More apocalypse, less angst
I wanted to remind everyone that August 10th is Prisoners’ Justice Day – an internationally-observed day started some decades ago by the tireless Canadian prison-abolitionist Claire Culhane. Prisoners’ Justice Day is the day prisoners have set aside as a day to fast and refuse to work in a show of solidarity with those who have died unnecessarily — victims of murder, suicide and neglect inside the cruel fortresses of power that masquerade as centres for “rehabilitation”.
Prisoners’ Justice Day is not just an observance for political prisoners, but for all men and women caught within the walls of class, race and gender – for all of those who have ended their journey inside a cage – a day when we in the community hold demonstrations, vigils, spiritual services and other events in solidarity with those who are trapped inside.
I would encourage people to take part in any Prisoners’ Justice Day events in your community, and additionally take some time to:
These all seem like such small and almost-insignificant things – but not only do they let our prisoner-friends and family know that we are out here for them – each action helps to break down the shame and stigma of prison forced onto all of us who have loved ones on the inside. We are not ashamed of those we know in prison, but we should be ashamed to live in a society which can not come up with more creative and humane options in dealing with our issues.
A better world is possible,
M.
Recent comments