10/15/21

Maddy and the Rest…,

This communication is in response to your questions in the posting on an article in Black and Pink Volume 12 issue 4.  

#1 I am currently assigned to a simple porter job and use it as a refuge. I in no way want to give over my labor to my oppressors. I have had some pretty heavy job assignments where I was clearly being exploited and had to suffer the danger and harassment that comes along with the job. And of course the danger was usually caused or exacerbated by staff.

#2 I would want to know that even if a prisoner is not assigned to a job, program, or education class, he/she is a slave. Our bodies, identities, and dignity are held captive to uphold an expedient justice system.

#3 The Abolition Amendment is long past due. The original Thirteenth Amendment is an outrage and was obviously classist and racist in its intent. Just as the statues of prominent confederate leaders are being toppled, the Thirteenth Amendment needs to be toppled.

#4 I do want to be active in the campaign, but with caution. I am running an education ‘self-help’ group called “Bending Towards Justice” that I put together to promote social consciousness and cultural literacy. It is also an alternative to the state worshiping, atomized, and politically gutted programs prevalent in prisons. I’d love to integrate your work and ideas into the curriculum. So, if you have any good self-contained literature/articles you can share let me know. I am currently putting together a transformative justice/abolitionist section of the curriculum.

#5 Unfortunately I do not have reception at this prison. I used to listen to KPFA out of Berkeley CA that is syndicated and on-line. Shows of interest include Upfront, Hard Knock radio, Letters and Politics, and Flash points. All thoughtful cutting edge journalism and political activism.

Thank you for your efforts. 

Sincerely.
Thomas R.