By John Caher
New York Law Journal
October 6, 2006
ALBANY - In a rare display of judicial power over the state parole board, Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Marcy S. Friedman has told the Division of Parole to release a convicted killer unless it can come up with a valid reason - other than the crimes he committed nearly 40 years ago -for keeping him behind bars.
William R. Phillips, a 76-year-old, half blind, diabetic cancer victim and stroke survivor who the parole board has described as a "model prisoner" posing no threat to society, has been denied parole four times.
Justice Friedman's ruling yesterday marks the second time a court has criticized the denial of parole for Mr. Phillips as irrational and improper, but the first where a judge has all but ordered his release.
When reviewing a determination of the parole board, the judiciary's sole remedy is to afford the petitioner a new hearing. Justice Friedman did just that in Phillips v. Dennison, 103509/06. But she went one step further and restrained the board from considering anything other than Mr. Phillips' behavior since his last parole denial. His prison record at least through 2005 is unblemished.
The decision will be published Thursday.
"[W]here the Parole Board abdicates its responsibility to follow the statute, as here, the court may properly intervene," Justice Friedman wrote.
Mr. Phillips is a former New York City police officer who killed a 19-year-old prostitute and her pimp in 1968 and tried to kill another person. It was several years later, after he was caught shaking down Xaviera Hollander, the legendary madam of a 51st Street brothel and author of "The Happy Hooker," that he was arrested for the murders and attempted murder.
After his arrest for the Hollander incident, Mr. Phillips became a star witness for the Knapp Commission, which uncovered widespread corruption within the New York City Police Department. His notoriety from the commission's hearings brought forth evidence of the 1968 crimes. After two trials he was ultimately convicted in 1974 and sentenced to a 25-year-to-life term. Mr. Phillips has been incarcerated ever since.
In prison, Mr. Phillips has amassed a perfect disciplinary record. He earned a legal research certificate and taught legal research to other inmates for 17 years, served as deputy superintendent of the prison law library, earned bachelor's and master's degrees and participated in numerous training and leadership programs. Two now-deceased judges wrote letters recommending Mr. Phillips' release and even the chairman of the parole board said Mr. Phillips had rehabilitated himself. Mr. Phillips has a job awaiting him at Manhattanville College and an offer to live with his niece.
Initially, the parole board denied release contending Mr. Phillips was a continuing threat to society.
However, after Manhattan Supreme Court Justice Alice Schlesinger in 2003 found that reasoning absurd and ordered a new hearing, the board changed its stance. It apparently no longer claims Mr. Phillips is dangerous, but that to release him would deprecate the seriousness of his offenses and undermine respect for the law.
Board's 'Lip Service'
Justice Friedman is not buying it.
In an 11-page decision dated Sept. 29 but released yesterday, she said the parole board "merely paid lip service" to its statutory obligations and delved into forbidden territory by considering penal policy.
She pointed specifically to Mr. Phillips' 2005 parole hearing, where board Chairman Robert Dennison called the convict a "model inmate" but asked, "How many years is enough for taking two lives and trying to kill a third?"
That question, Justice Friedman suggested, was answered by the sentencing court 31 years ago.
"[T]he board impermissibly based its denial on a non-statutory factor - its opinion as to the proper penalty for the crime - while in effect disregarding both that the petitioner has achieved a complete rehabilitation and that the statutory scheme required the Board to take this factor into account," she wrote.
Justice Friedman also said the board's third denial of parole, when it claimed that Mr. Phillips was a danger to society only to get shot down by Justice Schlesinger, "now appears to have been pretextual." She said the most recent parole denial, in 2005, "was similarly based on an improper 'disposition' to deny parole to the petitioner, rather than a fair consideration of the statutory factors."
The court, however, declined in a footnote to address Mr. Phillips' allegation that the board was advancing Governor George E. Pataki's political agenda rather than following the law.
Governor Pataki has advocated an end to parole and critics contend he is attempting to achieve bureaucratically - he has appointed all parole board members - what he cannot achieve legislatively.
Mr. Phillips is among dozens of prisoners raising that allegation in a class action before Southern District Judge Charles L. Brieant (NYLJ, July 20).
Justice Friedman left that issue with the federal court.
Ruling Called 'Firm Step'
Mr. Phillips' pro bono attorney, Daniel M. Perez of Kuby & Perez in Manhattan, said the ruling represents "a firm step toward a court suggesting, if not outright ordering, that the Division of Parole has to release someone on parole."
"I am not aware of any case in which that was done, but I am glad that Justice Friedman issued this order," Mr. Perez said. "It is clear that the Division of Parole will just continue to deny him parole," he said, adding that at some point, "someone needs to tell the Division of Parole that enough is enough and it is time to release him."
Parole-eligible inmates and their attorneys have been frustrated that the courts have generally found themselves powerless to do anything other than afford prisoners new hearings.
After serving the minimum portion of a sentence, an inmate is automatically granted a parole hearing every two years. After an inmate is denied parole, he usually goes through the administrative process - almost always losing - and then heads to court. If an inmate does not prevail on an Article 78 proceeding at the trial level, and few do, he then attempts to appeal.
However, by the time the appeal gets before an appellate division nearly two years has passed and the appellate panel dismisses the case for mootness: Since the court can do nothing but order a rehearing and the inmate has one coming up, there is no reason for the judiciary to get involved, the courts reason.
Typically, the inmate is again denied parole at the next regularly scheduled hearing and the cycle begins anew.
But Justice Friedman's ruling threatens to alter that routine, if other judges and appellate courts agree that there are times when the courts can direct a remedy other than a rehearing.
"What purpose does the judiciary serve if all they can do is tell the executive branch what it should do?" Mr. Perez asked. "At a certain point, the judiciary has the power to command the executive branch to take certain acts, and I think this is one of them."
Assistant Attorney General Neil S. Shevlin defended the parole board.
Division of Parole spokesman Scott E. Steinhardt yesterday declined comment on what he referred to as "ongoing litigation."
It was not immediately clear if the Division of Parole will appeal, but it has 30 days to make that determination.
Christine Pritchard, a spokeswoman for the attorney general, said the ruling is under review and the Department of Law will confer with its client before deciding on a course of action.
- John Caher can be reached at jcaher@alm.com.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
Parole Profile: Joseph Rudd
Joseph Rudd is an exceptionally outstanding individual in need of support. Please read his own words below and take it into your heart to do what you can. Letters of support can be sent to: sponsoraprisoner@aol.com, as can requests for any further information.
JOSEPH RUDD 83A7286
Otisville Correctional Facility
POB 8 Otisville NY 10963
Personal Statement
I was born and raised in Williamsburg, Brooklyn where I lived in the same home with my parents for 24 years until incarcerated in 1982 on a murder conviction which I take responsiblity for. Prior to incarceration I attended Catholic grammar school, obtained a GED and I worked for eight years with Local 32B union as a heating plant technician. My fiance and I of six years had a planned and scheduled wedding date.
Upon entering prison in 1983 I realized that in order to truly seek redemption my journey could not wait until I was released back into society. My personal path to redemption would have to begin to be paved right where I was. Through lots of soul searching and deep faith I have taken the steps to change my life around to enable me to make a positive transition back into society. While none of my prison accomplishments will ever compensate the tragic loss of life, which I am responsible and have deep remorse for, I am hoping they will however serve as an honest testimony to the sincere and positive changes in my life.
Volunteer Programs
22 years Alternative to Violence Project,USA, (AVP) Lead Training Facilitator, 20 years elected office for St. Pauls Holy Name Society at Greenhaven, in excess of 3000 hours of Community Service work in several counties, NYS Forest Ranger Training in fighting forest fires, 20 years Sick and Vigil Committee at Greenhaven, 3 years Altar Boy at St. Therese Chapel, 3 years Bible study course at Mid-Orange C.F., Aggression Replacement Training, Alcohol Substance Abuse Training,Compadres Helper Peer Counselor Program, AA, Therapeutic Training course, Legal Research Program, Yourth Assistance Program, 3 years Public Relations Officer for Governmental Educational Organization, founder of GEO sub-committee on Work release, 15 years in Privilege Honor Block Housing Unit.
Commendations Received
NYS Department of Corrections Commissioner Thomas Coughlin Certificate of Achievement, Certificates of Achievement from Greenhaven Superintendents, Charles Scully and Christopher Artuz, Letter of Commendation from Deputy Superintendent of Secutiy at Greenhaven, 90 signatures of Parole support from Greenhaven officers, sergeants, lieutenants, captain, the president treasureer and representative of the officers union, letter of achievement and support for parole from correction counselors, directors, coordinators of the veteran self help project, several priests, deacons, rabbis, Marist college and Stormville school teachers, Civilian Volunteers and facilitators spanning twenty four years.
Release Plans
As a lead-training facilitator for the Alternatives to Violence Project USA I plan to work with clergy, administrative services, community leaders, associations and organizations to recruit and train new AVP facilitators to do workshops in the communities, churches schools, shelters, youth centers, county jails, prisons and private corporations.
Closing
In closing I deeply regret the role I played in the death of another human being. There are no words that I can find or think of that could adequately express the deep shame, regret, sorrow and remorse that I feel daily. It is something I will live with for the rest of my life. I will never engage in such behavior in my life ever again. I will take every opportunity to do good by others and give back to society.
JOSEPH RUDD 83A7286
Otisville Correctional Facility
POB 8 Otisville NY 10963
Personal Statement
I was born and raised in Williamsburg, Brooklyn where I lived in the same home with my parents for 24 years until incarcerated in 1982 on a murder conviction which I take responsiblity for. Prior to incarceration I attended Catholic grammar school, obtained a GED and I worked for eight years with Local 32B union as a heating plant technician. My fiance and I of six years had a planned and scheduled wedding date.
Upon entering prison in 1983 I realized that in order to truly seek redemption my journey could not wait until I was released back into society. My personal path to redemption would have to begin to be paved right where I was. Through lots of soul searching and deep faith I have taken the steps to change my life around to enable me to make a positive transition back into society. While none of my prison accomplishments will ever compensate the tragic loss of life, which I am responsible and have deep remorse for, I am hoping they will however serve as an honest testimony to the sincere and positive changes in my life.
Volunteer Programs
22 years Alternative to Violence Project,USA, (AVP) Lead Training Facilitator, 20 years elected office for St. Pauls Holy Name Society at Greenhaven, in excess of 3000 hours of Community Service work in several counties, NYS Forest Ranger Training in fighting forest fires, 20 years Sick and Vigil Committee at Greenhaven, 3 years Altar Boy at St. Therese Chapel, 3 years Bible study course at Mid-Orange C.F., Aggression Replacement Training, Alcohol Substance Abuse Training,Compadres Helper Peer Counselor Program, AA, Therapeutic Training course, Legal Research Program, Yourth Assistance Program, 3 years Public Relations Officer for Governmental Educational Organization, founder of GEO sub-committee on Work release, 15 years in Privilege Honor Block Housing Unit.
Commendations Received
NYS Department of Corrections Commissioner Thomas Coughlin Certificate of Achievement, Certificates of Achievement from Greenhaven Superintendents, Charles Scully and Christopher Artuz, Letter of Commendation from Deputy Superintendent of Secutiy at Greenhaven, 90 signatures of Parole support from Greenhaven officers, sergeants, lieutenants, captain, the president treasureer and representative of the officers union, letter of achievement and support for parole from correction counselors, directors, coordinators of the veteran self help project, several priests, deacons, rabbis, Marist college and Stormville school teachers, Civilian Volunteers and facilitators spanning twenty four years.
Release Plans
As a lead-training facilitator for the Alternatives to Violence Project USA I plan to work with clergy, administrative services, community leaders, associations and organizations to recruit and train new AVP facilitators to do workshops in the communities, churches schools, shelters, youth centers, county jails, prisons and private corporations.
Closing
In closing I deeply regret the role I played in the death of another human being. There are no words that I can find or think of that could adequately express the deep shame, regret, sorrow and remorse that I feel daily. It is something I will live with for the rest of my life. I will never engage in such behavior in my life ever again. I will take every opportunity to do good by others and give back to society.
Saturday, September 30, 2006
October 2006 - Building Bridges
Dear Reader,
October is finally here, the month The Coalition of Family and Community has been preparing for since April. In 21 days we will meet at 50 East 7th Street near Second Avenue in Manhattan, at Middle Collegiate Church, for Family Empowerment Day 2, when we’ll join together to begin the Campaign for Social Justice, Parole Reform, and Accountable Government. Article #2 contains more information about the event, and ways to help. We hope to see you on October 21st!
Articles:
#1. Announcements - Documentary about Rehabilitation Through the Arts at Sing Sing; New time for Voices from The Prison Action Network Radio: 6 am Wed; Ride Board list of rides wanted to prisons.
#2. Family Empowerment Day 2 - Sat.10/21/06, Donations, Sponsors, Agenda, How to help.
Join the Campaign for Social Justice, Parole Reform and Accountable Government
#3. Health Care:Prison Style - Panel Suggests Using Inmates in Drug Trials
#4. Parole - Are we seeing an increase in releases? 27 paroled at one prison, 9 with violent offenses, 4 from the Lifer’s Group; study shows ex-offenders less likely to repeat years later:
#5. Prison Abuse - Attica Remembered, by Wm Clanton; Albany Vigil continues and invites interested people to Soiree Sunday Oct. 15; NAMI Criminal Justice support group forming on S.I.; Baba Eng, human rights advocate, recovering from surgery.
#6. Words from a "Juvenile Offender" by Waki Milling - "Many, if not most of us were 13, 14,15 years of age when we took innocent life. No one cared to pay attention to why."
#7. Words from Anthony Papa - "I was deemed a ‘drug kingpin’ when I was arrested for a four-ounce sale of cocaine. When the facts came out, it was obvious that I was no kingpin, but instead a low-level drug offender."
#8. Words from Ramon - Part of growing is recognizing those you've hurt, so this month I want to recognize the victims; particularly mine....most importantly I apologize to society for the crime I committed, for the fear and scars I helped plant in every heart and soul
#9. FED2 Flyer - What, Where, When, Who, and how....
1. ANNOUNCEMENTS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26TH: GEORGE STONEY ON "PRISON ACTION" - 7 PM SCREENING at The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 Sixth Avenue - at 101st St in Troy NY
The 2005 documentary "Getting Out" by Stoney and his former student David Bagnall holds true to one of the basic precepts of community media: giving a forum to unheard voices and stories. This film about Rehabilitation Through the Arts, an experimental theater program at the Sing Sing correctional facility designed to prepare inmates for their eventual release, will be followed by a panel discussion and live poetry reading and discussion with Robert Sanchez, who was a participant of the Rehabilitation Through the Arts Program. Presented with Prison Action Network. Pot-luck to meet George and Robert from 5:30-7:00, with prison reform activists from the Capital Region. More Information at: 518 272 2390 or 253 7533 or The Sanctuary for Independent Media
VOICES FROM THE PRISON ACTION NETWORK will be heard at 6 AM on Wednesday mornings on WRPI Troy, 91.5 FM for the Fall Season. Anyone who would like to join us on the air to talk about issues connected to incarceration is welcome to do so. If you live outside our 75 mile range you can listen at 6 AM on Wednesdays by going to www.wrpi.org.
RIDE BOARD - If you would like to share a ride to the prison where you visit, please send us a note with where to, where from, and your contact info. If you no longer need a ride, please let us know to remove your name.
To Bedford Hills from Albany - Qasim - 518 334 2607, freeb2beme@yahoo.com
To Gt. Meadow from Albany - Qasim - 518 334 2607, freeb2beme@yahoo.com
To Gt. Meadow from Albany - Fri. 10/6, lvg 8am - Judith 518 282 2029, jbimages@hotmail.com
To Malone (Franklin C.F.) from NYC - Safiya Bandele 646 331 1820, ibnk@aol.com
To Otisville from Albany - Sat. 11/4, lv’g 7am - Judith - 518 482 2029, jbimages@hotmail.com
2. FAMILY EMPOWERMENT DAY 2, Saturday October 21, 2006
11 am - 3pm
50 East 7th St., near 2nd Ave, at Middle Collegiate Church
CAMPAIGN FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE, PAROLE REFORM AND ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNMENT.
Discussion Groups
Information Tables
Petition Signing
Letter Writing
Donations Still Needed: Funding for the program has come from individual donations: over 200 incarcerated people have donated a total of more than $400. With donations from other sources we have close to what we need, but not enough. If you haven’t already sent money we would appreciate a donation of any size. Make checks or money orders out to Prison Action Network with FED2 in the memo, and mail to the Coalition of Family and Community, HM-IMC, PO Box 35, Troy NY 12181. We are trusting we'll have the money we need. Many people are bringing food to share and asking their local stores to donate. This is a grass roots effort! See below for ways you can contribute.
Sponsors: The Coalition of Family and Community is made up of individuals and the following organizations: Citizens for Restorative Justice [CRJ], Coalition of Families of NYS Lifers, Coalition for Parole Restoration [CPR], Exodus Transitional Community, Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Reentry and Employment [ICARE], Operation Prison Gap, Otisville C.F. Lifers Organization, Prison Action Network [PAN], Prisoners Are People Too!, Social Responsibility Council [SRC] Justice Committee of First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany. [if you think your organization was mistakenly left off this list, please notify us immediately, before we print the Program brochure]
AGENDA INCLUDES:
Master of Ceremonies: Mark Chapman, Chair of African and African-American Studies At Fordham Univ. and Adjunct Professor of Theology and Ethics in the NYTS MPS Program at Sing Sing
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS:
Robert Isseks, Esq. Lead Attorney in the Pending Class Action Law Suit Challenging Present Unfair Parole Policies
Safiya Bandele, Director, Women's Center, Medgar Evers College CUNY, Performance artist
Deb Bozydaj, Mother of a Lifer
Willie Thomas, 29+ yrs a prisoner, denied parole 7X
DISCUSSION GROUPS AND LEADERS:
Leadership Development: Stacey Thompson, Coalition for Women Prisoners Outreach Coordinator
Legal Tactics: Robert Isseks, Esq. Lead Attorney in the Pending Class Action Law Suit Challenging Present Unfair Parole Policies
Legislative Advocacy: Rima Vesely-Flad, Dir. “ICARE” (Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Re-entry and Employment).
Parole Appeals: Cheryl L. Kates, Esq., Dir. “Edge of Justice”, private attorney
Parole Board Hearings: Willie Thomas, 29+ yrs a prisoner, denied parole 7 times
Prison Education: Mark Chapman, Chair of African and African-American Studies At Fordham Univ. and Adjunct Professor of Theology and Ethics in the NYTS MPS Program at Sing Sing
Re-Entry Issues for Mothers and Wives : Safiya Bandele, Director, Women's Center, Medgar Evers College CUNY, Performance artist
Special Needs of Lifers’ Families: Deb Bozydaj, Mother of a Lifer
Successful Organizing: Karima Amin, Dir. “Prisoners Are People Too!”, educator, storyteller, community organizer
CLOSING SPEECH: Rima Vesely-Flad, Dir. “ICARE” (Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Re-entry and Employment)
CALL TO ACTION: Mark Chapman, Chair of African and African-American Studies at Fordham Univ. and Adjunct Professor of Theology and Ethics in the NYTS MPS Program at Sing Sing
YOUR HELP IS NEEDED.
Immediately:
For flyer distribution - at the Operation Prison Gap bus stop at 58th St. and 8th Ave on Friday and Saturday nights from Sept 29 through October 14. Also anywhere else you can think of where prison families and friends will be. Flyers are available at the OPG bus stop. Talk to the bus coordinators - Denise in particular, or call Judith 518 482-2029
To register people to vote - at the above location. If you call me 518 482 2029 or Willie at 646 294 9460, we'll set you up. It's very simple, but you do need forms and short instructions.
To solicit donations of the following things from your friends or people you do business with [including your place of worship or your neighborhood store owners]:
a tray of food for our potluck lunch
coffee
tea bags
paper and pens for attendees
paper cups, plates, napkins
snacks
juice
water
donuts, muffins, bagels
butter, cream cheese
Before the Event - 10 AM sharp:
Anyone who can show up at 10 am to take directions from the harried team who will be trying to get it all set up within the one hour we have for preparations. Sign making, moving tables, setting up coffee and breakfast snacks.....
Performers who would dance, sing; choirs, solo performers, break dancing, socially responsible Rap, to entertain the people passing by or waiting to get in.
Shoppers: for last minute supplies.
At the Event:
Registrars - we need to get the names and contact info of every person who attends because we need to keep in touch following the event. This is not a one-shot deal but the beginning of a campaign. We want sign-in to go as smoothly as possible.
Computer entry - someone with a laptop and knowledge of data entry to enter the information gathered by the registrars, as it is received.
Greeters - friendly folks to greet people as they arrive, show them the bathrooms, etc.
