Battles Yet To Be Won: A Benefit for Political Prisoner Marie Mason

Battles Yet To Be Won: A Benefit for Political Prisoner Marie Mason
Perspectives on Repression & Resistance- From the 1960’s to the Present

Thursday, July 22, 2010
7:30 PM
Submission Gallery
2183 Mission Street, San Francisco
$5-$20 Sliding scale (No one turned away)

Featuring: Former Prisoners Jeff Luers and Linda Evans, and Earth First!er Karen Pickett

Followed by tunes aplenty by KUSF DJ Carolyn Keddy

*****
Marie Mason is a long-time activist in the environmental and labor movements. In 2008, she was arrested on federal charges of property destruction that occurred in 1999. She was sentenced in 2009 to almost 22 years – the longest term of any “Green Scare” prisoner. Marie is currently appealing her sentence. She is imprisoned in Waseca, MN and is the loving mother of 2 children, from whom she has been torn away.

The “Green Scare” refers to the recent arrests of animal rights and environmental activists, charged with acts of economic sabotage. The US government and courts have dealt the activists outrageous sentences, publicly labeling them as “terrorists” – despite the fact that no one has been injured in any of their actions. For an introduction to the Green Scare, see http://www.greenisthenewred.com/blog/green-scare/.

This event will contextualize the current repression, a continuation of the government’s COINTELPRO agenda that historically also targeted movements such as the Black Panthers, American Indian Movement, Chicano rights, Puerto Rican Independentistas, and those in solidarity with them. Former prisoners will share their experiences and perspectives on Marie Mason’s case, focusing on what we can do to support her. Our struggles for change can only succeed if we show solidarity with our brothers and sisters who have fallen into the hands of the state. Let’s gather to strengthen our resistance!

For more information about Marie Mason visit: http://supportmariemason.org/.

Speakers:

Linda Evans- Sentenced to 40 years in prison in 1987 for her participation in radical resistance against U.S. imperialism, Linda Evans was released after presidential commutation in 2001. She has fought tirelessly for justice inside and out of prison, currently working with Legal Services for Prisoners with Children and All of Us or None to demand an end to the life-long discrimination faced by former prisoners. Linda will discuss the history of repression and resistance in the U.S., as well as specific issues faced by women in prison.

Jeff Luers- In June 2001, 23 year-old forest defense activist Jeff "Free" Luers was sentenced to over 22 years for the burning of three SUV’s in Eugene, Oregon as a statement on global warming. After serving close to 10 years, Jeff was released in 2009 following a successful appeal. He will share his experiences and the ways in which the loud voices of supporters were instrumental in his early release.

Karen Pickett- Long-time Earth First! activist Karen Pickett has been an inspired participant in the environmental struggle for years. She is a personal friend of Marie Mason and has continuously supported her since her arrest. Karen will discuss Marie’s case, their relationship, and ways in which we can demonstrate our solidarity with Marie.