Jamal's appeal is currently pending before the Third Circuit.
The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. is America's premier legal organization fighting for racial justice. Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, LDF seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans. LDF also defends the gains and protections won over the past 70 years of civil rights struggle and works to improve the quality and diversity of judicial and executive appointments.
CONTACT: Mel Gagarin, LDF, 212-965-2783
SOURCE NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.
http://www.naacpldf.org
NEW YORK, Feb. 7, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- On January 28, 2011, Mumia Abu-Jamal retained the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. (LDF) to represent him in the ongoing appeal of his capital murder conviction and death sentence. LDF will serve as co-counsel in the case with Judy Ritter, Esq., of Widener Law School in Wilmington, Delaware, who has represented Mr. Abu-Jamal since 2003.
Mr. Abu-Jamal is the world's best known death-row prisoner. His case has attracted attention from around the world and he is widely viewed as a symbol of the racial injustices of the death penalty.
"Mumia Abu-Jamal's conviction and death sentence are relics of a time and place that was notorious for police abuse and racial discrimination," said John Payton, Director-Counsel of LDF. "Unless and until courts acknowledge and correct these historic injustices, death sentences like Mr. Abu-Jamal's will invite continued skepticism of the criminal justice system by the African American community."
Mr. Abu-Jamal is on death row in Pennsylvania for the 1981 murder of a police officer in Philadelphia. His death sentence was vacated in 2001 after the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania found constitutional error in the jury instructions and verdict form used in his 1982 penalty phase. That decision was affirmed by the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit in 2008 but then sent back to the Third Circuit by the United States Supreme Court in 2010 for further review.
Christina Swarns, Director of LDF's Criminal Justice Project explained that, "LDF seeks to sweep the grave injustices embodied in this case into the dustbin of history and, in so doing, give communities of color reason to believe that they can and will receive equal justice in Pennsylvania courtrooms."
Mr. Abu-Jamal's appeal is currently pending before the Third Circuit.
The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. is America's premier legal organization fighting for racial justice. Through litigation, advocacy, and public education, LDF seeks structural changes to expand democracy, eliminate disparities, and achieve racial justice in a society that fulfills the promise of equality for all Americans. LDF also defends the gains and protections won over the past 70 years of civil rights struggle and works to improve the quality and diversity of judicial and executive appointments.
CONTACT: Mel Gagarin, LDF, 212-965-2783
SOURCE NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc.
http://www.naacpldf.org
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
STATEMENT FROM MUMIA ON CHANGE IN LEGAL DEFENSE
From Free Mumia Abu-Jamal Coalition:
Robert Bryan no longer represents Mumia and does not speak for him in court or out. The statement by him at the Rosa Luxemburg Conference (erroneously sent out) does not represent what Mumia or ICFFMAJ or FMAJC thinks about what transpired between Bryan and Mumia or Bryan and the Movement.
Text of Mumia's letter:
11/23/10 07:45 pm EST
Dear Bros, Sistas & Friends,
Ona Move!
As you may know, there has been a change in my representation; but what you may NOT know is that the team that remains has been involved for years -- and you've read their work if you've read the briefs.
So, relax -- they are experienced, intelligent and well-motivated lawyers, who know what they are doing. *
Guess what? In real life, change happens - and this is real life.
I thank y'all for respecting my decision in this matter.
Sometimes, change isn't just good: it's necessary.
Thanx,
Your brother,
Mumia
(*Some of you may wish to access the audiofile of the oral arguments had in this case earlier this month, and several years ago; you decide) MAJ
Robert Bryan no longer represents Mumia and does not speak for him in court or out. The statement by him at the Rosa Luxemburg Conference (erroneously sent out) does not represent what Mumia or ICFFMAJ or FMAJC thinks about what transpired between Bryan and Mumia or Bryan and the Movement.
Text of Mumia's letter:
11/23/10 07:45 pm EST
Dear Bros, Sistas & Friends,
Ona Move!
As you may know, there has been a change in my representation; but what you may NOT know is that the team that remains has been involved for years -- and you've read their work if you've read the briefs.
So, relax -- they are experienced, intelligent and well-motivated lawyers, who know what they are doing. *
Guess what? In real life, change happens - and this is real life.
I thank y'all for respecting my decision in this matter.
Sometimes, change isn't just good: it's necessary.
Thanx,
Your brother,
Mumia
(*Some of you may wish to access the audiofile of the oral arguments had in this case earlier this month, and several years ago; you decide) MAJ
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Pam Africa at 1/19 Philly MOVE Doc Screening
From ICFFMAJ:
Philadelphia's War on MOVE is a War on the Black Community!