Outside greeters with flyers [1 at front door, 1 at corner, 1 at side door] to help people find the right door, and maybe interest some passersby to attend.
Child care helpers - to help children who are wandering or disruptive to join activities we will have available. [there's no space set aside for this, so we are not encouraging childrens' attendance, but we want to keep the children happy who do attend]
Thank you very much for helping with the preparations for this powerful meeting! Let me know what you can do, and I'll support you in doing it: Judith at 518 482 2029, or prisonaction@hotmail.com
3. HEALTH CARE - PRISON STYLE
August 13, 2006 Panel Suggests Using Inmates in Drug Trials By IAN URBINA [EXCERPTS]
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 7 — An influential federal panel of medical advisers has recommended that the government loosen regulations that severely limit the testing of pharmaceuticals on prison inmates, a practice that was all but stopped three decades ago after revelations of abuse.
The proposed change includes provisions intended to prevent problems that plagued earlier programs. Nevertheless, it has dredged up a painful history of medical mistreatment and incited debate among prison rights advocates and researchers about whether prisoners can truly make uncoerced decisions, given the environment they live in.
Supporters of such programs cite the possibility of benefit to prison populations, and the potential for contributing to the greater good.
.....“The current regulations are entirely outdated and restrictive, and prisoners are being arbitrarily excluded from research that can help them,” said Ernest D. Prentice, a University of Nebraska genetics professor and the chairman of a Health and Human Services Department committee that requested the study. Mr. Prentice said the regulation revision process would begin at the committee’s next meeting, on Nov. 2.
....... the committee’s report comes against the backdrop of a prison population that has more than quadrupled, to about 2.3 million, over the last 30 years and that disproportionately suffers from H.I.V. and hepatitis C, diseases that some researchers say could be better controlled if new research were permitted in prisons.
Dr. A. Bernard Ackerman, a New York dermatologist who worked at Holmesburg during the 1960’s trials as a second-year resident from the University of Pennsylvania, said he remained skeptical. “I saw it firsthand,” Dr. Ackerman said. “What started as scientific research became pure business, and no amount of regulations can prevent that from happening again.”
Daniel S. Murphy, a professor of criminal justice at Appalachian State University in Boone, N.C., who was imprisoned for five years in the 1990’s for growing marijuana, said that loosening the regulations would be a mistake.
“Free and informed consent becomes pretty questionable when prisoners don’t hold the keys to their own cells,” Professor Murphy said, “and in many cases they can’t read, yet they are signing a document that it practically takes a law degree to understand.”
Barclay Walsh contributed research for this article.
4. PAROLE
Releases: Rumor has it that the number of parole releases has dramatically increased in the last month or two. Any coincidence between that and the fact that 7 of the current parole board will be replaced at the beginning of the next term? Or that the man with the power to hire and fire them is on his way out? Or that we’ve all been hard at work sending letters and petitions in support of parole reform? I’ll make a guess and say that all of the above had something to do with it. And so we should all give ourselves a pat on the back, take some credit, and then get back to work fighting for justice! Welcome home to all those granted parole! [27 paroled at Otisville, 9 with violent offenses, 4 from the Lifer’s Group.] And may all the rest of you community-ready men and women follow soon.
Ex-Offenders Less Likely To Repeat Years Later: Study
Should employers be willing gamble on hiring someone with a rap sheet?, asks St. Paul Pioneer Press columnist Ruben Rosario. A new study by two University of South Carolina criminologists found that ex-offenders with years-old rap sheets are less likely to re-offend than those recently released. The study, "Scarlet Letters and Recidivism: Does an old criminal record predict future offending?," analyzed previous studies and crunched original data tracking offenders and non-offenders in Philadelphia since 1958. It recommends several policy changes, including expunging records for some offenders.
The study found that most folks tend to re-offend or violate terms of their probation [sic] within a few months or years of their release. Those who stayed law abiding still suffered from employment difficulties years after the offense, even though they were less likely to re-offend. "We would like to encourage policymakers through our study to seriously consider whether we can afford to have a policy where we have carte balance exclusion of such offenders for jobs,'' said co-author Robert Brame. The study, from the journal Criminology & Public Policy, can be found at this site ..... St. Paul Pioneer Press
5. PRISON ABUSE
Attica Remembered, by William Clanton
I'd like to take a moment to remember the many brothers who were killed in the Attica massacre on 9/13/1971, and the many who afterwards suffered being beaten and treated like no living being should be. My prayers are with them, their families and friends. "We have not forgotten".
It's appalling how something so horrific as this has been forgotten by so many when today's prison population is at an all time high [2.2 million] and growing, and many facilities closely resemble the conditions and treatment of 30 years ago. I have seen in my years in prison the use of excessive force on inmates for issues as small as talking on the gate or just not having the right look on your face when in the presence of certain officers. Brothers and Sisters on the Inside and the Outside, please know that little has changed in these institutions regarding abuse that we have been undergoing in these places since they've opened. We are very much in need of support from the outside to address these issues.
- William Clanton O3A4400
Albany Vigil for the Victims of Prison Abuse
Every Tuesday at 5:30pm, corner of Washington Avenue and Lark Street. Those now incarcerated will one day be released and will need to readjust and contribute to our communities. Show that you care. Join us at the vigil and sign the petition at www.stopprisonabuse.org
All are invited to attend a SOIREE and fundraiser to help raise awareness, ideas, and funds for stopprisonabuse.org. Sunday, October 15th, 5:00 pm / 152 Lancaster Street / Albany (between Dove and Swan).
For information call 518 727 4335 or 917 656 8046 or email courtney920@hotmail.com.
National Alliance for the Mentally ILL [NAMI], Staten Island, NY
Criminal Justice Support Group: We are in the process of forming a support group for family members and friends of loved ones who live with mental illness and who are incarcerated or who have come in contact with the criminal justice system.
For those who would be interested in joining our support group please call 718-477-1700,
e-mail namistatenisland@aol.com, or write 930 Willowbrook Road, Building 41A, S. I. NY 10314. We look forward to hearing from you. Together we can make a difference
Human Rights Advocate, Baba Eng, is Recuperating
GEORGE BABA ENG had shoulder replacement surgery on August 31, 2006 in Rome Memorial Hospital. Baba is a politicized prisoner who has worked for many years as a law library clerk and "jailhouse lawyer," and as a champion for more humane treatment for all behind bars. He is currently recovering in the prison hospital. He will be moved to general population in a few days. Complete recovery for this kind of surgery takes about 18 months. You may send letters of support to George Baba Eng, DIN 77A4777, Auburn C.F. 135 State Street, Box 618, Auburn, NY 13021.
Baba's life and work were the catalyst for the founding of "Prisoners Are People Too!" For more information, call Karima Amin 716-834-8438.
6. WORDS FROM A "JUVENILE OFFENDER" by Waki Milling:
Many of us in here are encouraged by what PAN, CPR, and other organizations are trying to accomplish in regard to the unfair parole practices taking place in NYS today. We recognize that you need encouragement as well.
I personally realize that as tough as it may seem to be doing 10,20,or even 30 or more years behind these walls, that nothing can compare to a woman, child, friend, or a parent sticking by your side relentlessly during all that time. You all deserve our support for doing all you do for us out there. Many, if not most, of us never take into account your innumerable sacrifices. Today I say thank you, for all of us. Thank you for trusting, hoping, enduring and never giving up on us. Thank you for having the "courage" to display the forgiving spirit God has embedded in all of us.
That said, I ask your attention to the plight of countless "Juvenile Offenders" serving time behind these prison walls. For most of us, we weren't a part of the gangs you see on our streets today. We were children born and raised in the crack-cocaine epidemic of the 80's. We were the kids ridiculed in school, because we did not own a pair of Jordan sneakers, or have a leather bomber. We were the children who turned to selling drugs to get those things because our parents were crack-addicts, and there wasn't any food in our kitchens.
We were also the children who found guns on the streets, or held guns for drug dealers while they sold their drugs. We saw them shoot people or get shot. We grew up wanting to imitate them, because we were infatuated with their style of living. Some of us were forced into the streets and had to embrace it because there was nothing at home. For most of us, we believed in the lies and treachery of the 80's. We believed that this was the only way to live. We believed that it WAS life! So we played with fake guns, and purchased fake jewelry. We stuffed plaster inside of empty crack vials we found sprawled all over the floors of our parks and hallways.
Many, if not most, of us were 13, 14,15 years of age when we took innocent life. No one cared to pay attention to why. We did not come from nurturing homes. There was no parental guidance. We were orphans of the streets. Many of whom could not show proper remorse for our actions at that time because we were born and raised when the streets were numb to any sign of natural affection. I was one of these children. I was fifteen years old when I took another fifteen year old's life in the Bronx back in 1990.
My crime was senseless, deplorable, and outright shocking to my conscience. What though, did anyone expect, when in 1989 and 1990 combined there were more people killed on the streets of NYC than those lost in the World Trade Center. There were an average of ten or more people killed each day. What do you tell a child who lived and breathed death everyday of his/her life? A child who most likely saw a bullet riddled corpse before he or she was even nine years old? A sight that would not have given that child nightmares because it was so common. I personally knew of or saw 15 murders and deaths between 1984 and 1990, before I committed my crime.
I am in no way trying to condemn the persons who spawned these incidents. I cannot. For each of us, our circumstances are different. Furthermore, I believe in change and more importantly, I believe in second chances. For as Almighty God, our Father, says, "I take delight, not in the death of the wicked one, but in that someone wicked turns back from his way and actually keeps living." (Ezekial 33:11) New World Translation.
After 10, 15, 20, or 30 years, the statistics prove that many of us who served these sentences have indeed turned back from our wicked ways. We have embraced both God and society's view of reform. We opened ourselves up to believe in a system geared toward rehabilitation. We conquered our stubbornness and allowed our hearts to heal and to become warm once again. We did this because we were offered change, and with that change was supposed to come freedom.
I am asking that you raise your voices for us. Those of us like Cecil Myers, Jiya Kennedy, Maurice Himes, Danny Vasquez, Danny Mohika, Dalton Harriet, Anthony Jermont, Zulu Davis, Craig Simpson, Shamel Saunders, Michael Rico, and those I can only remember by nickname, Kwame, Little Co, Smurf, Moe, D. Black, Fonze, Speed, Nitty, and many others not mentioned. We all grew up in prison. We were raised by the streets and now this system. A system that does work if you let it. We were raised in a decade reminiscent of our modern day Darfur. Give us a voice. I think we deserve it.
Thank you, Waki Milling 95A1840
7. WORDS FROM ANTHONY PAPA: DON'T MISUSE THE LAW TO PUNISH KINGPINS
To the Editor:
Re "Setting Kingpins Free," by Leslie Crocker Snyder ( New York Times Op-Ed, July 16 ):
In 1984, I was deemed a "drug kingpin" by the Westchester District Attorney's Office when I was arrested for a four-ounce sale of cocaine. When the facts came out, it was obvious that I was no kingpin, but instead a low-level drug offender. But I was still sentenced to 15 years to life under the Rockefeller drug laws when I rejected a plea bargain. After serving 12 years, I was granted clemency by Gov. George E. Pataki.
Recently, a report released by Bridget G. Brennan, New York City's special prosecutor for narcotics, proclaimed that high-level drug offenders are being released under the Drug Law Reform Act of 2004. Ms. Brennan called for a kingpin statute. I agree. We do need a kingpin statue that would be applied to major traffickers. But it should not be used as a prosecutorial tool to encourage sentencing pleas from defendants like me.
There are hundreds of low-level, nonviolent drug law offenders stuck in prison who deserve to have a chance to regain their freedom. Most have served a tremendous amount of time and are eligible for relief under the changes. They remain jailed because of the "kingpin" rationale that has become a standard response by district attorneys to block applications for re-sentencing under the new reforms.
Anthony Papa, New York
The writer, a communications specialist for the Drug Policy Alliance, is the author of a book about his experience in prison.
8. WORDS FROM RAMON:
I usually use this column to talk about our struggle and the work being done to pursue it, but as we fight for that which is our privilege, we also grow. Part of growing is recognizing those you've hurt, so this month I want to recognize the victims; particularly mine.
My Burden: Over the course of sixteen years I’ve had ample time to contemplate what I’ve already known; I killed someone. I realize now, like I realized then, that what I did is wrong. At a deep level I have come to understand and accept responsibility for my actions. I’ve had the opportunity to look back and see the face of a man in terror. A man that I helped kill. Now I understand the terror that the victim showed me but at the time I could not take in.
I say to him now: “I’m sorry. Your life wasn’t mine to take; I’m sorry I cut it short; I’m sorry I took from you what God gave to you. I apologize to your family and loved ones for taking you and all your potential from them.” I also apologize to my family for having put them through this entire ordeal. But most importantly I apologize to society for the crime I committed, for the fear and scars I helped plant in every heart and soul.
I could have walked away.... I SHOULD have walked away.... Instead I will carry the guilt, weight and burden of two men on my shoulders for the rest of MY life.
Please forgive me. Ramon Gonzalez 92A7663
9.
Family Empowerment Day #2
Saturday, October 21st, 2006
11am - 3 pm
50 East 7th Street, near 2nd Ave.
(Middle Collegiate Church)
JOIN OUR CAMPAIGN
FOR
SOCIAL JUSTICE,
PAROLE REFORM AND
ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNMENT
Keynote Speakers include Robert Isseks, Esq. Lead Attorney in the Pending Class Action Law Suit Challenging Present Unfair Parole Policies
Discussion Groups
Information Tables
Petitions
Letter Writing
free refreshments
Directions: Subway: Lexington Local #6 train to Astor Place stop; Broadway Line #N,R,or W train to 8 St NYU stop. Bus: The Second Ave M-15 local bus stops at 6th and 8th St., as does the uptown First Ave M-15 bus.
Sponsored by the Coalition of Family and Community.
For more information, please call: 716-834-8438, 518 253-7533, 845 616-9698, 212 426-9881
October is finally here, the month The Coalition of Family and Community has been preparing for since April. In 21 days we will meet at 50 East 7th Street near Second Avenue in Manhattan, at Middle Collegiate Church, for Family Empowerment Day 2, when we’ll join together to begin the Campaign for Social Justice, Parole Reform, and Accountable Government. Article #2 contains more information about the event, and ways to help. We hope to see you on October 21st!
Articles:
#1. Announcements - Documentary about Rehabilitation Through the Arts at Sing Sing; New time for Voices from The Prison Action Network Radio: 6 am Wed; Ride Board list of rides wanted to prisons.
#2. Family Empowerment Day 2 - Sat.10/21/06, Donations, Sponsors, Agenda, How to help.
Join the Campaign for Social Justice, Parole Reform and Accountable Government
#3. Health Care:Prison Style - Panel Suggests Using Inmates in Drug Trials
#4. Parole - Are we seeing an increase in releases? 27 paroled at one prison, 9 with violent offenses, 4 from the Lifer’s Group; study shows ex-offenders less likely to repeat years later:
#5. Prison Abuse - Attica Remembered, by Wm Clanton; Albany Vigil continues and invites interested people to Soiree Sunday Oct. 15; NAMI Criminal Justice support group forming on S.I.; Baba Eng, human rights advocate, recovering from surgery.
#6. Words from a "Juvenile Offender" by Waki Milling - "Many, if not most of us were 13, 14,15 years of age when we took innocent life. No one cared to pay attention to why."
#7. Words from Anthony Papa - "I was deemed a ‘drug kingpin’ when I was arrested for a four-ounce sale of cocaine. When the facts came out, it was obvious that I was no kingpin, but instead a low-level drug offender."
#8. Words from Ramon - Part of growing is recognizing those you've hurt, so this month I want to recognize the victims; particularly mine....most importantly I apologize to society for the crime I committed, for the fear and scars I helped plant in every heart and soul
#9. FED2 Flyer - What, Where, When, Who, and how....
1. ANNOUNCEMENTS
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 26TH: GEORGE STONEY ON "PRISON ACTION" - 7 PM SCREENING at The Sanctuary for Independent Media, 3361 Sixth Avenue - at 101st St in Troy NY
The 2005 documentary "Getting Out" by Stoney and his former student David Bagnall holds true to one of the basic precepts of community media: giving a forum to unheard voices and stories. This film about Rehabilitation Through the Arts, an experimental theater program at the Sing Sing correctional facility designed to prepare inmates for their eventual release, will be followed by a panel discussion and live poetry reading and discussion with Robert Sanchez, who was a participant of the Rehabilitation Through the Arts Program. Presented with Prison Action Network. Pot-luck to meet George and Robert from 5:30-7:00, with prison reform activists from the Capital Region. More Information at: 518 272 2390 or 253 7533 or The Sanctuary for Independent Media
VOICES FROM THE PRISON ACTION NETWORK will be heard at 6 AM on Wednesday mornings on WRPI Troy, 91.5 FM for the Fall Season. Anyone who would like to join us on the air to talk about issues connected to incarceration is welcome to do so. If you live outside our 75 mile range you can listen at 6 AM on Wednesdays by going to www.wrpi.org.
RIDE BOARD - If you would like to share a ride to the prison where you visit, please send us a note with where to, where from, and your contact info. If you no longer need a ride, please let us know to remove your name.
To Bedford Hills from Albany - Qasim - 518 334 2607, freeb2beme@yahoo.com
To Gt. Meadow from Albany - Qasim - 518 334 2607, freeb2beme@yahoo.com
To Gt. Meadow from Albany - Fri. 10/6, lvg 8am - Judith 518 282 2029, jbimages@hotmail.com
To Malone (Franklin C.F.) from NYC - Safiya Bandele 646 331 1820, ibnk@aol.com
To Otisville from Albany - Sat. 11/4, lv’g 7am - Judith - 518 482 2029, jbimages@hotmail.com
2. FAMILY EMPOWERMENT DAY 2, Saturday October 21, 2006
11 am - 3pm
50 East 7th St., near 2nd Ave, at Middle Collegiate Church
CAMPAIGN FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE, PAROLE REFORM AND ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNMENT.
Discussion Groups
Information Tables
Petition Signing
Letter Writing
Donations Still Needed: Funding for the program has come from individual donations: over 200 incarcerated people have donated a total of more than $400. With donations from other sources we have close to what we need, but not enough. If you haven’t already sent money we would appreciate a donation of any size. Make checks or money orders out to Prison Action Network with FED2 in the memo, and mail to the Coalition of Family and Community, HM-IMC, PO Box 35, Troy NY 12181. We are trusting we'll have the money we need. Many people are bringing food to share and asking their local stores to donate. This is a grass roots effort! See below for ways you can contribute.
Sponsors: The Coalition of Family and Community is made up of individuals and the following organizations: Citizens for Restorative Justice [CRJ], Coalition of Families of NYS Lifers, Coalition for Parole Restoration [CPR], Exodus Transitional Community, Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Reentry and Employment [ICARE], Operation Prison Gap, Otisville C.F. Lifers Organization, Prison Action Network [PAN], Prisoners Are People Too!, Social Responsibility Council [SRC] Justice Committee of First Unitarian Universalist Society of Albany. [if you think your organization was mistakenly left off this list, please notify us immediately, before we print the Program brochure]
AGENDA INCLUDES:
Master of Ceremonies: Mark Chapman, Chair of African and African-American Studies At Fordham Univ. and Adjunct Professor of Theology and Ethics in the NYTS MPS Program at Sing Sing
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS:
Robert Isseks, Esq. Lead Attorney in the Pending Class Action Law Suit Challenging Present Unfair Parole Policies
Safiya Bandele, Director, Women's Center, Medgar Evers College CUNY, Performance artist
Deb Bozydaj, Mother of a Lifer
Willie Thomas, 29+ yrs a prisoner, denied parole 7X
DISCUSSION GROUPS AND LEADERS:
Leadership Development: Stacey Thompson, Coalition for Women Prisoners Outreach Coordinator
Legal Tactics: Robert Isseks, Esq. Lead Attorney in the Pending Class Action Law Suit Challenging Present Unfair Parole Policies
Legislative Advocacy: Rima Vesely-Flad, Dir. “ICARE” (Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Re-entry and Employment).
Parole Appeals: Cheryl L. Kates, Esq., Dir. “Edge of Justice”, private attorney
Parole Board Hearings: Willie Thomas, 29+ yrs a prisoner, denied parole 7 times
Prison Education: Mark Chapman, Chair of African and African-American Studies At Fordham Univ. and Adjunct Professor of Theology and Ethics in the NYTS MPS Program at Sing Sing
Re-Entry Issues for Mothers and Wives : Safiya Bandele, Director, Women's Center, Medgar Evers College CUNY, Performance artist
Special Needs of Lifers’ Families: Deb Bozydaj, Mother of a Lifer
Successful Organizing: Karima Amin, Dir. “Prisoners Are People Too!”, educator, storyteller, community organizer
CLOSING SPEECH: Rima Vesely-Flad, Dir. “ICARE” (Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Re-entry and Employment)
CALL TO ACTION: Mark Chapman, Chair of African and African-American Studies at Fordham Univ. and Adjunct Professor of Theology and Ethics in the NYTS MPS Program at Sing Sing
YOUR HELP IS NEEDED.
