(PHOTO: Artwork displayed at Herman Wallace’s memorial service. See
more photos of the memorial service by Ann Harkness.)
Featured below is the full text of an action alert for Albert Woodfox, released today by Amnesty International, timed to build public pressure in the days leading up to Albert’s oral arguments in New Orleans on Tuesday, January 7.
The hearing is scheduled for Tuesday’s morning session beginning at 9am in the En Banc Courtroom (room 209 of the 5th Circuit at 600 Camp Street in New Orleans) and is open to the public.
For those of you who were with us in March of 2009 when Albert’s second overturned conviction appeal was heard, you may remember that the US Court of Appeals has very strict rules. Here is a reminder of what to expect if you do plan on attending:
1. The courtroom only holds 50 people on a first come, first serve basis, so although the argument may not start right at 9am, it’s a good idea to get there early in the morning to make sure you get a seat.
2. No buttons, T-shirts or signs of any kind are allowed inside the courthouse.
3. Dress formally and expect to be searched. No cellphones or electronic devices of any kind are allowed.
4. Finally, Federal Marshals are allowed to remove spectators for even the most minor of perceived slights or disruptions. So please be extra careful to not talk, whisper, or communicate with each other once you step foot in the courtroom.
TODAY’S ACTION ALERT FROM AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL:
This could be the end of Albert Woodfox’s 40-year plus prison nightmare, if you act now.
On Tuesday morning, Jan. 7, the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans will hold a hearing to determine Albert’s fate. Will they finally act on the 2013 ruling that overturned his conviction and set him free, or shut the door and send him back to another unthinkable year in solitary confinement?
Federal courts have overturned Albert’s conviction 3 times. The state of Louisiana has appealed 3 times.
Enough is enough.
Tell the state of Louisiana to end its campaign of vengeance and let Albert go.
Nothing can justify the cruel treatment that Louisiana authorities have inflicted on Albert, one of the famed Angola 3 prisoners.
For decades, the authorities have punished Albert with solitary confinement. He’s survived 40 years living in a tiny cell for 23 hours a day, denied meaningful human contact and rehabilitation.
In a deeply flawed verdict, Albert was convicted of murder even though no physical evidence ties him to the crime, the state lost potentially exculpatory evidence, and authorities bribed their key witness.
Albert maintains he was put in solitary confinement in retaliation for organizing prisoners against segregation and other abuses in Louisiana State Penitentiary, also known as “Angola”.
It’s simply unconscionable for the state to hold this man one day longer.
Please help Amnesty International demand freedom for Albert Woodfox.
Please take action before the Jan. 7 hearing.
Thanks for standing by Albert, and for all you do to defend human dignity for all.
Sincerely,
Jasmine Heiss
Campaigner, Individuals and Communities at Risk
Amnesty International USA