International People's Democratic Uhuru Movement invites the community out to the film screening of MOVE: A Documentary with Post-Discussion from Pam Africa, minister of confrontation of the MOVE organization and chairwoman of the International Concern Family and Friends of Mumia Abu Jamal
MOVE: A Documentary goes behind the 1978 and 1985 attack on the Philadelphia revolutionary organization MOVE and the repression they suffered from the racist and brutal policies of the Philadelphia police department and the US justice system.
January 19th, 2010 - 6:00 pm
at
Uhuru Solidarity Center
3733 Lancaster Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19104
$3-$5 suggested donation
For more information contact Iresha.Picot@gmail.com
Philadelphia's War on MOVE is a War on the Black Community!
International People's Democratic Uhuru Movement invites the community out to the film screening of MOVE: A Documentary with Post-Discussion from Pam Africa, minister of confrontation of the MOVE organization and chairwoman of the International Concern Family and Friends of Mumia Abu Jamal
MOVE: A Documentary goes behind the 1978 and 1985 attack on the Philadelphia revolutionary organization MOVE and the repression they suffered from the racist and brutal policies of the Philadelphia police department and the US justice system.
January 19th, 2010 - 6:00 pm
at
Uhuru Solidarity Center
3733 Lancaster Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19104
$3-$5 suggested donation
For more information contact Iresha.Picot@gmail.com
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Report-back and video from Berlin Free Mumia Demo
From Mumia NYC
Dear all,
a first impression of the Berlin FREE MUMIA demonstration yesterday:
The weather was extremely cold and wet. Even though, 200 people took to the streets. The spirit was really upbeat.
The march was loud and extremely self confident. 1000s of flyers about Mumia and the 29 years he has been spending on death row were distributed along the way to the US Embassy. Many onlookers expressed their consent, especially against the death penalty. Some people joined spontaniously.
Police tried their best to block us from adressing the Embassy and prepared a cage with police busses which would have blocked us off visually from the embassy. But people were not falling for that and occupied the traffic island in the middle of the square. Eventually police had to accept that. Speeches were deliverd in support of Mumia, Leonard Peltier and the Cuban 5.
Solidarity messages from Pam Africa and comrades from London were read out.
There were loud chants against the death penalty and the prison slavery exercised in the prison industrial complex.
At the end an Open Letter to the US Ambassador Philip D. Murphy was read out which is attached. Murphy has been scandalized by the German media because he secretely characterized leading german politicians as stupid and incompetent (which is about the only point we do agree with Mr. Murphy). His letters to Washington were pubished by Wikileaks a couple of days ago and caused an outcry within the german ruling class.
During the whole event no arrests were made by the otherwise notoriously brutal Berlin police force. Finally participants went home knowing that we will carry on fighting until Mumia and all other political prisoners are free.
In solidarity,
--
Berliner Bündnis Freiheit für Mumia Abu-Jamal!
im HdD
Greifswalderstr.4
10405 Berlin
http://mumia-hoerbuch.de
Social networks des Berliner Free Mumia Bündnis:
http://myspace.com/FreiheitfrMumia
http://twitter.com/Free_Mumia
http://de-de.facebook.com/people/Anton-Mestin/100001505521584
GMX DSL Doppel-Flat ab 19,99 €/mtl.! Jetzt auch mit
gratis Notebook-Flat! http://portal.gmx.net/de/go/dsl
Dear all,
a first impression of the Berlin FREE MUMIA demonstration yesterday:
The weather was extremely cold and wet. Even though, 200 people took to the streets. The spirit was really upbeat.
The march was loud and extremely self confident. 1000s of flyers about Mumia and the 29 years he has been spending on death row were distributed along the way to the US Embassy. Many onlookers expressed their consent, especially against the death penalty. Some people joined spontaniously.
Police tried their best to block us from adressing the Embassy and prepared a cage with police busses which would have blocked us off visually from the embassy. But people were not falling for that and occupied the traffic island in the middle of the square. Eventually police had to accept that. Speeches were deliverd in support of Mumia, Leonard Peltier and the Cuban 5.
Solidarity messages from Pam Africa and comrades from London were read out.
There were loud chants against the death penalty and the prison slavery exercised in the prison industrial complex.
At the end an Open Letter to the US Ambassador Philip D. Murphy was read out which is attached. Murphy has been scandalized by the German media because he secretely characterized leading german politicians as stupid and incompetent (which is about the only point we do agree with Mr. Murphy). His letters to Washington were pubished by Wikileaks a couple of days ago and caused an outcry within the german ruling class.