Immediately:
For flyer distribution - at the Operation Prison Gap bus stop at 58th St. and 8th Ave on Friday and Saturday nights from Sept 29 through October 14. Also anywhere else you can think of where prison families and friends will be. Flyers are available at the OPG bus stop. Talk to the bus coordinators - Denise in particular, or call Judith 518 482-2029
To register people to vote - at the above location. If you call me 518 482 2029 or Willie at 646 294 9460, we'll set you up. It's very simple, but you do need forms and short instructions.
To solicit donations of the following things from your friends or people you do business with [including your place of worship or your neighborhood store owners]:
a tray of food for our potluck lunch
coffee
tea bags
paper and pens for attendees
paper cups, plates, napkins
snacks
juice
water
donuts, muffins, bagels
butter, cream cheese
Before the Event - 10 AM sharp:
Anyone who can show up at 10 am to take directions from the harried team who will be trying to get it all set up within the one hour we have for preparations. Sign making, moving tables, setting up coffee and breakfast snacks.....
Performers who would dance, sing; choirs, solo performers, break dancing, socially responsible Rap, to entertain the people passing by or waiting to get in.
Shoppers: for last minute supplies.
At the Event:
Registrars - we need to get the names and contact info of every person who attends because we need to keep in touch following the event. This is not a one-shot deal but the beginning of a campaign. We want sign-in to go as smoothly as possible.
Computer entry - someone with a laptop and knowledge of data entry to enter the information gathered by the registrars, as it is received.
Greeters - friendly folks to greet people as they arrive, show them the bathrooms, etc.
Outside greeters with flyers [1 at front door, 1 at corner, 1 at side door] to help people find the right door, and maybe interest some passersby to attend.
Child care helpers - to help children who are wandering or disruptive to join activities we will have available. [there's no space set aside for this, so we are not encouraging childrens' attendance, but we want to keep the children happy who do attend]
Thank you very much for helping with the preparations for this powerful meeting! Let me know what you can do, and I'll support you in doing it: Judith at 518 482 2029, or prisonaction@hotmail.com
3. HEALTH CARE - PRISON STYLE
August 13, 2006 Panel Suggests Using Inmates in Drug Trials By IAN URBINA [EXCERPTS]
PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 7 — An influential federal panel of medical advisers has recommended that the government loosen regulations that severely limit the testing of pharmaceuticals on prison inmates, a practice that was all but stopped three decades ago after revelations of abuse.
The proposed change includes provisions intended to prevent problems that plagued earlier programs. Nevertheless, it has dredged up a painful history of medical mistreatment and incited debate among prison rights advocates and researchers about whether prisoners can truly make uncoerced decisions, given the environment they live in.
Supporters of such programs cite the possibility of benefit to prison populations, and the potential for contributing to the greater good.
.....“The current regulations are entirely outdated and restrictive, and prisoners are being arbitrarily excluded from research that can help them,” said Ernest D. Prentice, a University of Nebraska genetics professor and the chairman of a Health and Human Services Department committee that requested the study. Mr. Prentice said the regulation revision process would begin at the committee’s next meeting, on Nov. 2.
....... the committee’s report comes against the backdrop of a prison population that has more than quadrupled, to about 2.3 million, over the last 30 years and that disproportionately suffers from H.I.V. and hepatitis C, diseases that some researchers say could be better controlled if new research were permitted in prisons.
Dr. A. Bernard Ackerman, a New York dermatologist who worked at Holmesburg during the 1960’s trials as a second-year resident from the University of Pennsylvania, said he remained skeptical. “I saw it firsthand,” Dr. Ackerman said. “What started as scientific research became pure business, and no amount of regulations can prevent that from happening again.”
Daniel S. Murphy, a professor of criminal justice at Appalachian State University in Boone, N.C., who was imprisoned for five years in the 1990’s for growing marijuana, said that loosening the regulations would be a mistake.
“Free and informed consent becomes pretty questionable when prisoners don’t hold the keys to their own cells,” Professor Murphy said, “and in many cases they can’t read, yet they are signing a document that it practically takes a law degree to understand.”
Barclay Walsh contributed research for this article.
4. PAROLE
Releases: Rumor has it that the number of parole releases has dramatically increased in the last month or two. Any coincidence between that and the fact that 7 of the current parole board will be replaced at the beginning of the next term? Or that the man with the power to hire and fire them is on his way out? Or that we’ve all been hard at work sending letters and petitions in support of parole reform? I’ll make a guess and say that all of the above had something to do with it. And so we should all give ourselves a pat on the back, take some credit, and then get back to work fighting for justice! Welcome home to all those granted parole! [27 paroled at Otisville, 9 with violent offenses, 4 from the Lifer’s Group.] And may all the rest of you community-ready men and women follow soon.
Ex-Offenders Less Likely To Repeat Years Later: Study
Should employers be willing gamble on hiring someone with a rap sheet?, asks St. Paul Pioneer Press columnist Ruben Rosario. A new study by two University of South Carolina criminologists found that ex-offenders with years-old rap sheets are less likely to re-offend than those recently released. The study, "Scarlet Letters and Recidivism: Does an old criminal record predict future offending?," analyzed previous studies and crunched original data tracking offenders and non-offenders in Philadelphia since 1958. It recommends several policy changes, including expunging records for some offenders.
The study found that most folks tend to re-offend or violate terms of their probation [sic] within a few months or years of their release. Those who stayed law abiding still suffered from employment difficulties years after the offense, even though they were less likely to re-offend. "We would like to encourage policymakers through our study to seriously consider whether we can afford to have a policy where we have carte balance exclusion of such offenders for jobs,'' said co-author Robert Brame. The study, from the journal Criminology & Public Policy, can be found at this site ..... St. Paul Pioneer Press
5. PRISON ABUSE
Attica Remembered, by William Clanton
I'd like to take a moment to remember the many brothers who were killed in the Attica massacre on 9/13/1971, and the many who afterwards suffered being beaten and treated like no living being should be. My prayers are with them, their families and friends. "We have not forgotten".
It's appalling how something so horrific as this has been forgotten by so many when today's prison population is at an all time high [2.2 million] and growing, and many facilities closely resemble the conditions and treatment of 30 years ago. I have seen in my years in prison the use of excessive force on inmates for issues as small as talking on the gate or just not having the right look on your face when in the presence of certain officers. Brothers and Sisters on the Inside and the Outside, please know that little has changed in these institutions regarding abuse that we have been undergoing in these places since they've opened. We are very much in need of support from the outside to address these issues.
- William Clanton O3A4400
Albany Vigil for the Victims of Prison Abuse
Every Tuesday at 5:30pm, corner of Washington Avenue and Lark Street. Those now incarcerated will one day be released and will need to readjust and contribute to our communities. Show that you care. Join us at the vigil and sign the petition at www.stopprisonabuse.org
All are invited to attend a SOIREE and fundraiser to help raise awareness, ideas, and funds for stopprisonabuse.org. Sunday, October 15th, 5:00 pm / 152 Lancaster Street / Albany (between Dove and Swan).
For information call 518 727 4335 or 917 656 8046 or email courtney920@hotmail.com.
National Alliance for the Mentally ILL [NAMI], Staten Island, NY
Criminal Justice Support Group: We are in the process of forming a support group for family members and friends of loved ones who live with mental illness and who are incarcerated or who have come in contact with the criminal justice system.
For those who would be interested in joining our support group please call 718-477-1700,
e-mail namistatenisland@aol.com, or write 930 Willowbrook Road, Building 41A, S. I. NY 10314. We look forward to hearing from you. Together we can make a difference
Human Rights Advocate, Baba Eng, is Recuperating
GEORGE BABA ENG had shoulder replacement surgery on August 31, 2006 in Rome Memorial Hospital. Baba is a politicized prisoner who has worked for many years as a law library clerk and "jailhouse lawyer," and as a champion for more humane treatment for all behind bars. He is currently recovering in the prison hospital. He will be moved to general population in a few days. Complete recovery for this kind of surgery takes about 18 months. You may send letters of support to George Baba Eng, DIN 77A4777, Auburn C.F. 135 State Street, Box 618, Auburn, NY 13021.
Baba's life and work were the catalyst for the founding of "Prisoners Are People Too!" For more information, call Karima Amin 716-834-8438.
6. WORDS FROM A "JUVENILE OFFENDER" by Waki Milling:
Many of us in here are encouraged by what PAN, CPR, and other organizations are trying to accomplish in regard to the unfair parole practices taking place in NYS today. We recognize that you need encouragement as well.
I personally realize that as tough as it may seem to be doing 10,20,or even 30 or more years behind these walls, that nothing can compare to a woman, child, friend, or a parent sticking by your side relentlessly during all that time. You all deserve our support for doing all you do for us out there. Many, if not most, of us never take into account your innumerable sacrifices. Today I say thank you, for all of us. Thank you for trusting, hoping, enduring and never giving up on us. Thank you for having the "courage" to display the forgiving spirit God has embedded in all of us.
That said, I ask your attention to the plight of countless "Juvenile Offenders" serving time behind these prison walls. For most of us, we weren't a part of the gangs you see on our streets today. We were children born and raised in the crack-cocaine epidemic of the 80's. We were the kids ridiculed in school, because we did not own a pair of Jordan sneakers, or have a leather bomber. We were the children who turned to selling drugs to get those things because our parents were crack-addicts, and there wasn't any food in our kitchens.
We were also the children who found guns on the streets, or held guns for drug dealers while they sold their drugs. We saw them shoot people or get shot. We grew up wanting to imitate them, because we were infatuated with their style of living. Some of us were forced into the streets and had to embrace it because there was nothing at home. For most of us, we believed in the lies and treachery of the 80's. We believed that this was the only way to live. We believed that it WAS life! So we played with fake guns, and purchased fake jewelry. We stuffed plaster inside of empty crack vials we found sprawled all over the floors of our parks and hallways.
Many, if not most, of us were 13, 14,15 years of age when we took innocent life. No one cared to pay attention to why. We did not come from nurturing homes. There was no parental guidance. We were orphans of the streets. Many of whom could not show proper remorse for our actions at that time because we were born and raised when the streets were numb to any sign of natural affection. I was one of these children. I was fifteen years old when I took another fifteen year old's life in the Bronx back in 1990.
My crime was senseless, deplorable, and outright shocking to my conscience. What though, did anyone expect, when in 1989 and 1990 combined there were more people killed on the streets of NYC than those lost in the World Trade Center. There were an average of ten or more people killed each day. What do you tell a child who lived and breathed death everyday of his/her life? A child who most likely saw a bullet riddled corpse before he or she was even nine years old? A sight that would not have given that child nightmares because it was so common. I personally knew of or saw 15 murders and deaths between 1984 and 1990, before I committed my crime.
I am in no way trying to condemn the persons who spawned these incidents. I cannot. For each of us, our circumstances are different. Furthermore, I believe in change and more importantly, I believe in second chances. For as Almighty God, our Father, says, "I take delight, not in the death of the wicked one, but in that someone wicked turns back from his way and actually keeps living." (Ezekial 33:11) New World Translation.
After 10, 15, 20, or 30 years, the statistics prove that many of us who served these sentences have indeed turned back from our wicked ways. We have embraced both God and society's view of reform. We opened ourselves up to believe in a system geared toward rehabilitation. We conquered our stubbornness and allowed our hearts to heal and to become warm once again. We did this because we were offered change, and with that change was supposed to come freedom.
I am asking that you raise your voices for us. Those of us like Cecil Myers, Jiya Kennedy, Maurice Himes, Danny Vasquez, Danny Mohika, Dalton Harriet, Anthony Jermont, Zulu Davis, Craig Simpson, Shamel Saunders, Michael Rico, and those I can only remember by nickname, Kwame, Little Co, Smurf, Moe, D. Black, Fonze, Speed, Nitty, and many others not mentioned. We all grew up in prison. We were raised by the streets and now this system. A system that does work if you let it. We were raised in a decade reminiscent of our modern day Darfur. Give us a voice. I think we deserve it.
Thank you, Waki Milling 95A1840
7. WORDS FROM ANTHONY PAPA: DON'T MISUSE THE LAW TO PUNISH KINGPINS
To the Editor:
Re "Setting Kingpins Free," by Leslie Crocker Snyder ( New York Times Op-Ed, July 16 ):
In 1984, I was deemed a "drug kingpin" by the Westchester District Attorney's Office when I was arrested for a four-ounce sale of cocaine. When the facts came out, it was obvious that I was no kingpin, but instead a low-level drug offender. But I was still sentenced to 15 years to life under the Rockefeller drug laws when I rejected a plea bargain. After serving 12 years, I was granted clemency by Gov. George E. Pataki.
Recently, a report released by Bridget G. Brennan, New York City's special prosecutor for narcotics, proclaimed that high-level drug offenders are being released under the Drug Law Reform Act of 2004. Ms. Brennan called for a kingpin statute. I agree. We do need a kingpin statue that would be applied to major traffickers. But it should not be used as a prosecutorial tool to encourage sentencing pleas from defendants like me.
There are hundreds of low-level, nonviolent drug law offenders stuck in prison who deserve to have a chance to regain their freedom. Most have served a tremendous amount of time and are eligible for relief under the changes. They remain jailed because of the "kingpin" rationale that has become a standard response by district attorneys to block applications for re-sentencing under the new reforms.
Anthony Papa, New York
The writer, a communications specialist for the Drug Policy Alliance, is the author of a book about his experience in prison.
8. WORDS FROM RAMON:
I usually use this column to talk about our struggle and the work being done to pursue it, but as we fight for that which is our privilege, we also grow. Part of growing is recognizing those you've hurt, so this month I want to recognize the victims; particularly mine.
My Burden: Over the course of sixteen years I’ve had ample time to contemplate what I’ve already known; I killed someone. I realize now, like I realized then, that what I did is wrong. At a deep level I have come to understand and accept responsibility for my actions. I’ve had the opportunity to look back and see the face of a man in terror. A man that I helped kill. Now I understand the terror that the victim showed me but at the time I could not take in.
I say to him now: “I’m sorry. Your life wasn’t mine to take; I’m sorry I cut it short; I’m sorry I took from you what God gave to you. I apologize to your family and loved ones for taking you and all your potential from them.” I also apologize to my family for having put them through this entire ordeal. But most importantly I apologize to society for the crime I committed, for the fear and scars I helped plant in every heart and soul.
I could have walked away.... I SHOULD have walked away.... Instead I will carry the guilt, weight and burden of two men on my shoulders for the rest of MY life.
Please forgive me. Ramon Gonzalez 92A7663
9.
Family Empowerment Day #2
Saturday, October 21st, 2006
11am - 3 pm
50 East 7th Street, near 2nd Ave.
(Middle Collegiate Church)
JOIN OUR CAMPAIGN
FOR
SOCIAL JUSTICE,
PAROLE REFORM AND
ACCOUNTABLE GOVERNMENT
Keynote Speakers include Robert Isseks, Esq. Lead Attorney in the Pending Class Action Law Suit Challenging Present Unfair Parole Policies
Discussion Groups
Information Tables
Petitions
Letter Writing
free refreshments
Directions: Subway: Lexington Local #6 train to Astor Place stop; Broadway Line #N,R,or W train to 8 St NYU stop. Bus: The Second Ave M-15 local bus stops at 6th and 8th St., as does the uptown First Ave M-15 bus.
Sponsored by the Coalition of Family and Community.
For more information, please call: 716-834-8438, 518 253-7533, 845 616-9698, 212 426-9881
Thursday, August 31, 2006
September 2006 - Building Bridges
Dear Reader,
I don’t know about you, but I’m getting very excited! Change is in the air. Family Empowerment Day 2 is gathering momentum. Parole Chairman Dennison is telling all at Beacon; the Class Action Lawsuit against Parole is going into Discovery; Courts are ruling against parole decisions; Pataki is on his way out and a new Governor (hopefully with fresh ideas) is coming in. It’s up to us to send a loud, clear, unwavering message at FED2, where media, advocates and politicians will be in attendance. It looks like we’re going to have a huge crowd, so get there early to be sure you get a seat. The Coalition has lined up some truly amazing people to talk to us about what they’ve accomplished and to help us get involved in the movement toward Justice. [See next to last article for details.] Parole is the main issue, but the most important thing is learning how to work together to create the changes that we all want. United we stand, divided we fall. We cannot let ourselves be divided. We must come together to work for what will improve life for all of us. If you’re reading this from your prison cell, encourage your loved ones to skip their visit on Sat 10/21 and attend Family Empowerment Day 2 instead. If you’re reading this from home, your loved one needs you to be out here working to improve conditions for him or her. We’ll have a great day together! This is a chance to give hope a chance, and to be renewed in the struggle for justice and freedom.
Articles:
1. ALBANY VIGILS FOR THE VICTIMS OF PRISON ABUSE - “Those now incarcerated will one day be released and will need to readjust and contribute to our communities.” Show that you care.
2. CHURCH TO PRISON PROJECT - “thanks to you who wrote in response to the article last month”
3. FEDERAL PAROLE BILL H.R.3072 - Support the restoration of federal parole.
4. FROM INSIDE (WILLIAM CLANTON, DENIS MARVIN) - WC: “As much as I am in agreement with Chief Judge Judith Kaye’s Commission on the Future of Indigent Defense Services, I must ponder on the sincerity of the recommendations.”, DM: “I am a 61 year old man serving a 25 years to life sentence... a story changed my life.”
5. HOW TO GET SECTION 8 OR PUBLIC HOUSING, EVEN WITH A CRIMINAL RECORD - “This guide tells people how they can get into Section 8 and public housing even if they – or someone in their household – has a criminal record or is in recovery from a drug or alcohol problem.”
6. MEETINGS - for those recently released, on parole, or with an incarcerated loved one; in Albany, Poughkeepsie, Buffalo.
7. PRISON RADIO PROGRAMS - Hudson River communities have 3 to choose from.
8. SEEKING CASES OF ROCKEFELLER DRUG LAW ABUSES - “The NYC Bar Association is working to put together a portfolio of cases that show a pattern of people being unfairly treated by the Rockefeller drug laws”
9. SHERRY BABY. A FILM ABOUT REENTRY - “Three years after entering prison for robbery as a 19-year-old heroin addict, Sherry Swanson (Maggie Gyllenhaal) begins her first day of freedom, clean and sober.”
10. SHU BILL VETOED BY PATAKI - Headlines from around the State.
11. TELEPHONE JUSTICE CAMPAIGN - “With families in the forefront, we CAN achieve the reform that is so urgently needed to end the existing Verizon/MCI contract and to ensure proper oversight of future telephone service contracts in the prison system.”
12. TRANSPORTATION TO PRISONS - Find a ride: NEST Shuttle, Free Rides, Ride Board [NEW this month; find a ride or give one].or support those riding the DOCS free bus.
Last: FAMILY EMPOWERMENT DAY 2 - “WE HAVE A WONDERFUL SLATE OF SPEAKERS AND DISCUSSION LEADERS!:”
LATE BREAKING NEWS: PATAKI APPOINTS ACTING DOCS COMMISSIONER
1. ALBANY VIGILS FOR THE VICTIMS OF PRISON ABUSE
1. Every Monday at 12 noon, State Street at the entrance to the Legislative Building
2. Every Tuesday at 5:30pm, corner of Washington Avenue and Lark Street
Those now incarcerated will one day be released and will need to readjust and contribute to our communities. Show that you care. Join us. For information call 518 727 4335 or 917 656 8046 or email, courtney920@hotmail.com
2. CHURCH TO PRISON PROJECT
The Justice Committee of FUUSA thanks those who wrote in response to the article last month describing their project to match NYS UU churches with persons incarcerated in NYS to engage in an issues-focused correspondence. The group will be reviewing those letters at their next meeting on Sept 17, as they begin their new season of work on the project.
3. FEDERAL PAROLE BILL H.R.3072
Would restore parole for federal prisoners.
For details of the bill, or for petition, visit www.fedcure.org, or write to FedCURE Plantation, Florida 33318-5667
4. FROM INSIDE (WILLIAM CLANTON, MARVIN DENIS)
Greetings to the Prison Action Network:
My prayers and condolences for the loss of Ms. Janet Elizabeth Lippincott Lugo. Anyone who sacrifices as she did deserves to be acknowledged and remembered. I’d like to find out how I can purchase the book she was co-author of. [“Instead of Prisons: A Handbook for Abolitionists (1976)” can be ordered from: PREAP, 3049 East Genesee Street , Syracuse, New York 13224 , Single copy ..$6.50 + $.50 postage & handling (Enclose payment for single orders) Ed.]
