What would you do if someone you cared about was sentenced to 20 years in prison? I don’t mean this as an empty rhetorical question. Stop and think for a second. How would you stand by them? Both personally and politically, what would “solidarity” mean? What would you do to show them they are never alone?
Unfortunately the environmental movement has had to grapple with what should be incomprehensible questions, first as Jeff “Free” Luers was sentenced to 22 years in prison, and then later when Eric McDavid was sentenced to nearly 20 years, and Maris Mason was sentenced to nearly 22 years.
June 11th became an international day of solidarity with long-term political prisoners. Last year there were events in 30 cities around the world, including film screenings, lectures, banner drops, and benefit dinners.
The Earth First Journal has some information on planning. And June11.org has sample posters, fliers, and other information.
At the very least, please take this opportunity to write Marie Mason, Eric McDavid, and other eco and animal rights prisoners a letter (there’s a list in the sidebar).
And now would also be a great time to donate to the Rosenberg Fund for Children, which provides crucial support to the children of political prisoners.