During the whole event no arrests were made by the otherwise notoriously brutal Berlin police force. Finally participants went home knowing that we will carry on fighting until Mumia and all other political prisoners are free.
In solidarity,
--
Berliner Bündnis Freiheit für Mumia Abu-Jamal!
im HdD
Greifswalderstr.4
10405 Berlin
http://mumia-hoerbuch.de
Social networks des Berliner Free Mumia Bündnis:
http://myspace.com/FreiheitfrMumia
http://twitter.com/Free_Mumia
http://de-de.facebook.com/people/Anton-Mestin/100001505521584
GMX DSL Doppel-Flat ab 19,99 €/mtl.! Jetzt auch mit
gratis Notebook-Flat! http://portal.gmx.net/de/go/dsl
Thursday, December 09, 2010
12/11 Black Germany and Brazil for Mumia!
Berlin, Germany
From Black Nation Germany (blacknation.germany@googlemail.com):
Demonstration in Berlin:
Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 14:00
Manifestation à Berlin: Samedi, 11 Décembre 2010, à 14:00h
Hotep, Nubian Sisters, Kemetic Brothers
WE WILL RALLY AT THE HEINRICHPLATZ IN KREUZBERG AND
MARCH TO THE UNITED SNAKES EMBASSY, AT THE PARISER PLATZ
Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 14:00, in Berlin
NB: This demonstration is also an act of solidarity with and support to Leonard PELTIER, THE CUBAN FIVE and ALL THE OTHER POLITICAL PRISONERS who, like Brother Mumia, are held hostage in US Jails by the Babylon System.
If you live in or near Hamburg and you would like to join a group, please contact Brother Senfo for the travel arrangement: blacknation.senfotonkam@googlemail.com; phone: 0176-27795192,
FREE MUMIA ABU-JAMAL IMMEDIATELY!
Please, visit these sites to learn more about the actions planned in your area, the USA and all over the world:
www.freemumia.com & www.Abu-Jamal-News.com
May the Ancestors continue to protect and bless Mumia, the MOVE 9, and All Our Other Political Prisoners.
Sao Paolo, Brazil
É nesta sexta-feira a manifestação em prol de Mumia Abu-Jamal em São Paulo
Faltam poucos dias para a manifestação em prol de Mumia Abu-Jamal, que ocorrerá nesta sexta-feira, 10, em frente ao consulado dos Estados Unidos de São Paulo, que fica na Rua Henri Dunant, 500, Santo Amaro.
Vídeos no Ay Carmela!
No sábado, 11, rola o vídeo “In Prison My Whole Life” (Na Prisão Minha Vida Toda), a partir das 16 horas. E no domingo, 12, o vídeo “MOVE”, também a partir das 16 horas.
O espaço Ay Carmela! fica na rua dos Carmelitas, 140 – Metrô Sé – São Paulo.
Mais infos: www.anarcopunk.org/mumialivre
Contato: mumialivreja@riseup.net
Se possível, passe adiante este comunicado.
“Eles não querem a minha morte. Eles querem o meu silêncio”
-- Mumia Abu-Jamal
“Necessitamos a Mumia desesperadamente. Nos tempos que correm não podemos permitir que nos arrebatem uma voz como a sua sem lutar até o último alento”
-- Ossie Davis
From Black Nation Germany (blacknation.germany@googlemail.com):
Demonstration in Berlin:
Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 14:00
Manifestation à Berlin: Samedi, 11 Décembre 2010, à 14:00h
Hotep, Nubian Sisters, Kemetic Brothers
WE WILL RALLY AT THE HEINRICHPLATZ IN KREUZBERG AND
MARCH TO THE UNITED SNAKES EMBASSY, AT THE PARISER PLATZ
Saturday, December 11, 2010 at 14:00, in Berlin
NB: This demonstration is also an act of solidarity with and support to Leonard PELTIER, THE CUBAN FIVE and ALL THE OTHER POLITICAL PRISONERS who, like Brother Mumia, are held hostage in US Jails by the Babylon System.
If you live in or near Hamburg and you would like to join a group, please contact Brother Senfo for the travel arrangement: blacknation.senfotonkam@googlemail.com; phone: 0176-27795192,
FREE MUMIA ABU-JAMAL IMMEDIATELY!
Please, visit these sites to learn more about the actions planned in your area, the USA and all over the world:
www.freemumia.com & www.Abu-Jamal-News.com
May the Ancestors continue to protect and bless Mumia, the MOVE 9, and All Our Other Political Prisoners.