As much as I am in agreement with Chief Judge Judith Kaye’s Commission on the Future of Indigent Defense Services, I must ponder on the sincerity of the recommendations. Its findings are obvious as thousands of men and women have and remain to suffer from the very poor representation they received. Perhaps something should be done for those of us who have already suffered the ramifications of this injustice.
Not in any way to down play this issue of legal representation reform but let’s bear in mind the many politics surrounding some of the recent issues arising. If addressing the injustices is truly an issue then let’s begin in the many impoverished areas where minorities are being disproportionately targeted and sent to prison, by creating more jobs, and giving children in city schools equal education. Let’s not wait until they need equal and quality legal representation!
A few months ago I wrote that prisoners here in Coxsackie were trying to start a program called . C.H.I.S.E.L., an empowerment program to deal with emotional, psychological and spiritual aspects of being in prison and returning back into society. According to the administration here we are in need of support from an outside organization. I humbly request the help of established organizations on the outside to assist in this needed endeavor which will address the impact of incarceration. Please send all letters to me at Coxsackie C.F., PO Box 999, Coxsackie NY 12051.
Sincerely, William Clanton 03A4400
This I Believe:
I am a 61 year old man serving a 25 years to life sentence in a NYS prison. As a result, I have lost my wife, children, home and the comforts that 38 years of hard work enabled me to accumulate. Awakening each day I found myself mired in a swamp of dysfunction and violence that typifies life in a maximum security prison. As my world constricted around me, it suffocated my desire to go on living. There was no way I was going to survive until age 82 and my first parole board hearing. I felt like I had been thrown away and had been buried in a deep hole.
In our lives, if we are truly lucky, our soul is touched by another very special soul. For me that person has been my wife, Hohdel, whose support sustained me. She saw what was happening and sent me a copy of a story that has changed my life.
It was about a farmer whose old donkey had fallen into an abandoned well in a field. After locating the animal, the farmer decided that the well was too deep and the animal was not worth saving. He called his neighbors who all came with their shovels to help fill in the hole. As they started shoveling, the dirt rained down on the donkey and it kicked and brayed loudly in protest to being buried. I felt just like that donkey as the miseries of prison life rained down on me.
Then something strange happened. It became quiet at the bottom of the well. The farmer glanced over the edge and there was the donkey just standing there. As the dirt rained down on its back to bury him, he would shake it off his back and step up; shake it off his back and step up. As the well filled in, he got closer and closer to the top until he was able to step out and walk away.
What I believe is that I can be just like that donkey. If I kept shaking off the horrors associated with my prison environment, I too can step up and someday walk away. The same method that works everywhere else will work for me in prison. To accomplish this, I have surrounded myself with positive people. Yes! There are positive people even in prison and they reside in a self help, inmate run program called Network at the Clinton Correctional Facility Annex in upstate NY.
We voluntarily meet every day of the year for up to six hours to develop and practice new attitudes and behaviors needed to replace the ones that lead us to come to prison. Our programs deal with such things as decision making, overcoming all types of addiction, living a life without violence, learning to be assertive, and mastering parenting skills.
I’ve learned that prison doesn’t have to be a grave for my any more than it was for that donkey.
---Marvin Denis, 99B2409
5. HOW TO GET SECTION 8 OR PUBLIC HOUSING, EVEN WITH A CRIMINAL RECORD
From the Legal Action Center: A Guide for New York City Housing Authority Applicants and their Advocates
This guide tells people in New York City how they can get into Section 8 and public housing even if they – or someone in their household – has a criminal record or is in recovery from a drug or alcohol problem. It contains:
• New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) admissions policies for people with criminal records and recent illegal drug use,
• an explanation of the NYCHA appeals process,
• step-by-step suggestions for how to gather the evidence of rehabilitation necessary to gain housing, and
• sample letters of reference – the type that have proven useful in convincing housing authorities to admit people with criminal records and/or drug histories.
Though the manual focuses on New York City Housing Authority policies, its chapter on How Can You Win Your Hearing? can help people applying to any local housing authority. Its thorough advice for how to marshal evidence of rehabilitation applies equally to housing, employment, or occupational licenses.
This guide is a must-have for case workers, social workers, counselors, paralegals, and others who are helping individuals with criminal records and/or drug histories access public housing.
Go to the Center’s web site, www.lac.org, then click “ publications,” then "free publications" then “criminal justice”, and scroll down to the name of the guide) to download a free copy of the guide. If you can’t do that, Building Bridges will do it for you, but we’ll have to charge you $10. for printing and postage (it’s 80 pages long...)
Also note that through the Legal Action Center’s partnership with the major law firm, Debevoise & Plimpton, the Center can get legal representation for some individuals who have been denied public housing or Section 8 due to a criminal record or drug history. To see if you are eligible for assistance, call the Center at (212) 243-1313 on Tuesdays and Fridays and ask to speak with a paralegal. The Center has additional funding for individuals with HIV, so if you (or your client) is HIV positive, you can mention that and speak to a paralegal any day of the week.
Visit Legal Action Center’s web sites: www.lac.org, www.hirenetwork.org
Legal Action Center
225 Varick Street New York, New York 10014
Phone: 212-243-1313 Fax: 212-675-0286
E-mail: lacinfo@lac.org
6. MEETINGS:
A. Prison Families of New York groups:
ALBANY
7-8:30 pm every Monday at The Womens Bldg. 79 Central Ave, Albany. Ring the bell for the library and lounge to get in. Alison at 518 453 6659.
POUGHKEEPSIE
7 - 8:30 pm Monday Sept 11 and Sept 25 at the Family Partnership Building 29 North Hamilton Street. Deb at 845-616-9698, dabboz@aol.com
B. Other Advocacy/Self-Help Groups:
CITIZENS FOR RESTORATIVE JUSTICE. Thur. Sept 7 at the Family Partnership building at 29 North Hamilton Street in Poughkeepsie. Deb at 845-616-9698 or dabboz@aol.com
COALITION OF FAMILIES OF NYS LIFERS: Any family member or friend of a prisoner with life at the end of their sentence is invited to contact the Coalition of Families of New York State Lifers, PO Box 1314, Wappinger Falls, New York 12590 or liferfamilies@yahoo.com
. If you know anyone who is a family member or friend of a prisoner, please encourage them to write.
SURVIVING THE CITY: A support group for formerly incarcerated people in Albany - Sept 9 and 23 and every 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month - 11:30 am
176 Sheridan Ave, at the Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless Bldg.
Together, we're working to advance ourselves far beyond the walls that incarcerate us!!!
All formerly incarcerated individuals are welcome to come and share their hopes, inspirations, and experiences.
Call Nathan at 518 368 3480 for more information.
"PRISONERS ARE PEOPLE TOO!" will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, September 25, 2006 at the Pratt Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt Street in Buffalo, NY, from 6:30-9:00 pm. Programs feature a documentary film on some prison-related issue, guest speakers and a follow-up discussion. The final 30 minutes offers some time for networking, community building, action organizing and camaraderie. Light refreshments are always provided. This program is sponsored by "The Circle of Supporters for Reformed Offenders" and "Friends of Baba Eng." For more information, call Karima Amin 716-834-8438.
"THE CONTINUUM OF CRIMINAL INJUSTICE," is scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 28, 2006 at the Pratt Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt Street in Buffalo, NY, from 6:00-9:00pm. The goal of the symposium is to take "an insightful look at the death sentence, wrongful arrests and convictions, excessive charges, and wrongful sentences." The keynote speaker will be David Kaczynski, director of New Yorkers Against the Death Penalty. Featured presenters include: William Babbitt, board member of Murder Victims' Families for Human Rights; John Walker, who served 23 years for a crime he didn't commit, and who is now on lifetime parole; Gary Beamon, who spent time on death row for a crime for which he was later acquitted; and Evangelist Nora Massey, mother of Terrol Massey, who was recently found guilty of murder, a crime he allegedly committed at age 16. This program is being sponsored by the Community Action Organization, the Buffalo Local Action Committee, and Prisoners Are People Too! For more information, call Linda Williams at 716-881-5150, ext. 4410.
7. PRISON RADIO PROGRAMS
VOICES FROM THE PRISON ACTION NETWORK will be heard at 5:00pm on Tuesdays at WRPI Troy, 91.5 FM, until Sept 18, and probably at a new time after that, more than likely in the early morning . For those outside broadcast range, you can listen live at www.wrpi.org. Voices from the Prison Action Network is part of the Indymedia Radio Program which currently starts at 3 and ends at 6. Preceding Indymedia Radio, from 12-2 on Tuesdays, you can hear Wild Style Breaks hosted by DJ Sho' Nuf. Democracy Now! is also heard on WRPI Troy, every day at 9am.
THE FANCY BROCCOLI SHOW airs on somewhat alternate Sundays from 3 - 6pm on Independent Radio WVKR 91.3 FM, Poughkeepsie NY. WVKR streams online - go to www.live365.comand search for WVKR.
ON THE COUNT! WBAI 99.5 FM - Pacifica Radio in NYC 10:30 a.m.-12:00 N Saturdays
8. SEEKING CASES OF ROCKEFELLER DRUG LAW ABUSES:
This is from a letter sent to Joe Rudd, who forwarded it to Building Bridges:
My name is Michael Silverstein and I work for the NYC Bar Association. We’re a public interest organization engaged in public interest advocacy in Albany, including reform of the Rockefeller drug laws.
We are working to put together a portfolio of cases that show a pattern of people being unfairly treated by the Rockefeller drug laws; cases that highlight the injustice of its extreme sentences that are not helped by existing reforms. If you could describe any cases that you know of, or could point me in the direction of people who may be able to help further, please let me know.
It’s always a long road to reform in Albany, but we can make progress on this issue. I thank you greatly for whatever assistance you may be able to provide.
Please write to me at: Michael Silverstein, msilverstein@nycbar.org
or 42 W 44th St., Third Floor, NY NY 10036.
9. SHERRY BABY. A FILM ABOUT REENTRY
From the movie’s website: Three years after entering prison for robbery as a 19-year-old heroin addict, Sherry Swanson (Maggie Gyllenhaal) begins her first day of freedom, clean and sober. A model prisoner who has undergone personal transformation, she immediately sets out to regain custody of her young daughter Alexis (Ryan Simpkins), who has been cared for in her absence by her brother Bobby (Brad Henke) and his wife Lynn (Bridget Barkan).
Unprepared for the demands of the world she's stepped back into, Sherry's hopes of staying clean, getting a job, and becoming a responsible mother are challenged by the realities of unemployment, halfway houses, and parole restrictions. Bobby and Lynn's concerns about Sherry's ability to care for Alexis, and her inability to prove them wrong, threaten to destroy the already delicate relationship she has with her daughter, as well as her newfound sobriety.
Disillusioned and haunted by wounds from her childhood, Sherry is eventually confronted with life-altering questions about her own survival and what it means to be a good mother. Ultimately she learns that as the harsh realities of life often get in the way of her best intentions, sometimes it's best to take life one small step at a time.
It’s opening at the Landmark in NYC on September 8th. If you see it and would like to write a review, we’d be glad to publish it.
You can see the trailer at: www.sherrybaby-film/
10. SHU BILL VETOED BY PATAKI:
Alternatives to Solitary Confinement for Incarcerated Individuals with Severe Mental Illness
A.3926/S.2207
New York State Assembly Member Jeffrion Aubrey D-Queens, and Senator Nozzolio introduced A.3926/S.2207, making it illegal to place people with psychiatric disabilities in SHUs, and creating alternative therapeutic housing areas for people with psychiatric disabilities who are having difficulties functioning in prison. It provides for the creation of psychiatric correctional facilities and transitional services programs for state prison inmates with severe mental illness. This legislation would also provide for psychiatric correctional facilities to be jointly operated by the Department of Corrections and the Office of Mental Health.
06/23/06: PASSED SENATE, 08/04/06: Delivered to governor, 8/17/06: VETOED by Pataki
"In all, Pataki vetoed more than 70 bills on Thursday, many of them passed overwhelmingly in the Republican-controlled Senate and Democrat-controlled Assembly. That raises the possibility that the chambers could override some or all of the vetoes with a two-thirds vote in each chamber in special sessions this fall." Michael Gormley, Associated Press August 17, 2006
PATAKI'S NO-CARE PACKAGE GOV'S MOVE WILL KEEP MENTALLY ILL INMATES IN SOLITARY AND IS SURE TO END MORE LIVES by Errol Louis New York Daily News August 18, 2006: ....It looks like Gov. Pataki won't be running for President as a compassionate conservative. A few days after hobnobbing with potential voters at the Iowa State Fair - a well-known early stop for White House hopefuls - Pataki flew back home and this week vetoed a bill, overwhelmingly approved by the New York State Legislature, that would ban state prisons from putting mentally ill inmates in solitary confinement.
EFFORT TO BAN SOLITARY FOR MENTALLY ILL PRISONERS FAILS by MICHAEL GORMLEY Associated Press Writer August 17, 2006 ALBANY, N.Y. .... A bill that would have banned solitary confinement for dangerous mentally ill prisoners was vetoed Thursday by Gov. George Pataki. In his veto message, Pataki said prisons need to be able to impose disciplinary segregation to protect inmates and staff "from those who are unwilling to adhere to even the most minimum levels of civilized behavior." ... "While we work to ensure that prison inmates receive appropriate mental health services, we must do so in a way that is consistent with our obligation to ensure the continued preservation of the safety, security and order of the state's correctional facilities," Pataki said.
PATAKI VETOES PRISON BILL REGARDING MENTALLY ILL INMATES By: John Milgrim Ottaway News Service August 18, 2006 ALBANY- “Gov. George Pataki vetoed legislation meant to end the placement of mentally ill prison inmates into solitary confinement and to provide them with new treatment facilities....’It's a bitter disappointment,’ said Harvey Rosenthal, executive director of the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services. ‘He (Pataki) missed a great opportunity to make New York state a national leader. It's a terrible thing.’....’Besides being inhumane, placing a mentally ill inmate in solitary confinement makes a bad situation worse,’ said state Sen. Velmanette Montgomery, D-Brooklyn. ‘It creates prisoners who are more disruptive, more disturbed and more likely to hurt themselves or others.’ ...It could not be determined Thursday whether the Legislature planned to override the veto. “[emphasis added]
11. TELEPHONE JUSTICE
Every week on Wednesday encourage everyone you know to call Governor Pataki (212) 681-4580 or (518) 474-8390 and Verizon (800) 621-9900 from 8 am to 5 pm weekdays to say "I’m calling in support of the NY Campaign for Telephone Justice to ask that you put an end to the prison phone contract between Verizon/MCI and DOCS."
The New York Campaign for Telephone Justice is a project of the Center for Constitutional Rights, Prison Families Community Forum and Prison Families of NY, Inc. Each year, New York State receives 57.5% of Verizon/MCI’s prison telephone profits in the form of commissions, which the state uses to fund basic prisoner services such as health care. Each year, these commissions equal more than $20 million from the pockets of our families. Through lawsuits, legislative reform, public education and grassroots organizing, the campaign works to mobilize opposition against this foul partnership between Verizon/MCI and the New York State Department of Corrections (NYDOCS) that collects millions of dollars in profits each year from families maintaining telephone contact with their loved ones in prison by charging them 630% more than the average consumer ($3.00 connection fee and $0.16 per minute). The NY Campaign for Telephone Justice brings this injustice to the attention of the broader public through a range of media, events, legislative advocacy and direct actions. With families in the forefront, help from you to get the word out and by continuing to apply public pressure, we CAN achieve the reform that is so urgently needed to end the existing Verizon/MCI contract and to ensure proper oversight of future telephone service contracts in the prison system. If you are as outraged as I am -- I urge you to take action.
In solidarity and struggle, Marion Rodriguez, Organizer, NY Campaign for Telephone Justice
12. TRANSPORTATION TO PRISONS
A. PRISON ACTION NETWORK AND THE SRC JUSTICE COMMITTEE WILL MEET DOCS FREE BUS at the Albany bus terminal, 5:15AM on Saturday morning September 9. The bus will be traveling to Green Haven and Fishkill, and if needed to Mid-State. We will meet on Friday afternoon [Sept. 8] to prepare packets. Please call 518 253-7533 for location.
B. THE SRC JUSTICE COMMITTEE OFFERS RIDES: CALL 518 253-7533 IF YOU NEED A RIDE FROM ALBANY TO VISIT YOUR INCARCERATED LOVED ONE [there is no charge for this service]. Drivers are available only on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
C. THE NEST PRISON SHUTTLE leaves Oakwood Ave Presbyt. Church parking lot, Troy, at 7 AM, and Albany Greyhound Bus station at 7:15 AM: Mt. McGregor, Washington, and Great Meadow Facilities on Sat, Sept 2 ($30 adults, $20 children), Coxsackie, Greene, Hudson Facilities, Sat, Sept. 9 and Sat, Sept. 23 ($15 adults and $10 children). Trip to the Utica Hub (Midstate, Marcy, Mohawk, Oneida) Sat, Sept. 16 leaving Troy at 5 AM ($40 adults, $25 children). Call for reservations and information: Linda O'Malley 518- 273-5199.
D. RIDE BOARD - If you would like to share a ride to the prison where you visit, please send us a note with where to, where from, and your contact info. We'll post it here. Here are the first requests:
To Bedford Hills from Albany - Qasim - freeb2beme@yahoo.com
To Gt. Meadow from Albany - Qasim - freeb2beme@yahoo.com
To Malone (Franklin C.F.) from NYC - Safiya Bandele - ibnk@aol.com
To Otisville from Albany - 9/3, lv’g 7am - Judith - 518 482 2029
To Sullivan from Albany - N. Johnson - 518 472 0217
FAMILY EMPOWERMENT DAY 2
October 21, 2006, 11 am - 3:00 pm
Enter at 50 East 7th Street (near Second Avenue, Manhattan)
Middle Collegiate Church
SOCIAL JUSTICE AND PAROLE REFORM
Family Empowerment Day 2 will be an event where families and supporters can meet one another to discuss ways to make things better for ourselves and our incarcerated loved ones.
AGENDA: KEYNOTE SPEECHES, DISCUSSION GROUPS, NETWORKING, REFRESHMENTS, INFORMATION TABLES, PETITIONS, LETTER WRITING
WE HAVE A WONDERFUL SLATE OF SPEAKERS AND DISCUSSION LEADERS!:
Karima Amin, Dir. “Prisoners Are People Too!”, educator, storyteller, community organizer
Safiya Bandele, Director, Women's Center, Medgar Evers College CUNY, Performance artist
Deb Bozydaj, Mother of a Lifer
Mark Chapman, Chair of African and African-American Studies At Fordham Univ. and Adjunct Professor of Theology and Ethics in the NYTS MPS Program at Sing Sing
Robert Isseks, Esq., Lead Attorney in the pending class action suit against Parole
Cheryl L. Kates, Esq., Dir. “Edge of Justice”, private attorney
Willie Thomas, 29+ yrs a prisoner,denied parole 7X
Stacey Thompson, CWP Outreach Coordinator
Rima Vesely-Flad, Dir. “ICARE” (Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Re-entry and Employment).
DISCUSSION GROUPS:
Successful Organizing (Karima Amin),
Re-Entry Issues for Mothers and Wives (Safiya Bandele),
Special Needs of Lifers’ Families (Deb Bozydaj),
Prison Education (Mark Chapman),
Legal Tactics (Robert N. Isseks, Esq.),
Parole Appeals (Cheryl L. Kates, Esq.),
Parole Board Hearings (Willie Thomas, M.A.)
Leadership Development (Stacey Thompson),
Legislative Advocacy (Rima Vesely-Flad)
For more information or to volunteer your help, please email prisonaction@hotmail.com or call:
Western NY: 716-834-8438
Capital District: 518 253-7533
Poughkeepsie Area: 845 616-9698
Be There to Show You Care!
REMEMBER: OUR DISENFRANCHISED LOVED ONES IN PRISON NEED US TO DO 2 THINGS FOR THEM:
1. VOTE!
[If you have never registered or you have moved since you last voted, you will need to fill out a voter registration form and mail it before October 13, or hand deliver it to a Board of Elections by October 18. To be eligible to vote, you must be a US citizen and not serving a sentence for a felony, or on parole. People on probation ARE entitled to vote, as is anyone who has been discharged from parole. - Election Law 5-106.]
