Call for Weekend of Resistance Against the "Green Scare" June 9 - 11, 2006

international | environment | press release Tuesday March 14, 2006 04:07 by Jeff Luers - Friends of Jeff 'Free' Luers freefreenow at mutualaid dot org

For the past few years the weekend of June 11 was typically a time when we reflected on Jeff Free Luers' 22.5 year sentence and held events to recognize the anniversary of his incarceration. This year Jeff writes below that he wishes this year to focus on the Green Scare co-defendants. Please plan an event now! It's only 3 months away. And keep reading...

This June marks my 6th year in prison. From behind these walls I have strived to remain an active part of this struggle; from contributing to the dialogue and discussion of tactics, to furthering the debate on climate change in the public. Perhaps most importantly I am proof that prison cannot crush the spirit of resistance.

This year has seen an increase in state repression against activists and radicals alike. It is truly a scary time. We all know about the "Red Scare" - the government's attempt to justify repression by labeling dissidents "communists" back in the 1950's. Today we see their "Green Scare" attempt to crush resistance by labeling them "eco-terrorists."

For the last three years, June 11th has been celebrated as an international day of solidarity with me, Jeffrey Luers. I have been overjoyed with a sense of love & pride at the support I have received from around the world. My deepest and sincerest thanks go out to all of you.

Right now there are more than a dozen people sitting in American jails (or on strict bail release) accused of Earth/Animal Liberation Front actions. Six people were originally arrested. These arrests were based almost entirely on the testimony of one police informant, Jacob Ferguson. Bill Rodgers - accused of multiple arsons - took his own life in a jail cell. Unfortunately, several of those arrested are now cooperating with the state. These defendants are facing ridiculous charges and a draconian amount of time.

This June, I ask you to show them the solidarity that you have shown me. I ask that foremost in your mind be the thought that the state is trying to break this struggle with repressive and intimidating arrests and sentences. I hope you understand that it's not just those of us in prison being punished with these sentences; they are designed to be examples to you, to frighten you into compliance. This June I'm asking you to demonstrate that you can't be intimidated. Celebrate your dissent, give it voice. Be loud. Be visible. If you have the ability, organize a reclaim the streets party or a critical mass.

If you are going to host a fundraiser or venue event, I ask that you donate all proceeds to the legal defense of those recently arrested who maintain integrity in the face of repression, whether they are innocent or guilty.

This June, show the world that the voice of truth will not be silenced by fear.
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Contact Friends of Jeff Luers, PO Box 3, Eugene, OR 97440 USA
or email freefreenow@mutualaid.org for organizing resources.
http://www.freefreenow.org/june2006.htm

June 9 - 11, 2006, is a Weekend of Resistance Against the Green Scare.
There is no central organizing body or group to check in with but the Jeff
Luers Support Network can help by providing you with flyers, graphics, and
merchandise such as videos, zines and stickers about Jeff and allies in
the struggle. Begin planning your event now and let us know the details.

Read more about the Green Scare defendants at
http://freefreenow.org/greenscare.htm

For information about the 2006 Weekend of Resistance:
http://www.freefreenow.org/june2006.htm