Sao Paolo, Brazil
É nesta sexta-feira a manifestação em prol de Mumia Abu-Jamal em São Paulo
Faltam poucos dias para a manifestação em prol de Mumia Abu-Jamal, que ocorrerá nesta sexta-feira, 10, em frente ao consulado dos Estados Unidos de São Paulo, que fica na Rua Henri Dunant, 500, Santo Amaro.
Vídeos no Ay Carmela!
No sábado, 11, rola o vídeo “In Prison My Whole Life” (Na Prisão Minha Vida Toda), a partir das 16 horas. E no domingo, 12, o vídeo “MOVE”, também a partir das 16 horas.
O espaço Ay Carmela! fica na rua dos Carmelitas, 140 – Metrô Sé – São Paulo.
Mais infos: www.anarcopunk.org/mumialivre
Contato: mumialivreja@riseup.net
Se possível, passe adiante este comunicado.
“Eles não querem a minha morte. Eles querem o meu silêncio”
-- Mumia Abu-Jamal
“Necessitamos a Mumia desesperadamente. Nos tempos que correm não podemos permitir que nos arrebatem uma voz como a sua sem lutar até o último alento”
-- Ossie Davis
12/16 Operation Small Axe and Justice on Trial for Mumia!
Block Report Radio Double Header Against Police and Gov't Violence
Thursday, December 16 · 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Solidarity Center
55 W.17th Street - 5th Floor
Manhattan, NY
Featuring a screening of the award winning documentary Operation Small Axe, which looks at police terrorism in Oakland surrounding Oscar Grant
and
a screening of Justice on Trial, the new Mumia documentary
also featuring film-makers Minister of Info JR of Operation Small Axe of blockreportradio.com and Johanna Fernandez, the director of Justice on Trial
Thursday, December 16 · 6:30pm - 9:30pm
Solidarity Center
55 W.17th Street - 5th Floor
Manhattan, NY
Featuring a screening of the award winning documentary Operation Small Axe, which looks at police terrorism in Oakland surrounding Oscar Grant
and
a screening of Justice on Trial, the new Mumia documentary
also featuring film-makers Minister of Info JR of Operation Small Axe of blockreportradio.com and Johanna Fernandez, the director of Justice on Trial
Tuesday, December 07, 2010
Film Showing Wed December 8 at City College, NYC
The Prisoner Justice Club at City College, in affiliation with the Campaign to End the death Penalty, is proud to present:
"Justice on Trial"
A Documentary on Mumia Abu-Jamal by Johanna Fernandez and Kouross Esmaeli.
December 8th, 2010
7:00 PM
The City College of New York; NAC Building, 1st floor; Room 1/202
Special guest Speaker: Producer Johanna Fernandez
Tried and convicted of the murder of police officer Daniel Faulkner, Mumia Abu-Jamal is the most recognized death row inmate in the world today.
His case is one of the most contested cases in modern American history, and one of the most important civil rights cases of our time.
Judicial Bias. Prosecutorial misconduct. Racial discrimination in jury selection. Police corruption. Tampering with evidence to obtain a conviction.
These are characteristics that affect the ENTIRE criminal justice system. Learn how these flaws have affected Mumia FOR THREE DECADES. New evidence is revealed in the documentary that the courts refuse to review. Learn why this is one of the most important cases of our generation!!
Co-sponsored by The City College Political Science Department, The Black Student Union, The African Student Union, and the International Socialist Organization.
"Justice on Trial"
A Documentary on Mumia Abu-Jamal by Johanna Fernandez and Kouross Esmaeli.
December 8th, 2010
7:00 PM
The City College of New York; NAC Building, 1st floor; Room 1/202
Special guest Speaker: Producer Johanna Fernandez
Tried and convicted of the murder of police officer Daniel Faulkner, Mumia Abu-Jamal is the most recognized death row inmate in the world today.
His case is one of the most contested cases in modern American history, and one of the most important civil rights cases of our time.
Judicial Bias. Prosecutorial misconduct. Racial discrimination in jury selection. Police corruption. Tampering with evidence to obtain a conviction.
These are characteristics that affect the ENTIRE criminal justice system. Learn how these flaws have affected Mumia FOR THREE DECADES. New evidence is revealed in the documentary that the courts refuse to review. Learn why this is one of the most important cases of our generation!!
Co-sponsored by The City College Political Science Department, The Black Student Union, The African Student Union, and the International Socialist Organization.
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