2. ATTEND FAMILY EMPOWERMENT DAY 2!
LATE BREAKING NEWS:
NEW YORK STATE GOVERNOR PATAKI PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 29, 2006
GOVERNOR PATAKI NAMES LECLAIRE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES ACTING COMMISSIONER
Governor George E. Pataki has named Deputy Commissioner for Correctional Facilities Lucien J. Leclaire, Jr. as Acting Commissioner. Mr. Leclaire will replace Commissioner Glenn S. Goord, who is retiring after 32 years of service.
“I’m proud of the work accomplished with Glenn Goord at the helm of our correctional facilities,” Governor Pataki said. “Mr. Goord’s service has resulted in the creation, implementation and oversight of some of the Department's best innovations and improvements: including the Shock Incarceration Program and ensuring each prison meets nationally-accepted standards, operating at the safest level in 25 years.”
“I'm confident that Lucien Leclaire, Jr. will ensure that New York State’s prisons will continue to maintain the highest of standards that has been this systems’ hallmark for the past 11 years. His vast experience as a member of the Department for close to 30 years demonstrates that he can oversee and manage the 31,500 employees and 63,400 inmates held at our 69 state correctional facilities.”
Mr. Leclaire began his career with the Department as a Correction Officer in March 1977. He rose through the security ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain at various facilities until September of 1994 when he was appointed Director of Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT) operations. In April of 1998, Mr. Leclaire was promoted to Assistant Commissioner for Facility Operations followed by his appointment to his current position of Deputy Commissioner for Correctional Facilities on April 15, 1999.
Glenn S. Goord, who began as a prison drug counselor and worked to become Commissioner of the New York State Department of Correctional Services - the fourth largest state prison system in the nation - will retire effective August 30, 2006. Mr. Goord's commitment to security contributes to the fact that inmate-on-staff and inmate-on-inmate assaults in recent years were the fewest in nearly a quarter-century. In 1997, Mr. Goord’s outstanding contributions to furthering excellence in corrections has earned him many awards, including the E.R. Cass Award, the highest honor bestowed by the American Correctional Association (ACA).
I don’t know about you, but I’m getting very excited! Change is in the air. Family Empowerment Day 2 is gathering momentum. Parole Chairman Dennison is telling all at Beacon; the Class Action Lawsuit against Parole is going into Discovery; Courts are ruling against parole decisions; Pataki is on his way out and a new Governor (hopefully with fresh ideas) is coming in. It’s up to us to send a loud, clear, unwavering message at FED2, where media, advocates and politicians will be in attendance. It looks like we’re going to have a huge crowd, so get there early to be sure you get a seat. The Coalition has lined up some truly amazing people to talk to us about what they’ve accomplished and to help us get involved in the movement toward Justice. [See next to last article for details.] Parole is the main issue, but the most important thing is learning how to work together to create the changes that we all want. United we stand, divided we fall. We cannot let ourselves be divided. We must come together to work for what will improve life for all of us. If you’re reading this from your prison cell, encourage your loved ones to skip their visit on Sat 10/21 and attend Family Empowerment Day 2 instead. If you’re reading this from home, your loved one needs you to be out here working to improve conditions for him or her. We’ll have a great day together! This is a chance to give hope a chance, and to be renewed in the struggle for justice and freedom.
Articles:
1. ALBANY VIGILS FOR THE VICTIMS OF PRISON ABUSE - “Those now incarcerated will one day be released and will need to readjust and contribute to our communities.” Show that you care.
2. CHURCH TO PRISON PROJECT - “thanks to you who wrote in response to the article last month”
3. FEDERAL PAROLE BILL H.R.3072 - Support the restoration of federal parole.
4. FROM INSIDE (WILLIAM CLANTON, DENIS MARVIN) - WC: “As much as I am in agreement with Chief Judge Judith Kaye’s Commission on the Future of Indigent Defense Services, I must ponder on the sincerity of the recommendations.”, DM: “I am a 61 year old man serving a 25 years to life sentence... a story changed my life.”
5. HOW TO GET SECTION 8 OR PUBLIC HOUSING, EVEN WITH A CRIMINAL RECORD - “This guide tells people how they can get into Section 8 and public housing even if they – or someone in their household – has a criminal record or is in recovery from a drug or alcohol problem.”
6. MEETINGS - for those recently released, on parole, or with an incarcerated loved one; in Albany, Poughkeepsie, Buffalo.
7. PRISON RADIO PROGRAMS - Hudson River communities have 3 to choose from.
8. SEEKING CASES OF ROCKEFELLER DRUG LAW ABUSES - “The NYC Bar Association is working to put together a portfolio of cases that show a pattern of people being unfairly treated by the Rockefeller drug laws”
9. SHERRY BABY. A FILM ABOUT REENTRY - “Three years after entering prison for robbery as a 19-year-old heroin addict, Sherry Swanson (Maggie Gyllenhaal) begins her first day of freedom, clean and sober.”
10. SHU BILL VETOED BY PATAKI - Headlines from around the State.
11. TELEPHONE JUSTICE CAMPAIGN - “With families in the forefront, we CAN achieve the reform that is so urgently needed to end the existing Verizon/MCI contract and to ensure proper oversight of future telephone service contracts in the prison system.”
12. TRANSPORTATION TO PRISONS - Find a ride: NEST Shuttle, Free Rides, Ride Board [NEW this month; find a ride or give one].or support those riding the DOCS free bus.
Last: FAMILY EMPOWERMENT DAY 2 - “WE HAVE A WONDERFUL SLATE OF SPEAKERS AND DISCUSSION LEADERS!:”
LATE BREAKING NEWS: PATAKI APPOINTS ACTING DOCS COMMISSIONER
1. ALBANY VIGILS FOR THE VICTIMS OF PRISON ABUSE
1. Every Monday at 12 noon, State Street at the entrance to the Legislative Building
2. Every Tuesday at 5:30pm, corner of Washington Avenue and Lark Street
Those now incarcerated will one day be released and will need to readjust and contribute to our communities. Show that you care. Join us. For information call 518 727 4335 or 917 656 8046 or email, courtney920@hotmail.com
2. CHURCH TO PRISON PROJECT
The Justice Committee of FUUSA thanks those who wrote in response to the article last month describing their project to match NYS UU churches with persons incarcerated in NYS to engage in an issues-focused correspondence. The group will be reviewing those letters at their next meeting on Sept 17, as they begin their new season of work on the project.
3. FEDERAL PAROLE BILL H.R.3072
Would restore parole for federal prisoners.
For details of the bill, or for petition, visit www.fedcure.org, or write to FedCURE Plantation, Florida 33318-5667
4. FROM INSIDE (WILLIAM CLANTON, MARVIN DENIS)
Greetings to the Prison Action Network:
My prayers and condolences for the loss of Ms. Janet Elizabeth Lippincott Lugo. Anyone who sacrifices as she did deserves to be acknowledged and remembered. I’d like to find out how I can purchase the book she was co-author of. [“Instead of Prisons: A Handbook for Abolitionists (1976)” can be ordered from: PREAP, 3049 East Genesee Street , Syracuse, New York 13224 , Single copy ..$6.50 + $.50 postage & handling (Enclose payment for single orders) Ed.]
As much as I am in agreement with Chief Judge Judith Kaye’s Commission on the Future of Indigent Defense Services, I must ponder on the sincerity of the recommendations. Its findings are obvious as thousands of men and women have and remain to suffer from the very poor representation they received. Perhaps something should be done for those of us who have already suffered the ramifications of this injustice.
Not in any way to down play this issue of legal representation reform but let’s bear in mind the many politics surrounding some of the recent issues arising. If addressing the injustices is truly an issue then let’s begin in the many impoverished areas where minorities are being disproportionately targeted and sent to prison, by creating more jobs, and giving children in city schools equal education. Let’s not wait until they need equal and quality legal representation!
A few months ago I wrote that prisoners here in Coxsackie were trying to start a program called . C.H.I.S.E.L., an empowerment program to deal with emotional, psychological and spiritual aspects of being in prison and returning back into society. According to the administration here we are in need of support from an outside organization. I humbly request the help of established organizations on the outside to assist in this needed endeavor which will address the impact of incarceration. Please send all letters to me at Coxsackie C.F., PO Box 999, Coxsackie NY 12051.
Sincerely, William Clanton 03A4400
This I Believe:
I am a 61 year old man serving a 25 years to life sentence in a NYS prison. As a result, I have lost my wife, children, home and the comforts that 38 years of hard work enabled me to accumulate. Awakening each day I found myself mired in a swamp of dysfunction and violence that typifies life in a maximum security prison. As my world constricted around me, it suffocated my desire to go on living. There was no way I was going to survive until age 82 and my first parole board hearing. I felt like I had been thrown away and had been buried in a deep hole.
In our lives, if we are truly lucky, our soul is touched by another very special soul. For me that person has been my wife, Hohdel, whose support sustained me. She saw what was happening and sent me a copy of a story that has changed my life.
It was about a farmer whose old donkey had fallen into an abandoned well in a field. After locating the animal, the farmer decided that the well was too deep and the animal was not worth saving. He called his neighbors who all came with their shovels to help fill in the hole. As they started shoveling, the dirt rained down on the donkey and it kicked and brayed loudly in protest to being buried. I felt just like that donkey as the miseries of prison life rained down on me.
Then something strange happened. It became quiet at the bottom of the well. The farmer glanced over the edge and there was the donkey just standing there. As the dirt rained down on its back to bury him, he would shake it off his back and step up; shake it off his back and step up. As the well filled in, he got closer and closer to the top until he was able to step out and walk away.
What I believe is that I can be just like that donkey. If I kept shaking off the horrors associated with my prison environment, I too can step up and someday walk away. The same method that works everywhere else will work for me in prison. To accomplish this, I have surrounded myself with positive people. Yes! There are positive people even in prison and they reside in a self help, inmate run program called Network at the Clinton Correctional Facility Annex in upstate NY.
We voluntarily meet every day of the year for up to six hours to develop and practice new attitudes and behaviors needed to replace the ones that lead us to come to prison. Our programs deal with such things as decision making, overcoming all types of addiction, living a life without violence, learning to be assertive, and mastering parenting skills.
I’ve learned that prison doesn’t have to be a grave for my any more than it was for that donkey.
---Marvin Denis, 99B2409
5. HOW TO GET SECTION 8 OR PUBLIC HOUSING, EVEN WITH A CRIMINAL RECORD
From the Legal Action Center: A Guide for New York City Housing Authority Applicants and their Advocates
This guide tells people in New York City how they can get into Section 8 and public housing even if they – or someone in their household – has a criminal record or is in recovery from a drug or alcohol problem. It contains:
• New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) admissions policies for people with criminal records and recent illegal drug use,
• an explanation of the NYCHA appeals process,
• step-by-step suggestions for how to gather the evidence of rehabilitation necessary to gain housing, and
• sample letters of reference – the type that have proven useful in convincing housing authorities to admit people with criminal records and/or drug histories.
Though the manual focuses on New York City Housing Authority policies, its chapter on How Can You Win Your Hearing? can help people applying to any local housing authority. Its thorough advice for how to marshal evidence of rehabilitation applies equally to housing, employment, or occupational licenses.
This guide is a must-have for case workers, social workers, counselors, paralegals, and others who are helping individuals with criminal records and/or drug histories access public housing.
Go to the Center’s web site, www.lac.org, then click “ publications,” then "free publications" then “criminal justice”, and scroll down to the name of the guide) to download a free copy of the guide. If you can’t do that, Building Bridges will do it for you, but we’ll have to charge you $10. for printing and postage (it’s 80 pages long...)
Also note that through the Legal Action Center’s partnership with the major law firm, Debevoise & Plimpton, the Center can get legal representation for some individuals who have been denied public housing or Section 8 due to a criminal record or drug history. To see if you are eligible for assistance, call the Center at (212) 243-1313 on Tuesdays and Fridays and ask to speak with a paralegal. The Center has additional funding for individuals with HIV, so if you (or your client) is HIV positive, you can mention that and speak to a paralegal any day of the week.
Visit Legal Action Center’s web sites: www.lac.org, www.hirenetwork.org
Legal Action Center
225 Varick Street New York, New York 10014
Phone: 212-243-1313 Fax: 212-675-0286
E-mail: lacinfo@lac.org
6. MEETINGS:
A. Prison Families of New York groups:
ALBANY
7-8:30 pm every Monday at The Womens Bldg. 79 Central Ave, Albany. Ring the bell for the library and lounge to get in. Alison at 518 453 6659.
POUGHKEEPSIE
7 - 8:30 pm Monday Sept 11 and Sept 25 at the Family Partnership Building 29 North Hamilton Street. Deb at 845-616-9698, dabboz@aol.com
B. Other Advocacy/Self-Help Groups:
CITIZENS FOR RESTORATIVE JUSTICE. Thur. Sept 7 at the Family Partnership building at 29 North Hamilton Street in Poughkeepsie. Deb at 845-616-9698 or dabboz@aol.com
COALITION OF FAMILIES OF NYS LIFERS: Any family member or friend of a prisoner with life at the end of their sentence is invited to contact the Coalition of Families of New York State Lifers, PO Box 1314, Wappinger Falls, New York 12590 or liferfamilies@yahoo.com
. If you know anyone who is a family member or friend of a prisoner, please encourage them to write.
SURVIVING THE CITY: A support group for formerly incarcerated people in Albany - Sept 9 and 23 and every 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month - 11:30 am
176 Sheridan Ave, at the Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless Bldg.
Together, we're working to advance ourselves far beyond the walls that incarcerate us!!!
All formerly incarcerated individuals are welcome to come and share their hopes, inspirations, and experiences.
Call Nathan at 518 368 3480 for more information.
"PRISONERS ARE PEOPLE TOO!" will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, September 25, 2006 at the Pratt Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt Street in Buffalo, NY, from 6:30-9:00 pm. Programs feature a documentary film on some prison-related issue, guest speakers and a follow-up discussion. The final 30 minutes offers some time for networking, community building, action organizing and camaraderie. Light refreshments are always provided. This program is sponsored by "The Circle of Supporters for Reformed Offenders" and "Friends of Baba Eng." For more information, call Karima Amin 716-834-8438.
"THE CONTINUUM OF CRIMINAL INJUSTICE," is scheduled to take place on Thursday, September 28, 2006 at the Pratt Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt Street in Buffalo, NY, from 6:00-9:00pm. The goal of the symposium is to take "an insightful look at the death sentence, wrongful arrests and convictions, excessive charges, and wrongful sentences." The keynote speaker will be David Kaczynski, director of New Yorkers Against the Death Penalty. Featured presenters include: William Babbitt, board member of Murder Victims' Families for Human Rights; John Walker, who served 23 years for a crime he didn't commit, and who is now on lifetime parole; Gary Beamon, who spent time on death row for a crime for which he was later acquitted; and Evangelist Nora Massey, mother of Terrol Massey, who was recently found guilty of murder, a crime he allegedly committed at age 16. This program is being sponsored by the Community Action Organization, the Buffalo Local Action Committee, and Prisoners Are People Too! For more information, call Linda Williams at 716-881-5150, ext. 4410.
7. PRISON RADIO PROGRAMS
VOICES FROM THE PRISON ACTION NETWORK will be heard at 5:00pm on Tuesdays at WRPI Troy, 91.5 FM, until Sept 18, and probably at a new time after that, more than likely in the early morning . For those outside broadcast range, you can listen live at www.wrpi.org. Voices from the Prison Action Network is part of the Indymedia Radio Program which currently starts at 3 and ends at 6. Preceding Indymedia Radio, from 12-2 on Tuesdays, you can hear Wild Style Breaks hosted by DJ Sho' Nuf. Democracy Now! is also heard on WRPI Troy, every day at 9am.
THE FANCY BROCCOLI SHOW airs on somewhat alternate Sundays from 3 - 6pm on Independent Radio WVKR 91.3 FM, Poughkeepsie NY. WVKR streams online - go to www.live365.comand search for WVKR.
ON THE COUNT! WBAI 99.5 FM - Pacifica Radio in NYC 10:30 a.m.-12:00 N Saturdays
8. SEEKING CASES OF ROCKEFELLER DRUG LAW ABUSES:
This is from a letter sent to Joe Rudd, who forwarded it to Building Bridges:
My name is Michael Silverstein and I work for the NYC Bar Association. We’re a public interest organization engaged in public interest advocacy in Albany, including reform of the Rockefeller drug laws.
We are working to put together a portfolio of cases that show a pattern of people being unfairly treated by the Rockefeller drug laws; cases that highlight the injustice of its extreme sentences that are not helped by existing reforms. If you could describe any cases that you know of, or could point me in the direction of people who may be able to help further, please let me know.
It’s always a long road to reform in Albany, but we can make progress on this issue. I thank you greatly for whatever assistance you may be able to provide.
Please write to me at: Michael Silverstein, msilverstein@nycbar.org
or 42 W 44th St., Third Floor, NY NY 10036.
9. SHERRY BABY. A FILM ABOUT REENTRY
From the movie’s website: Three years after entering prison for robbery as a 19-year-old heroin addict, Sherry Swanson (Maggie Gyllenhaal) begins her first day of freedom, clean and sober. A model prisoner who has undergone personal transformation, she immediately sets out to regain custody of her young daughter Alexis (Ryan Simpkins), who has been cared for in her absence by her brother Bobby (Brad Henke) and his wife Lynn (Bridget Barkan).
Unprepared for the demands of the world she's stepped back into, Sherry's hopes of staying clean, getting a job, and becoming a responsible mother are challenged by the realities of unemployment, halfway houses, and parole restrictions. Bobby and Lynn's concerns about Sherry's ability to care for Alexis, and her inability to prove them wrong, threaten to destroy the already delicate relationship she has with her daughter, as well as her newfound sobriety.
Disillusioned and haunted by wounds from her childhood, Sherry is eventually confronted with life-altering questions about her own survival and what it means to be a good mother. Ultimately she learns that as the harsh realities of life often get in the way of her best intentions, sometimes it's best to take life one small step at a time.
It’s opening at the Landmark in NYC on September 8th. If you see it and would like to write a review, we’d be glad to publish it.
You can see the trailer at: www.sherrybaby-film/
10. SHU BILL VETOED BY PATAKI:
Alternatives to Solitary Confinement for Incarcerated Individuals with Severe Mental Illness
A.3926/S.2207
New York State Assembly Member Jeffrion Aubrey D-Queens, and Senator Nozzolio introduced A.3926/S.2207, making it illegal to place people with psychiatric disabilities in SHUs, and creating alternative therapeutic housing areas for people with psychiatric disabilities who are having difficulties functioning in prison. It provides for the creation of psychiatric correctional facilities and transitional services programs for state prison inmates with severe mental illness. This legislation would also provide for psychiatric correctional facilities to be jointly operated by the Department of Corrections and the Office of Mental Health.
06/23/06: PASSED SENATE, 08/04/06: Delivered to governor, 8/17/06: VETOED by Pataki
"In all, Pataki vetoed more than 70 bills on Thursday, many of them passed overwhelmingly in the Republican-controlled Senate and Democrat-controlled Assembly. That raises the possibility that the chambers could override some or all of the vetoes with a two-thirds vote in each chamber in special sessions this fall." Michael Gormley, Associated Press August 17, 2006
PATAKI'S NO-CARE PACKAGE GOV'S MOVE WILL KEEP MENTALLY ILL INMATES IN SOLITARY AND IS SURE TO END MORE LIVES by Errol Louis New York Daily News August 18, 2006: ....It looks like Gov. Pataki won't be running for President as a compassionate conservative. A few days after hobnobbing with potential voters at the Iowa State Fair - a well-known early stop for White House hopefuls - Pataki flew back home and this week vetoed a bill, overwhelmingly approved by the New York State Legislature, that would ban state prisons from putting mentally ill inmates in solitary confinement.
EFFORT TO BAN SOLITARY FOR MENTALLY ILL PRISONERS FAILS by MICHAEL GORMLEY Associated Press Writer August 17, 2006 ALBANY, N.Y. .... A bill that would have banned solitary confinement for dangerous mentally ill prisoners was vetoed Thursday by Gov. George Pataki. In his veto message, Pataki said prisons need to be able to impose disciplinary segregation to protect inmates and staff "from those who are unwilling to adhere to even the most minimum levels of civilized behavior." ... "While we work to ensure that prison inmates receive appropriate mental health services, we must do so in a way that is consistent with our obligation to ensure the continued preservation of the safety, security and order of the state's correctional facilities," Pataki said.
PATAKI VETOES PRISON BILL REGARDING MENTALLY ILL INMATES By: John Milgrim Ottaway News Service August 18, 2006 ALBANY- “Gov. George Pataki vetoed legislation meant to end the placement of mentally ill prison inmates into solitary confinement and to provide them with new treatment facilities....’It's a bitter disappointment,’ said Harvey Rosenthal, executive director of the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services. ‘He (Pataki) missed a great opportunity to make New York state a national leader. It's a terrible thing.’....’Besides being inhumane, placing a mentally ill inmate in solitary confinement makes a bad situation worse,’ said state Sen. Velmanette Montgomery, D-Brooklyn. ‘It creates prisoners who are more disruptive, more disturbed and more likely to hurt themselves or others.’ ...It could not be determined Thursday whether the Legislature planned to override the veto. “[emphasis added]
11. TELEPHONE JUSTICE
Every week on Wednesday encourage everyone you know to call Governor Pataki (212) 681-4580 or (518) 474-8390 and Verizon (800) 621-9900 from 8 am to 5 pm weekdays to say "I’m calling in support of the NY Campaign for Telephone Justice to ask that you put an end to the prison phone contract between Verizon/MCI and DOCS."
The New York Campaign for Telephone Justice is a project of the Center for Constitutional Rights, Prison Families Community Forum and Prison Families of NY, Inc. Each year, New York State receives 57.5% of Verizon/MCI’s prison telephone profits in the form of commissions, which the state uses to fund basic prisoner services such as health care. Each year, these commissions equal more than $20 million from the pockets of our families. Through lawsuits, legislative reform, public education and grassroots organizing, the campaign works to mobilize opposition against this foul partnership between Verizon/MCI and the New York State Department of Corrections (NYDOCS) that collects millions of dollars in profits each year from families maintaining telephone contact with their loved ones in prison by charging them 630% more than the average consumer ($3.00 connection fee and $0.16 per minute). The NY Campaign for Telephone Justice brings this injustice to the attention of the broader public through a range of media, events, legislative advocacy and direct actions. With families in the forefront, help from you to get the word out and by continuing to apply public pressure, we CAN achieve the reform that is so urgently needed to end the existing Verizon/MCI contract and to ensure proper oversight of future telephone service contracts in the prison system. If you are as outraged as I am -- I urge you to take action.
In solidarity and struggle, Marion Rodriguez, Organizer, NY Campaign for Telephone Justice
12. TRANSPORTATION TO PRISONS
A. PRISON ACTION NETWORK AND THE SRC JUSTICE COMMITTEE WILL MEET DOCS FREE BUS at the Albany bus terminal, 5:15AM on Saturday morning September 9. The bus will be traveling to Green Haven and Fishkill, and if needed to Mid-State. We will meet on Friday afternoon [Sept. 8] to prepare packets. Please call 518 253-7533 for location.
B. THE SRC JUSTICE COMMITTEE OFFERS RIDES: CALL 518 253-7533 IF YOU NEED A RIDE FROM ALBANY TO VISIT YOUR INCARCERATED LOVED ONE [there is no charge for this service]. Drivers are available only on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
C. THE NEST PRISON SHUTTLE leaves Oakwood Ave Presbyt. Church parking lot, Troy, at 7 AM, and Albany Greyhound Bus station at 7:15 AM: Mt. McGregor, Washington, and Great Meadow Facilities on Sat, Sept 2 ($30 adults, $20 children), Coxsackie, Greene, Hudson Facilities, Sat, Sept. 9 and Sat, Sept. 23 ($15 adults and $10 children). Trip to the Utica Hub (Midstate, Marcy, Mohawk, Oneida) Sat, Sept. 16 leaving Troy at 5 AM ($40 adults, $25 children). Call for reservations and information: Linda O'Malley 518- 273-5199.
D. RIDE BOARD - If you would like to share a ride to the prison where you visit, please send us a note with where to, where from, and your contact info. We'll post it here. Here are the first requests:
To Bedford Hills from Albany - Qasim - freeb2beme@yahoo.com
To Gt. Meadow from Albany - Qasim - freeb2beme@yahoo.com
To Malone (Franklin C.F.) from NYC - Safiya Bandele - ibnk@aol.com
To Otisville from Albany - 9/3, lv’g 7am - Judith - 518 482 2029
To Sullivan from Albany - N. Johnson - 518 472 0217
FAMILY EMPOWERMENT DAY 2
October 21, 2006, 11 am - 3:00 pm
Enter at 50 East 7th Street (near Second Avenue, Manhattan)
Middle Collegiate Church
SOCIAL JUSTICE AND PAROLE REFORM
Family Empowerment Day 2 will be an event where families and supporters can meet one another to discuss ways to make things better for ourselves and our incarcerated loved ones.
AGENDA: KEYNOTE SPEECHES, DISCUSSION GROUPS, NETWORKING, REFRESHMENTS, INFORMATION TABLES, PETITIONS, LETTER WRITING
WE HAVE A WONDERFUL SLATE OF SPEAKERS AND DISCUSSION LEADERS!:
Karima Amin, Dir. “Prisoners Are People Too!”, educator, storyteller, community organizer
Safiya Bandele, Director, Women's Center, Medgar Evers College CUNY, Performance artist
Deb Bozydaj, Mother of a Lifer
Mark Chapman, Chair of African and African-American Studies At Fordham Univ. and Adjunct Professor of Theology and Ethics in the NYTS MPS Program at Sing Sing
Robert Isseks, Esq., Lead Attorney in the pending class action suit against Parole
Cheryl L. Kates, Esq., Dir. “Edge of Justice”, private attorney
Willie Thomas, 29+ yrs a prisoner,denied parole 7X
Stacey Thompson, CWP Outreach Coordinator
Rima Vesely-Flad, Dir. “ICARE” (Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Re-entry and Employment).
DISCUSSION GROUPS:
Successful Organizing (Karima Amin),
Re-Entry Issues for Mothers and Wives (Safiya Bandele),
Special Needs of Lifers’ Families (Deb Bozydaj),
Prison Education (Mark Chapman),
Legal Tactics (Robert N. Isseks, Esq.),
Parole Appeals (Cheryl L. Kates, Esq.),
Parole Board Hearings (Willie Thomas, M.A.)
Leadership Development (Stacey Thompson),
Legislative Advocacy (Rima Vesely-Flad)
For more information or to volunteer your help, please email prisonaction@hotmail.com or call:
Western NY: 716-834-8438
Capital District: 518 253-7533
Poughkeepsie Area: 845 616-9698
Be There to Show You Care!
REMEMBER: OUR DISENFRANCHISED LOVED ONES IN PRISON NEED US TO DO 2 THINGS FOR THEM:
1. VOTE!
[If you have never registered or you have moved since you last voted, you will need to fill out a voter registration form and mail it before October 13, or hand deliver it to a Board of Elections by October 18. To be eligible to vote, you must be a US citizen and not serving a sentence for a felony, or on parole. People on probation ARE entitled to vote, as is anyone who has been discharged from parole. - Election Law 5-106.]
2. ATTEND FAMILY EMPOWERMENT DAY 2!
LATE BREAKING NEWS:
NEW YORK STATE GOVERNOR PATAKI PRESS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 29, 2006
GOVERNOR PATAKI NAMES LECLAIRE DEPARTMENT OF CORRECTIONAL SERVICES ACTING COMMISSIONER
Governor George E. Pataki has named Deputy Commissioner for Correctional Facilities Lucien J. Leclaire, Jr. as Acting Commissioner. Mr. Leclaire will replace Commissioner Glenn S. Goord, who is retiring after 32 years of service.
“I’m proud of the work accomplished with Glenn Goord at the helm of our correctional facilities,” Governor Pataki said. “Mr. Goord’s service has resulted in the creation, implementation and oversight of some of the Department's best innovations and improvements: including the Shock Incarceration Program and ensuring each prison meets nationally-accepted standards, operating at the safest level in 25 years.”
“I'm confident that Lucien Leclaire, Jr. will ensure that New York State’s prisons will continue to maintain the highest of standards that has been this systems’ hallmark for the past 11 years. His vast experience as a member of the Department for close to 30 years demonstrates that he can oversee and manage the 31,500 employees and 63,400 inmates held at our 69 state correctional facilities.”
Mr. Leclaire began his career with the Department as a Correction Officer in March 1977. He rose through the security ranks of Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain at various facilities until September of 1994 when he was appointed Director of Correctional Emergency Response Team (CERT) operations. In April of 1998, Mr. Leclaire was promoted to Assistant Commissioner for Facility Operations followed by his appointment to his current position of Deputy Commissioner for Correctional Facilities on April 15, 1999.
Glenn S. Goord, who began as a prison drug counselor and worked to become Commissioner of the New York State Department of Correctional Services - the fourth largest state prison system in the nation - will retire effective August 30, 2006. Mr. Goord's commitment to security contributes to the fact that inmate-on-staff and inmate-on-inmate assaults in recent years were the fewest in nearly a quarter-century. In 1997, Mr. Goord’s outstanding contributions to furthering excellence in corrections has earned him many awards, including the E.R. Cass Award, the highest honor bestowed by the American Correctional Association (ACA).
Saturday, July 29, 2006
C.U.R.E. Justice Charter Updated
The Justice Charter has been updated. It contains 18 key steps to NYS criminal justice reform, along with rationales for each and savings estimates for some.
The Justice Charter can be found at the CURE-NY website, www.users.bestweb.net.
A limited number of hard copies of the Justice Charter can be obtained from CURE-NY.
A very limited number of CDs, containing a Power-Point presentation of the Justice Charter, can be obtained from CURE-NY by those able to make such a slideshow presentation to a least ten people.
The Justice Charter also contains: Chilling Facts Regarding Our Present System, A very troubling litany of problems in the U.S. and New York State criminal justice systems, and
Faith Communities Call for Justice, A measured indictment of NYS justice, grounded in the tenets of many faiths.
Please consider making good use of the Justice Charter, Rudy Cypser, cureny@bestweb.net
The Justice Charter can be found at the CURE-NY website, www.users.bestweb.net.
A limited number of hard copies of the Justice Charter can be obtained from CURE-NY.
A very limited number of CDs, containing a Power-Point presentation of the Justice Charter, can be obtained from CURE-NY by those able to make such a slideshow presentation to a least ten people.
The Justice Charter also contains: Chilling Facts Regarding Our Present System, A very troubling litany of problems in the U.S. and New York State criminal justice systems, and
Faith Communities Call for Justice, A measured indictment of NYS justice, grounded in the tenets of many faiths.
Please consider making good use of the Justice Charter, Rudy Cypser, cureny@bestweb.net
Saturday, July 01, 2006
July 2006 Edition
Dear Readers,
IF YOU HAVE A LOVED ONE WHO’S BEEN DENIED PAROLE, or is eligible for parole, or you care about the issue for some other reason, you’re invited to a meeting that is only a few months away. Family Empowerment Day 2 on Oct 21, which is described in Article 5 of this issue, is all about coming together to plan what we can do to end parole denials to community-ready individuals.
It’s exciting to learn about the growing interest in the event. The Coalition of Families and Community has heard from many people, and we know each one of them is also spreading the word. HOW MANY OF YOU ARE EXPECTING TO ATTEND? If you are, please let us know. If you’ve been inviting your friends and family to attend, please let us know how many have accepted the invitation, with their names and contact info if possible. The Coalition needs this information to be able to create an event that is pleasant as well as effective. Send the information to any of the following: prisonaction@hotmail.com; PAN, H-M IMC, PO Box 35, Troy NY 12181; in the Capital District: 518-253 7533; in the Buffalo area: 716-834-8438, in Poughkeepsie area: 845-616-9698.
Together we CAN make a difference!
Articles:
1. Additional Bills pass in State Legislature!
2. Buddhism Text Denied to Prisoner
3. Chairperson of Parole, Robert Dennison, Visits Beacon Prison
4. Convict Nation, by Silja J. A. Talvi
5. Family Empowerment Day 2 Updates
6. From the Inside: Jehan Abdur-Raheem, Chas Ransome
7. From Other Media: ‘Jail Jam’ OK, Pataki Appoints 7 to Parole Board
8. Legal Battle Won by Prison Legal News
9. Locked Down for More than a Lifetime - Seth Hayes
10. Meetings
11. Radio Programs
12. Transportation to Prisons
1. Additional Bills Pass in State Legislature
S7588/A10832, was signed into law by the governor on June 7, 2006! NYS penal law now reorients the focus of incarceration to promote reentry while an individual is being sentenced and is in prison, and the corrections law now clarifies the process for applicants seeking Certificates of Relief from Disabilities, thus enabling job seekers to find employment or gain occupational licenses more quickly. To look up the text of this bill, go to www.communityalternatives.org. Thanks to ICARE for all their work on this bill. For more information about ICARE, you can visit www.nyicare.org.
A11562 passed in the Assembly on June 21. It requires that both the Department of Correctional Services and the Division of Parole notify all persons who reach their maximum sentence of imprisonment about their right to vote in writing. The legislation also requires that in addition to notifying a person released from prison or discharged from parole about their right to vote, each such person be provided with a voter registration form together with information about the importance and mechanics of voting.
Finally, the legislation requires that the State Board of Elections be notified about all persons who are again eligible to vote because they have reached their maximum imprisonment date, been discharged from parole, conditional release, or presumptive release, or completed a period of post-release supervision. The State Board of Elections must then transmit this information to all local boards of elections.
S.5934-A/A.6179-A is now at the governor's office. The Senate and Assembly passed the licensing bill sponsored by Senator Velmanette Montgomery and Assemblymember Michael Benjamin that states that men and women who are trained to practice cosmetology and barbering in prison can no longer be denied a license simply because of their criminal conviction/s. Cosmetology training is offered to women incarcerated at Taconic, Bedford Hills and Albion Correctional Facilities. Barbering training is available to male inmates at Hudson, Green Haven, Auburn and Mid-State Correctional Facilities.
Senator Montgomery calls on criminal justice advocates statewide to join her in urging Governor PATAKI, ph: 518 474-8390, to sign this bill into law. PLEASE CALL THE GOVERNOR TO URGE HIS SUPPORT FOR BILL S.5934- A/A.6179-A!
SHU Bill
A bill to prohibit placing mentally ill inmates in solitary confinement passed the State Legislature. It now goes to Gov. George Pataki.
According to Paul Grondahl, Staff writer, Albany Times Union, in his Wednesday, June 28, 2006 column, [Sen. Michael Nozzolio, R-Seneca Falls, chairman of the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Corrections and sponsor of the bill]. “said the bill's unanimous passage in the Senate came about because it not only would offer more humane treatment for mentally ill prisoners placed in Special Housing Units (SHUs), also known as The Box, but would make prisons safer for correction officers, too. Support from the correction officer union and others representing prison employees was crucial, Nozzolio said.”
In that same article, Paul mentioned PFNY, an organization to which many of our readers belong: “’Two dozen women who are wives, sisters and mothers of prisoners praised passage of the bill at the fourth annual retreat of Prison Families of New York, held last week in Lake George’, the group's director said. ‘Their loved ones with mental illness were being criminalized, and they had no business being in the SHUs,’ Alison Coleman said.”
2. Access to Book on Zen Buddhism Denied
at Gowanda Correctional Facility, Gowanda, New York USA
by Kooi Fong Lim, The Buddhist Channel, June 5, 2006 - Excerpts from original article, posted at www.buddhistchannel.tv
Gowanda, New York (USA) -- A prisoner at the Gowanda Correctional Facility in New York State; William "Red" Graham has been denied access to a basic introductory text on Zen Buddhism entitled "Prison Chaplaincy Guidelines for Zen Buddhism" authored by Venerable Kobutsu Malone.
The facility's "Media Review Committee" will not allow William to receive a copy of the book due to a non-existent regulation which it lists as "Depicts/describes procedures to be implemented solely by Administration"........A comprehensive review of the directive's guidelines reveals nothing that substantiates a justification for the ban, as none of the content in the book contradicts in any way whatsoever what the State lists as "standards for media evaluation.".........To date, only Gowanda Correctional Facility in New York has objected to the book. No other correctional facilities within New York State, The Federal Bureau of Prisons, or prisons and jails in any other state have taken similar action.
3. Chairperson of Parole, Robert Dennison, Visits Beacon Prison
On February 27, 2006, at the request of women in prison at Beacon Prison, Robert Dennison, Chairperson of the New York State Division of Parole, visited Beacon to talk about parole. The following is a excerpt from a “fact sheet” of said visit, reported by someone who was there and presumably unable to take notes or have recording equipment, so it cannot be verified. It was first published in May 2006 Deuce Club, the newsletter of The Coalition for Parole Restoration (CPR ). We publish a few paragraphs to attract your interest. To read the entire article please send your request to CPR, PO Box 1379, NY NY 10013-0877, call 888 590 9212, or email: parolecpr@yahoo.com.
Dennison admitted that the commissioners are more likely to let people convicted of nonviolent crimes go, even though they know that their recidivism rate is much higher that people convicted of violent felony offenses.
............Dennison admitted women do better in prison than men, and much better on parole. The likelihood of a woman convicted of a violent crime to return to prison is less than one percent. In fact, statistics are practically non-available concerning this. Dennison also admitted that since 2001, only 28 people convicted of class A-1 felonies have been paroled.
..........Dennison denied that the stats in the New York Law Journal article, “Parole Release Rates Plunge Under Pataki’s Tough Policy” [01/31/06], were correct. When questioned about the “correct” stats, he said he didn’t know.
...........Dennison also stated that he would repeat everything he said in front of the women in Beacon in front of the media.
..........When asked if he believed in rehabilitation, Dennison clearly answered “Yes.”
..........Dennison further stated that parole decisions were not made in advance, contrary to what some people in prison might believe.
If a person was sentenced to 20 years to life, obviously the judge must have been of the opinion that 20 years was appropriate, if indeed the person had done all he/she could do. When posed this question, as to why people in this situation were repeatedly denied parole, Dennison simply answered: “The parole board has the discretion to increase that sentence.”
We can change our attitude, our outlook on life, we can do programs and be in counseling for years, but we cannot change the nature of the crime. How do you expect us to go up against that? The answer by Dennison was, “You can’t.”
4. Convict Nation, By Silja J. A. Talvi, senior editor, In These Times
June 1, 2006 - In These Times (US) [full article available at www.inthesetimes.com]
In May, I traveled to McNeil Island Corrections Center, a medium-custody men's prison in Washington state. I made the journey out there because I had been invited to experience the Native American prisoners' annual Pow Wow, which brings together spiritual elders, prisoners and their families, for a powerfully intense four-hour ceremony.
The biggest challenge, as I quickly discovered, wasn't taking in all of the emotion surrounding the event, but having even the briefest moment of privacy for thinking, taking notes, or talking to prisoners. Increasingly, American prison life doesn't allow for privacy -- not even for outsiders like myself. I could discern no possible security risk from a small-statured woman with a pen and a notepad at an island prison, surrounded by barbed wire and frigid waters. Regardless, for four hours, my every move and word was followed, intercepted and occasionally interjected upon. I could barely endure it for the half a day I was there. Millions of Americans don't have that choice.
Of course, many prisoners are indeed guilty of precisely the crimes they've been charged with -- or some version of the crime for which they've been sentenced. And some are absolutely innocent, doing time on trumped up charges, or because a snitch got out of prison time by "rolling" on some of his friends. But assessing the consequences of our country's soaring imprisonment rates has less to do with the question of guilt versus innocence than it does with the question of who, among us, truly deserves to go to prison and face the restrictive -- and sometimes brutally repressive -- conditions found there.
5. Family Empowerment Day 2 Updates:
The G.E.O. at Mid-Orange is promoting Family Empowerment Day 2 by giving each person on a housing unit a copy of the following information sheet, with a request that each person send a copy to his family and friends. The information sheet reads as follows:,
Dear _____, On October 21, 2006 there will be a Family Empowerment Day 2 event held. I need you (or alternatively, you and our family members) to attend this very important meeting as my representative/s because I don’t have a voice without you speaking for me.
The topic will be PAROLE. The day will consist of speakers, discussion groups, and deciding on a plan of action. Free food and childcare will be provided. Please attend this event for me, it will be held at the following time and address: October 21, 2006, 11 am to 3:30 PM, Middle Collegiate Church, Second Avenue and 7th Street, NYC 10003, 212 477-0666.
Remember you are my connection to the outside so please attend this meeting on October 21, 2006, it’s a Saturday.
[The G.E.O. will also be encouraging reentry organizations to support “this very important event.”]
****************
The Latest Information on FED2:
Date: October 21, 2006
Time: 11 am - 3:30 pm
Topic: Parole Policies in NYS (and what can be done to change them).
Location: Middle Collegiate Church, Second Avenue at 7th Street in Manhattan,.212 477-0666.
Presented by the COALITION OF FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY:
Individuals who have loved ones in NYS prisons
Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Reentry and Employment (ICARE)
Citizens for Restorative Justice (CRJ)
Coalition of Families of NYS Lifers
Coalition for Parole Restoration (CPR)
Prison Action Network (PAN)
Prisoners Are People Too!
Your organization is invited to join the coalition....
PAROLE IS THE ISSUE....how to End Parole Denials to Community Ready Individuals
Family Empowerment Day 2 will be a day where family and supporters meet, greet and decide what we can do to end parole denials to community-ready individuals.
Tentative program schedule:
11:00 Registration and Refreshments
11:30: Welcoming Remarks and Introduction
11:45 - 12:45 Opening Keynote Speaker/s (15-30 minutes each, depending ...)
12:45 - 1:15 Networking/Tabling break with buffet /refreshments.
1:15 - 2:45 Individual breakout groups led by each available speaker
3:00 Closing remarks and Call to Action
3:15 Time to Network and sign petitions, etc.
3:30 Break down.
History of the event:
The first Family Empowerment Day was held on May 21, 2005. It was the brainchild of the Otisville Correctional Facility’s Lifers Group, who involved their families and supporters in organizing a day of consciousness; a day of strength through diversity; a day of hope. The following was written by the men in the group:
Every year parole denials are served out in large numbers amongst violent felony offenders. To many this is a disheartening experience, psychologically shattering. That experience is shared by prisoners and their loved ones who must, once again, be told: “I don’t know when I’m coming home.” Husbands and wives worry about their continued future as single parents and providers, children weep and ask: “How come Daddy/Mommy is not coming home?”. Elderly parents must be comforted, if for nothing else than their fear of dying alone.
Like ripples in a pond, so many other lives were (and are) affected. For every community-ready person denied parole a heavy toll is exacted on the social, political and moral fiber of society. Families and communities are destabilized, needed funding for healthcare, childcare, housing, education, job training and community institutions is shifted to support already overburdened State Correctional budgets.
Many men and women throughout the State are losing hope. Hope is the one thing which holds many together in the period between parole appearances and parole denials. Family Empowerment Day renewed hope for a lot of the people in attendance last year, who believed those eminently qualified were being denied because they were doing something wrong. This was (and is) not the case, and 5/21 raised consciousness among families and supporters to that fact. That day’s events helped them to understand that they are the pillars of strength for their incarcerated loved ones; they are their foundation and that if they crumble those inside most assuredly will as well.
Family Empowerment Day 2, on October 21, 2006 will be a day where family and supporters meet, greet and learn what steps can be taken together to shed light on what has gone on in the dark for far too long. It is a day that, like the incredibly diverse yet solidly united men in the Otisville Lifers Group who conceived the event, can move us forward as one family which can begin to think and act together rather than continue as a disunified, politically unempowered group scattered across the state, in separate enclaves, divided by race, social class, ethnicity and religion.
We believe in education, faith and transformation. Theses principles guide us to fight for those who won’t fight, those who have given up hope, and those who because of death, can no longer fight. We also fight for the families and supporters who do not understand why community-ready men and women are not being released. Please do not let them down.
*****************
Film Fundraiser raises $170 for Family Empowerment Day 2:
The screening of “Favela Rising” on June 14, followed with a Q & A session led by PAN board member Nathan Hamlin, raised $170 for Family Empowerment Day 2. Thanks to all supporters who came out and were rewarded by an inspiring film and provocative discussion afterward.
*****************
6. From the Inside
Editor’s Note: last month we omitted the names of the prisoners at Gt Meadow who wrote a collective statement of condemnation and outrage at the murder of Sister Karen Klimczak. We apologize to the men whose heartfelt words were published without giving them individual credit:
George Baba Eng, 77A4777;
John Standley, 84B1584;
James Gardiner, 86A0323;
Jimmie Lee Allen, 80A1633;
Shawnon Bolden, 90T4601;
Victor Bolling, 93A4570;
Ashton Nedrick, 87A3212.
[From now on the Building Bridges policy will be to publish the name and DIN of all those in prison whose submissions are printed. If you do not want that information published please make sure we know.]
I read the June 2006 Building Bridges with a sense of pride and accomplishment. I’m both elated and heartened by the momentum building up as a result of persons on both sides of the wall.
Over recent years I noticed a decline in positive legitimate activities by incarcerated individuals as gang fighting and drug use dominated the minds of those behind the walls. Now there seems to be a new awakening, and it’s good to see so many getting back aboard. I’m glad to see Elmira’s PAC organization back in full swing. Their enthusiasm is commendable.
Thanks for publishing the expose of Rush Limbaugh’s hypocrisy (May 2006 issue, from the Internet, by A. Papa) and for honorably mentioning Sister Karen Klimczak. We laugh at phonies like Limbaugh, and we weep at losing a helper and supporter like Sis Karen.
My thanks to the families and friends of prisoners conscious enough to realize that no significant changes will come without their participation. Justice will not come without effort.
--Jehan Abdur-Raheem, 77A1180
*****************************************************
It was a great loss when Grandpa Al Lewis passed on February 3, 2006. However, he only asked that we be the best at whatever it was we did in life. He gave so much to prisoners and their loved ones that it’s only right that we continue on in his absence. The Al Lewis Live Show is hosted by Karen Lewis on WBAI from 12 noon to 2 PM after On The Count. If anyone wishes to give a donation to honor his spirit, his life and his contributions, they may do so by sending them to either: KPFK/California, Attn: Sue Welsh, 3729 Cahuenga Blvd West, No Hollywood, Cal 91604 or WBAI, NYC, PO Box 11445, Church St Station, NY NY 10277-2071.
Grandpa Al always wanted us to remember that no matter how seemingly good it gets: ‘The struggle goes on. The victory is in the struggle, for me. And, I accepted that a long time ago.’ He will always be, for me and many others, a guiding force to honor, recognize and respect as we follow his beacon to greatness. May he rest in peace and his family find peace of mind from knowing that he was great in all he did!
-- Chas Ransome DIN 85A16436
Chas Ransome is a Creative Program Developer and Special Event Coordinator who has been instrumental in getting fellow inmates to write letters to the Assembly and Senate on both the MCI Contract and Parole. Many more than he expected wrote their own letters. Building Bridges congratulates people on both sides of the wall who are becoming involved in the political process! Remember, your vote is only a small part. Becoming informed and letting our representatives know where you stand makes a real difference. Working on campaigns, going door to door and making phone calls can actually get your candidate elected. We may not have money, but we’ve got the numbers!
**********************
I’d like to share these words of wisdom with those men and women that are changing for the better: “The journey in between what we once were and who we are now becoming is where the dance of Life really takes place. Life is a journey, travel light.” -- Mika’il Muwakil DIN 77A2639
7. From Other Media Sources
‘Jail Jam’ OK, Assoc Press: Albany
A federal judge has tossed out a class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of NYS prisoners forced to share cells with other inmates, ruling the practice does not violate the U. S. Constitution.
US District Judge Gerard Lynch, in a decision dated May 26, said that simply putting two convicts in a cell designed for one “is a far cry from the ‘wanton and unnecessary infliction of pain’ against which the Eighth amendment protects.”
[Thanks to Mika’il Muwakil for forwarding this article]
Pataki Appoints 7 to Parole Board
The 7 new appointees and their expiration dates:
Jennifer Arena, June 16, 2008;
Alan J.Croce, June 18, 2009;
James Ferguson, July 6, 2011;
Gerald J. Greenan III, June 18, 2012;
Christina Hernandez, June 02, 2011;
G. Kevin Ludlow, June 18, 2011;
Chris Ortloff, June 18, 2012
June 24, 2006 -- ALBANY - Lame-duck Gov. Pataki's patronage machine shifted into high gear yesterday as the names of dozens more politically connected friends and associates - including the wife of CNBC host Lawrence Kudlow - were sent to the GOP-controlled Senate for appointment to high-level jobs and prestigious boards. Democrats challenged some of the moves, which came on the last day of the legislative session, and even some Republicans were aghast, with one saying of the appointments: "With few exceptions, a parade of hacks." Democrats pounced on the qualifications of Jennifer Arena, a longtime Pataki administration spokeswoman, for a two-year term - at $101,600 a year - on the state Board of Parole. Senate Minority Leader David Paterson (D-Manhattan) said Arena failed to meet the state law's requirement that board members have at least five years' experience in such fields as criminology, law, psychology and law enforcement. "There are reasons the law makes this requirement and it is to preserve some integrity to the appointments process," said Paterson. Arena's résumé lists her as a 1990 Michigan State University graduate in journalism who has held two journalism-related jobs, in Florida and Buffalo, and three public-relations jobs working for Pataki and former Republican Attorney General Dennis Vacco. Pataki spokesman Michael Marr contended Arena's experiences as a spokeswoman were sufficient to meet the legal requirement. [Most of this came from a recent New York Post article by Fredrick U. Dicker.]
8. Legal Battle Won by PLN
June 27: Prison Legal news won an important press freedom case by obtaining a federal court ruling that we are entitled to the Federal Bureau of Prisons' information on the amount of money it has spent on all litigation over a multi year period. The BOP had claimed they lacked the information in one location and wanted $7K to look. The court held PLN is entitled to a fee waiver as provided for by the Freedom of Information Act. This practice, of charging public interest groups outrageous "search fees" has been a long standing government policy under the Bush administration which was denounced by the New York Times in an editorial on February 4, 2006. PLN's case is among the first to obtain a win for the press and other public interest organizations.
Many thanks to Ed Elder, PLN's attorney in the case and a member of the National Lawyer's Guild.
[For a complete report on this victory, you can write PLN at 2400 NW 80th St. #148, Seattle WA 98117,
or call them at: 206/ 246-1022].
9. Locked Down for More than a Lifetime
A letter from the Robert Seth Hayes Support Committee -
www.sethhayes.org l info@ssethhayes.org
Robert “Seth” Hayes is a U.S. political prisoner and former member of the Black Panther Party who has been imprisoned in New York state for more than three decades. When Seth was convicted in 1974, his sentence was 25 years to life. The implicit understanding at the time of his sentencing was that Seth would serve 25 years as a minimum, after which time he would be eligible for release based on his record and conduct in prison. In July, 2006, Seth will be going before the parole board for the fourth time. At each of Seth’s previous parole hearings, he was denied release due to the serious nature of the crime he was convicted for and given another two years in jail. The refusal of parole for the serious nature of the crime seems contrary to the spirit of the law, for it is something that a prisoner can never change, and the giving of parole is based upon the prisoner's behavior while behind bars. Seth is not the only one being subjected to these unfair rules. This has become common practice for the New York state parole board, who, by denying parole based on the seriousness of the conviction, are defacto re-sentencing many prisoners to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Seth’s prison record is exemplary, and if a decision about Seth’s parole were to be based on his conduct and personal growth, he would have rejoined his family and his community years ago.
Please write a letter to the parole board to let them know that you think Seth deserves to be released. All letters should be mailed or faxed to Seth’s lawyer, Susan Tipograph, immediately, as Seth's parole hearing is taking place on July 15, 2006. Susan Tipograph, Attorney At Law, 350 Broadway, New York, NY 10013, fax (212) 625-3939. For more information, visit www.sethhayes.org.
Robert Seth Hayes Parole Support Events:
7PM, Sunday, July 2, 271 Grant Street, West Side, Buffalo, NY
7PM, Monday, July 3, 118 East Utica Street,East Side, Buffalo, NY
Arissa - Buffalo Chapter P.O. Box 84 Buffalo, NY 14213 Tel: (716) 796-5460 or email leslie@arissa.org
10. Meetings
A. Prison Families of New York groups:
ALBANY
7-8:30 pm every Monday at The Womens Bldg. 79 Central Ave, Albany . Ring the bell for the library and lounge to get in. Alison at 518 453 6659.
POUGHKEEPSIE
7 - 8:30 pm Monday July 10 and July 24 at the Family Partnership Building 29 North Hamilton Street. Deb at 845-616-9698, dabboz@aol.com.
B. Other Advocacy/Self-Help Groups:
Citizens for Restorative Justice. Thur. July 6th at the Family Partnership building at 29 North Hamilton Street in Poughkeepsie. Deb at 845-619-9698 or dabboz@aol.com.
Coalition of Families of NYS Lifers: Any family member or friend of a prisoner with life at the end of their sentence is invited to contact the Coalition of Families of New York State Lifers, PO Box 1314, Wappinger Falls, New York 12590 or . If you know anyone who is a family member or friend of a prisoner, please encourage them to write.
Surviving The City: A prison release support group in Albany
Every 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month - 11:30 am (next meeting July 8)
176 Sheridan Ave, at the Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless Bldg.
Together, we're working to advance ourselves far beyond the walls that incarcerate us!!! All formerly incarcerated individuals are welcome to come and share their hopes,inspirations, and experiences. Call Nathan at 518 368 3480 for more information.
11. Radio Programs
Voices from the Prison Action Network is now heard at 5:30pm on Tuesdays at WRPI Troy, 91.5 FM, and for those outside broadcast range, live at www.wrpi.org. It’s part of the Indymedia Radio Program which starts at 3 and ends at 6. WRPI, Troy has a lot of worthwhile programming, including Democracy Now! at 9am every weekday. Preceding Voices from the Prison Action Network, from 12-2 on Tuesdays is Wild Style Breaks hosted by DJ Sho' Nuf.
The Fancy Broccoli Show airs on somewhat alternate Sundays from 3 - 6pm on Independent Radio WVKR 91.3 FM, Poughkeepsie NY. WVKR streams online - go to www.Live365.com and search for WVKR
On the Count! WBAI 99.5 FM - Pacifica Radio in NYC 10:30 a.m.-12:00 noon Saturdays
12. Transportation to Prisons
A. Please join Prison Action Network when we meet the DOCS free bus at the Albany bus terminal, 12:45 AM on Sunday morning July 9. The bus will be traveling to Gowanda - Collins - Groveland - Livingston. We will meet on Friday afternoon [July 8] to prepare packets, and we need help. Please call 518 253-7533 for location.
B. Prison Action Network offers Rides: Call 518 253-7533 if you need a ride to visit your incarcerated loved one [there is no charge for this service]:
Rides are available from Albany, with the following limitations. Please contact PAN to be connected to your driver.
the prison must be within 150 miles of Albany [300 miles round trip].
driver is willing to wait 2-3 hours for visit to be concluded.
driver is willing to start, from the visitor's residence, as early as 8:00 A.M.
driver is willing to get back home as late as 6:00 P.M.
driver is available on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
car seats 5, though, for a trip of 150 miles, sitting in the middle of the back seat would be a tight squeeze.
C. The NEST prison shuttle schedule: Mt. McGregor, Washington, and Great Meadow Facilities on Sat, July 1 ($30 adults, $20 children), July 22 ($15 adults and $10 children), leaving Oakwood Ave Presbyt. Church parking lot, Troy at 7 AM, and Albany Greyhound Bus station at 7:15. Trip to the Utica Hub (Midstate, Marcy, Mohawk, Oneida) Sat, July 15 leaving at 5 AM ($40 adults, $25 children). Call for reservations and information: Linda O'Malley 518- 273-5199.
Readers are invited to submit notices or articles of interest for publication in this newsletter.
We invite you to write or call Building Bridges, a project of the Prison Action Network:
PAN, c/o H-M IMC
PO Box 35
Troy, NY 12181
518 253 7533
prisonaction@hotmail.com
www.prisonaction.blogspot.com
Request for help:
Prison Action Network receives many requests from prisoners for legal assistance. We have no legal staff. Currently we have in hand a letter asking for help with a class action suit in regard to asbestos, unsanitary mess-hall/kitchen and second-hand smoke. If you can advise, please contact PAN and we’ll forward your response.
Thanks to the AJ Muste Memorial Institute for their generous support.
IF YOU HAVE A LOVED ONE WHO’S BEEN DENIED PAROLE, or is eligible for parole, or you care about the issue for some other reason, you’re invited to a meeting that is only a few months away. Family Empowerment Day 2 on Oct 21, which is described in Article 5 of this issue, is all about coming together to plan what we can do to end parole denials to community-ready individuals.
It’s exciting to learn about the growing interest in the event. The Coalition of Families and Community has heard from many people, and we know each one of them is also spreading the word. HOW MANY OF YOU ARE EXPECTING TO ATTEND? If you are, please let us know. If you’ve been inviting your friends and family to attend, please let us know how many have accepted the invitation, with their names and contact info if possible. The Coalition needs this information to be able to create an event that is pleasant as well as effective. Send the information to any of the following: prisonaction@hotmail.com; PAN, H-M IMC, PO Box 35, Troy NY 12181; in the Capital District: 518-253 7533; in the Buffalo area: 716-834-8438, in Poughkeepsie area: 845-616-9698.
Together we CAN make a difference!
Articles:
1. Additional Bills pass in State Legislature!
2. Buddhism Text Denied to Prisoner
3. Chairperson of Parole, Robert Dennison, Visits Beacon Prison
4. Convict Nation, by Silja J. A. Talvi
5. Family Empowerment Day 2 Updates
6. From the Inside: Jehan Abdur-Raheem, Chas Ransome
7. From Other Media: ‘Jail Jam’ OK, Pataki Appoints 7 to Parole Board
8. Legal Battle Won by Prison Legal News
9. Locked Down for More than a Lifetime - Seth Hayes
10. Meetings
11. Radio Programs
12. Transportation to Prisons
1. Additional Bills Pass in State Legislature
S7588/A10832, was signed into law by the governor on June 7, 2006! NYS penal law now reorients the focus of incarceration to promote reentry while an individual is being sentenced and is in prison, and the corrections law now clarifies the process for applicants seeking Certificates of Relief from Disabilities, thus enabling job seekers to find employment or gain occupational licenses more quickly. To look up the text of this bill, go to www.communityalternatives.org. Thanks to ICARE for all their work on this bill. For more information about ICARE, you can visit www.nyicare.org.
A11562 passed in the Assembly on June 21. It requires that both the Department of Correctional Services and the Division of Parole notify all persons who reach their maximum sentence of imprisonment about their right to vote in writing. The legislation also requires that in addition to notifying a person released from prison or discharged from parole about their right to vote, each such person be provided with a voter registration form together with information about the importance and mechanics of voting.
Finally, the legislation requires that the State Board of Elections be notified about all persons who are again eligible to vote because they have reached their maximum imprisonment date, been discharged from parole, conditional release, or presumptive release, or completed a period of post-release supervision. The State Board of Elections must then transmit this information to all local boards of elections.
S.5934-A/A.6179-A is now at the governor's office. The Senate and Assembly passed the licensing bill sponsored by Senator Velmanette Montgomery and Assemblymember Michael Benjamin that states that men and women who are trained to practice cosmetology and barbering in prison can no longer be denied a license simply because of their criminal conviction/s. Cosmetology training is offered to women incarcerated at Taconic, Bedford Hills and Albion Correctional Facilities. Barbering training is available to male inmates at Hudson, Green Haven, Auburn and Mid-State Correctional Facilities.
Senator Montgomery calls on criminal justice advocates statewide to join her in urging Governor PATAKI, ph: 518 474-8390, to sign this bill into law. PLEASE CALL THE GOVERNOR TO URGE HIS SUPPORT FOR BILL S.5934- A/A.6179-A!
SHU Bill
A bill to prohibit placing mentally ill inmates in solitary confinement passed the State Legislature. It now goes to Gov. George Pataki.
According to Paul Grondahl, Staff writer, Albany Times Union, in his Wednesday, June 28, 2006 column, [Sen. Michael Nozzolio, R-Seneca Falls, chairman of the Committee on Crime Victims, Crime and Corrections and sponsor of the bill]. “said the bill's unanimous passage in the Senate came about because it not only would offer more humane treatment for mentally ill prisoners placed in Special Housing Units (SHUs), also known as The Box, but would make prisons safer for correction officers, too. Support from the correction officer union and others representing prison employees was crucial, Nozzolio said.”
In that same article, Paul mentioned PFNY, an organization to which many of our readers belong: “’Two dozen women who are wives, sisters and mothers of prisoners praised passage of the bill at the fourth annual retreat of Prison Families of New York, held last week in Lake George’, the group's director said. ‘Their loved ones with mental illness were being criminalized, and they had no business being in the SHUs,’ Alison Coleman said.”
2. Access to Book on Zen Buddhism Denied
at Gowanda Correctional Facility, Gowanda, New York USA
by Kooi Fong Lim, The Buddhist Channel, June 5, 2006 - Excerpts from original article, posted at www.buddhistchannel.tv
Gowanda, New York (USA) -- A prisoner at the Gowanda Correctional Facility in New York State; William "Red" Graham has been denied access to a basic introductory text on Zen Buddhism entitled "Prison Chaplaincy Guidelines for Zen Buddhism" authored by Venerable Kobutsu Malone.
The facility's "Media Review Committee" will not allow William to receive a copy of the book due to a non-existent regulation which it lists as "Depicts/describes procedures to be implemented solely by Administration"........A comprehensive review of the directive's guidelines reveals nothing that substantiates a justification for the ban, as none of the content in the book contradicts in any way whatsoever what the State lists as "standards for media evaluation.".........To date, only Gowanda Correctional Facility in New York has objected to the book. No other correctional facilities within New York State, The Federal Bureau of Prisons, or prisons and jails in any other state have taken similar action.
3. Chairperson of Parole, Robert Dennison, Visits Beacon Prison
On February 27, 2006, at the request of women in prison at Beacon Prison, Robert Dennison, Chairperson of the New York State Division of Parole, visited Beacon to talk about parole. The following is a excerpt from a “fact sheet” of said visit, reported by someone who was there and presumably unable to take notes or have recording equipment, so it cannot be verified. It was first published in May 2006 Deuce Club, the newsletter of The Coalition for Parole Restoration (CPR ). We publish a few paragraphs to attract your interest. To read the entire article please send your request to CPR, PO Box 1379, NY NY 10013-0877, call 888 590 9212, or email: parolecpr@yahoo.com.
Dennison admitted that the commissioners are more likely to let people convicted of nonviolent crimes go, even though they know that their recidivism rate is much higher that people convicted of violent felony offenses.
............Dennison admitted women do better in prison than men, and much better on parole. The likelihood of a woman convicted of a violent crime to return to prison is less than one percent. In fact, statistics are practically non-available concerning this. Dennison also admitted that since 2001, only 28 people convicted of class A-1 felonies have been paroled.
..........Dennison denied that the stats in the New York Law Journal article, “Parole Release Rates Plunge Under Pataki’s Tough Policy” [01/31/06], were correct. When questioned about the “correct” stats, he said he didn’t know.
...........Dennison also stated that he would repeat everything he said in front of the women in Beacon in front of the media.
..........When asked if he believed in rehabilitation, Dennison clearly answered “Yes.”
..........Dennison further stated that parole decisions were not made in advance, contrary to what some people in prison might believe.
If a person was sentenced to 20 years to life, obviously the judge must have been of the opinion that 20 years was appropriate, if indeed the person had done all he/she could do. When posed this question, as to why people in this situation were repeatedly denied parole, Dennison simply answered: “The parole board has the discretion to increase that sentence.”
We can change our attitude, our outlook on life, we can do programs and be in counseling for years, but we cannot change the nature of the crime. How do you expect us to go up against that? The answer by Dennison was, “You can’t.”
4. Convict Nation, By Silja J. A. Talvi, senior editor, In These Times
June 1, 2006 - In These Times (US) [full article available at www.inthesetimes.com]
In May, I traveled to McNeil Island Corrections Center, a medium-custody men's prison in Washington state. I made the journey out there because I had been invited to experience the Native American prisoners' annual Pow Wow, which brings together spiritual elders, prisoners and their families, for a powerfully intense four-hour ceremony.
The biggest challenge, as I quickly discovered, wasn't taking in all of the emotion surrounding the event, but having even the briefest moment of privacy for thinking, taking notes, or talking to prisoners. Increasingly, American prison life doesn't allow for privacy -- not even for outsiders like myself. I could discern no possible security risk from a small-statured woman with a pen and a notepad at an island prison, surrounded by barbed wire and frigid waters. Regardless, for four hours, my every move and word was followed, intercepted and occasionally interjected upon. I could barely endure it for the half a day I was there. Millions of Americans don't have that choice.
Of course, many prisoners are indeed guilty of precisely the crimes they've been charged with -- or some version of the crime for which they've been sentenced. And some are absolutely innocent, doing time on trumped up charges, or because a snitch got out of prison time by "rolling" on some of his friends. But assessing the consequences of our country's soaring imprisonment rates has less to do with the question of guilt versus innocence than it does with the question of who, among us, truly deserves to go to prison and face the restrictive -- and sometimes brutally repressive -- conditions found there.
5. Family Empowerment Day 2 Updates:
The G.E.O. at Mid-Orange is promoting Family Empowerment Day 2 by giving each person on a housing unit a copy of the following information sheet, with a request that each person send a copy to his family and friends. The information sheet reads as follows:,
Dear _____, On October 21, 2006 there will be a Family Empowerment Day 2 event held. I need you (or alternatively, you and our family members) to attend this very important meeting as my representative/s because I don’t have a voice without you speaking for me.
The topic will be PAROLE. The day will consist of speakers, discussion groups, and deciding on a plan of action. Free food and childcare will be provided. Please attend this event for me, it will be held at the following time and address: October 21, 2006, 11 am to 3:30 PM, Middle Collegiate Church, Second Avenue and 7th Street, NYC 10003, 212 477-0666.
Remember you are my connection to the outside so please attend this meeting on October 21, 2006, it’s a Saturday.
[The G.E.O. will also be encouraging reentry organizations to support “this very important event.”]
****************
The Latest Information on FED2:
Date: October 21, 2006
Time: 11 am - 3:30 pm
Topic: Parole Policies in NYS (and what can be done to change them).
Location: Middle Collegiate Church, Second Avenue at 7th Street in Manhattan,.212 477-0666.
Presented by the COALITION OF FAMILIES AND COMMUNITY:
Individuals who have loved ones in NYS prisons
Interfaith Coalition of Advocates for Reentry and Employment (ICARE)
Citizens for Restorative Justice (CRJ)
Coalition of Families of NYS Lifers
Coalition for Parole Restoration (CPR)
Prison Action Network (PAN)
Prisoners Are People Too!
Your organization is invited to join the coalition....
PAROLE IS THE ISSUE....how to End Parole Denials to Community Ready Individuals
Family Empowerment Day 2 will be a day where family and supporters meet, greet and decide what we can do to end parole denials to community-ready individuals.
Tentative program schedule:
11:00 Registration and Refreshments
11:30: Welcoming Remarks and Introduction
11:45 - 12:45 Opening Keynote Speaker/s (15-30 minutes each, depending ...)
12:45 - 1:15 Networking/Tabling break with buffet /refreshments.
1:15 - 2:45 Individual breakout groups led by each available speaker
3:00 Closing remarks and Call to Action
3:15 Time to Network and sign petitions, etc.
3:30 Break down.
History of the event:
The first Family Empowerment Day was held on May 21, 2005. It was the brainchild of the Otisville Correctional Facility’s Lifers Group, who involved their families and supporters in organizing a day of consciousness; a day of strength through diversity; a day of hope. The following was written by the men in the group:
Every year parole denials are served out in large numbers amongst violent felony offenders. To many this is a disheartening experience, psychologically shattering. That experience is shared by prisoners and their loved ones who must, once again, be told: “I don’t know when I’m coming home.” Husbands and wives worry about their continued future as single parents and providers, children weep and ask: “How come Daddy/Mommy is not coming home?”. Elderly parents must be comforted, if for nothing else than their fear of dying alone.
Like ripples in a pond, so many other lives were (and are) affected. For every community-ready person denied parole a heavy toll is exacted on the social, political and moral fiber of society. Families and communities are destabilized, needed funding for healthcare, childcare, housing, education, job training and community institutions is shifted to support already overburdened State Correctional budgets.
Many men and women throughout the State are losing hope. Hope is the one thing which holds many together in the period between parole appearances and parole denials. Family Empowerment Day renewed hope for a lot of the people in attendance last year, who believed those eminently qualified were being denied because they were doing something wrong. This was (and is) not the case, and 5/21 raised consciousness among families and supporters to that fact. That day’s events helped them to understand that they are the pillars of strength for their incarcerated loved ones; they are their foundation and that if they crumble those inside most assuredly will as well.
Family Empowerment Day 2, on October 21, 2006 will be a day where family and supporters meet, greet and learn what steps can be taken together to shed light on what has gone on in the dark for far too long. It is a day that, like the incredibly diverse yet solidly united men in the Otisville Lifers Group who conceived the event, can move us forward as one family which can begin to think and act together rather than continue as a disunified, politically unempowered group scattered across the state, in separate enclaves, divided by race, social class, ethnicity and religion.
We believe in education, faith and transformation. Theses principles guide us to fight for those who won’t fight, those who have given up hope, and those who because of death, can no longer fight. We also fight for the families and supporters who do not understand why community-ready men and women are not being released. Please do not let them down.
*****************
Film Fundraiser raises $170 for Family Empowerment Day 2:
The screening of “Favela Rising” on June 14, followed with a Q & A session led by PAN board member Nathan Hamlin, raised $170 for Family Empowerment Day 2. Thanks to all supporters who came out and were rewarded by an inspiring film and provocative discussion afterward.
*****************
6. From the Inside
Editor’s Note: last month we omitted the names of the prisoners at Gt Meadow who wrote a collective statement of condemnation and outrage at the murder of Sister Karen Klimczak. We apologize to the men whose heartfelt words were published without giving them individual credit:
George Baba Eng, 77A4777;
John Standley, 84B1584;
James Gardiner, 86A0323;
Jimmie Lee Allen, 80A1633;
Shawnon Bolden, 90T4601;
Victor Bolling, 93A4570;
Ashton Nedrick, 87A3212.
[From now on the Building Bridges policy will be to publish the name and DIN of all those in prison whose submissions are printed. If you do not want that information published please make sure we know.]
I read the June 2006 Building Bridges with a sense of pride and accomplishment. I’m both elated and heartened by the momentum building up as a result of persons on both sides of the wall.
Over recent years I noticed a decline in positive legitimate activities by incarcerated individuals as gang fighting and drug use dominated the minds of those behind the walls. Now there seems to be a new awakening, and it’s good to see so many getting back aboard. I’m glad to see Elmira’s PAC organization back in full swing. Their enthusiasm is commendable.
Thanks for publishing the expose of Rush Limbaugh’s hypocrisy (May 2006 issue, from the Internet, by A. Papa) and for honorably mentioning Sister Karen Klimczak. We laugh at phonies like Limbaugh, and we weep at losing a helper and supporter like Sis Karen.
My thanks to the families and friends of prisoners conscious enough to realize that no significant changes will come without their participation. Justice will not come without effort.
--Jehan Abdur-Raheem, 77A1180
*****************************************************
It was a great loss when Grandpa Al Lewis passed on February 3, 2006. However, he only asked that we be the best at whatever it was we did in life. He gave so much to prisoners and their loved ones that it’s only right that we continue on in his absence. The Al Lewis Live Show is hosted by Karen Lewis on WBAI from 12 noon to 2 PM after On The Count. If anyone wishes to give a donation to honor his spirit, his life and his contributions, they may do so by sending them to either: KPFK/California, Attn: Sue Welsh, 3729 Cahuenga Blvd West, No Hollywood, Cal 91604 or WBAI, NYC, PO Box 11445, Church St Station, NY NY 10277-2071.
Grandpa Al always wanted us to remember that no matter how seemingly good it gets: ‘The struggle goes on. The victory is in the struggle, for me. And, I accepted that a long time ago.’ He will always be, for me and many others, a guiding force to honor, recognize and respect as we follow his beacon to greatness. May he rest in peace and his family find peace of mind from knowing that he was great in all he did!
-- Chas Ransome DIN 85A16436
Chas Ransome is a Creative Program Developer and Special Event Coordinator who has been instrumental in getting fellow inmates to write letters to the Assembly and Senate on both the MCI Contract and Parole. Many more than he expected wrote their own letters. Building Bridges congratulates people on both sides of the wall who are becoming involved in the political process! Remember, your vote is only a small part. Becoming informed and letting our representatives know where you stand makes a real difference. Working on campaigns, going door to door and making phone calls can actually get your candidate elected. We may not have money, but we’ve got the numbers!
**********************
I’d like to share these words of wisdom with those men and women that are changing for the better: “The journey in between what we once were and who we are now becoming is where the dance of Life really takes place. Life is a journey, travel light.” -- Mika’il Muwakil DIN 77A2639
7. From Other Media Sources
‘Jail Jam’ OK, Assoc Press: Albany
A federal judge has tossed out a class-action lawsuit filed on behalf of NYS prisoners forced to share cells with other inmates, ruling the practice does not violate the U. S. Constitution.
US District Judge Gerard Lynch, in a decision dated May 26, said that simply putting two convicts in a cell designed for one “is a far cry from the ‘wanton and unnecessary infliction of pain’ against which the Eighth amendment protects.”
[Thanks to Mika’il Muwakil for forwarding this article]
Pataki Appoints 7 to Parole Board
The 7 new appointees and their expiration dates:
Jennifer Arena, June 16, 2008;
Alan J.Croce, June 18, 2009;
James Ferguson, July 6, 2011;
Gerald J. Greenan III, June 18, 2012;
Christina Hernandez, June 02, 2011;
G. Kevin Ludlow, June 18, 2011;
Chris Ortloff, June 18, 2012
June 24, 2006 -- ALBANY - Lame-duck Gov. Pataki's patronage machine shifted into high gear yesterday as the names of dozens more politically connected friends and associates - including the wife of CNBC host Lawrence Kudlow - were sent to the GOP-controlled Senate for appointment to high-level jobs and prestigious boards. Democrats challenged some of the moves, which came on the last day of the legislative session, and even some Republicans were aghast, with one saying of the appointments: "With few exceptions, a parade of hacks." Democrats pounced on the qualifications of Jennifer Arena, a longtime Pataki administration spokeswoman, for a two-year term - at $101,600 a year - on the state Board of Parole. Senate Minority Leader David Paterson (D-Manhattan) said Arena failed to meet the state law's requirement that board members have at least five years' experience in such fields as criminology, law, psychology and law enforcement. "There are reasons the law makes this requirement and it is to preserve some integrity to the appointments process," said Paterson. Arena's résumé lists her as a 1990 Michigan State University graduate in journalism who has held two journalism-related jobs, in Florida and Buffalo, and three public-relations jobs working for Pataki and former Republican Attorney General Dennis Vacco. Pataki spokesman Michael Marr contended Arena's experiences as a spokeswoman were sufficient to meet the legal requirement. [Most of this came from a recent New York Post article by Fredrick U. Dicker.]
8. Legal Battle Won by PLN
June 27: Prison Legal news won an important press freedom case by obtaining a federal court ruling that we are entitled to the Federal Bureau of Prisons' information on the amount of money it has spent on all litigation over a multi year period. The BOP had claimed they lacked the information in one location and wanted $7K to look. The court held PLN is entitled to a fee waiver as provided for by the Freedom of Information Act. This practice, of charging public interest groups outrageous "search fees" has been a long standing government policy under the Bush administration which was denounced by the New York Times in an editorial on February 4, 2006. PLN's case is among the first to obtain a win for the press and other public interest organizations.
Many thanks to Ed Elder, PLN's attorney in the case and a member of the National Lawyer's Guild.
[For a complete report on this victory, you can write PLN at 2400 NW 80th St. #148, Seattle WA 98117,
or call them at: 206/ 246-1022].
9. Locked Down for More than a Lifetime
A letter from the Robert Seth Hayes Support Committee -
www.sethhayes.org l info@ssethhayes.org
Robert “Seth” Hayes is a U.S. political prisoner and former member of the Black Panther Party who has been imprisoned in New York state for more than three decades. When Seth was convicted in 1974, his sentence was 25 years to life. The implicit understanding at the time of his sentencing was that Seth would serve 25 years as a minimum, after which time he would be eligible for release based on his record and conduct in prison. In July, 2006, Seth will be going before the parole board for the fourth time. At each of Seth’s previous parole hearings, he was denied release due to the serious nature of the crime he was convicted for and given another two years in jail. The refusal of parole for the serious nature of the crime seems contrary to the spirit of the law, for it is something that a prisoner can never change, and the giving of parole is based upon the prisoner's behavior while behind bars. Seth is not the only one being subjected to these unfair rules. This has become common practice for the New York state parole board, who, by denying parole based on the seriousness of the conviction, are defacto re-sentencing many prisoners to life in prison without the possibility of parole.
Seth’s prison record is exemplary, and if a decision about Seth’s parole were to be based on his conduct and personal growth, he would have rejoined his family and his community years ago.
Please write a letter to the parole board to let them know that you think Seth deserves to be released. All letters should be mailed or faxed to Seth’s lawyer, Susan Tipograph, immediately, as Seth's parole hearing is taking place on July 15, 2006. Susan Tipograph, Attorney At Law, 350 Broadway, New York, NY 10013, fax (212) 625-3939. For more information, visit www.sethhayes.org.
Robert Seth Hayes Parole Support Events:
7PM, Sunday, July 2, 271 Grant Street, West Side, Buffalo, NY
7PM, Monday, July 3, 118 East Utica Street,East Side, Buffalo, NY
Arissa - Buffalo Chapter P.O. Box 84 Buffalo, NY 14213 Tel: (716) 796-5460 or email leslie@arissa.org
10. Meetings
A. Prison Families of New York groups:
ALBANY
7-8:30 pm every Monday at The Womens Bldg. 79 Central Ave, Albany . Ring the bell for the library and lounge to get in. Alison at 518 453 6659.
POUGHKEEPSIE
7 - 8:30 pm Monday July 10 and July 24 at the Family Partnership Building 29 North Hamilton Street. Deb at 845-616-9698, dabboz@aol.com.
B. Other Advocacy/Self-Help Groups:
Citizens for Restorative Justice. Thur. July 6th at the Family Partnership building at 29 North Hamilton Street in Poughkeepsie. Deb at 845-619-9698 or dabboz@aol.com.
Coalition of Families of NYS Lifers: Any family member or friend of a prisoner with life at the end of their sentence is invited to contact the Coalition of Families of New York State Lifers, PO Box 1314, Wappinger Falls, New York 12590 or . If you know anyone who is a family member or friend of a prisoner, please encourage them to write.
Surviving The City: A prison release support group in Albany
Every 2nd & 4th Saturday of the month - 11:30 am (next meeting July 8)
176 Sheridan Ave, at the Interfaith Partnership for the Homeless Bldg.
Together, we're working to advance ourselves far beyond the walls that incarcerate us!!! All formerly incarcerated individuals are welcome to come and share their hopes,inspirations, and experiences. Call Nathan at 518 368 3480 for more information.
11. Radio Programs
Voices from the Prison Action Network is now heard at 5:30pm on Tuesdays at WRPI Troy, 91.5 FM, and for those outside broadcast range, live at www.wrpi.org. It’s part of the Indymedia Radio Program which starts at 3 and ends at 6. WRPI, Troy has a lot of worthwhile programming, including Democracy Now! at 9am every weekday. Preceding Voices from the Prison Action Network, from 12-2 on Tuesdays is Wild Style Breaks hosted by DJ Sho' Nuf.
The Fancy Broccoli Show airs on somewhat alternate Sundays from 3 - 6pm on Independent Radio WVKR 91.3 FM, Poughkeepsie NY. WVKR streams online - go to www.Live365.com and search for WVKR
On the Count! WBAI 99.5 FM - Pacifica Radio in NYC 10:30 a.m.-12:00 noon Saturdays
12. Transportation to Prisons
A. Please join Prison Action Network when we meet the DOCS free bus at the Albany bus terminal, 12:45 AM on Sunday morning July 9. The bus will be traveling to Gowanda - Collins - Groveland - Livingston. We will meet on Friday afternoon [July 8] to prepare packets, and we need help. Please call 518 253-7533 for location.
B. Prison Action Network offers Rides: Call 518 253-7533 if you need a ride to visit your incarcerated loved one [there is no charge for this service]:
Rides are available from Albany, with the following limitations. Please contact PAN to be connected to your driver.
the prison must be within 150 miles of Albany [300 miles round trip].
driver is willing to wait 2-3 hours for visit to be concluded.
driver is willing to start, from the visitor's residence, as early as 8:00 A.M.
driver is willing to get back home as late as 6:00 P.M.
driver is available on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays.
car seats 5, though, for a trip of 150 miles, sitting in the middle of the back seat would be a tight squeeze.
C. The NEST prison shuttle schedule: Mt. McGregor, Washington, and Great Meadow Facilities on Sat, July 1 ($30 adults, $20 children), July 22 ($15 adults and $10 children), leaving Oakwood Ave Presbyt. Church parking lot, Troy at 7 AM, and Albany Greyhound Bus station at 7:15. Trip to the Utica Hub (Midstate, Marcy, Mohawk, Oneida) Sat, July 15 leaving at 5 AM ($40 adults, $25 children). Call for reservations and information: Linda O'Malley 518- 273-5199.
Readers are invited to submit notices or articles of interest for publication in this newsletter.
We invite you to write or call Building Bridges, a project of the Prison Action Network:
PAN, c/o H-M IMC
PO Box 35
Troy, NY 12181
518 253 7533
prisonaction@hotmail.com
www.prisonaction.blogspot.com
Request for help:
Prison Action Network receives many requests from prisoners for legal assistance. We have no legal staff. Currently we have in hand a letter asking for help with a class action suit in regard to asbestos, unsanitary mess-hall/kitchen and second-hand smoke. If you can advise, please contact PAN and we’ll forward your response.
Thanks to the AJ Muste Memorial Institute for their generous support.
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