#politicalprisoners

[harl5150]

Sarah Krivanek, my gal, you have got to be grateful! Yes it took our country's government a minute to get you back but you are free now. I understand that it is more than frustrating when you're in a hopeless state of mind and it seems that no one is coming to your aid but, when that relief of breath finally shows out and you experience divine release you have got to appreciate the cut of control. As a revised criminal, I feel where you're coming from, maybe not quite the depth but I do sympathize, don't allow them to break your spirit, that is one thing they cannot ever take from you, I always advise my fellow humans of this when they're also facing incarceration, you are a warrior! Prayers and remember, the system loves NO ONE. 🙌🏽🪶🍂💨🧘🏽‍♂️💚🔒💯 #SarahKrivanek #PoliticalPrisoners #Captive #Politics #News #CurrentEvents #ABCNews #BrittneyGriner #PaulWhelan #Writing #Blogging #Opininion #POV #positivevibes #prayers #American #UnitedStatesOfAmerica #USA #FreeLeonardPeltier #AIM #HarlanGurrola https://www.instagram.com/p/Cmem5fEpJ8_/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[usnewsper-politics]

Inside Russia's Arctic Prison: Alexei Navalny's Fight for Justice #AlexeiNavalny #Arcticprison #corruption #criminaljusticesystem #dangerouscriminals #harshconditions #humanrightsabuses #isolation #limitedaccesstomedicalcare #maximumsecurityfacility #overcrowdedcells #physicalabuse #PolarWolf #politicalprisoners #poorsanitation #PresidentVladimirPutinsregime #prisonsystem #protectinghumanrights #psychologicalabuse #Russianoppositionleader #treatmentofprisoners

[tmarshconnors]

Free Jimmy Lai!

Recent years, the world has witnessed the suppression of free speech and the stifling of democratic values in various regions. One prominent figure caught in the crossfire is Jimmy Lai, a Hong Kong media tycoon and pro-democracy activist. Lai's unwavering commitment to the principles of freedom and democracy has led to his imprisonment, sparking global concern about the erosion of basic human rights. As advocates for a free and open society, it is crucial to rally support for the release of Jimmy Lai.

Since his arrest in August 2020, Mr Lai has been held in solitary confinement in a maximum-security prison for more than 1,000 days. The trial, which has been delayed for a year, is expected to last for about 80 days.

We have a responsibility to stand up against the erosion of democratic values and the suppression of basic human rights. Governments, activists, and citizens worldwide must unite in calling for the immediate release of Jimmy Lai. International pressure is crucial in demonstrating that the world is watching and will not tolerate the suppression of those who advocate for freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.

Jimmy Lai serves as a stark reminder that the fight for freedom and democracy is ongoing. Advocates for human rights, press freedom, and democracy must come together to demand the release of Jimmy Lai and condemn the actions that led to his imprisonment. By doing so, we send a powerful message that the world stands united in its commitment to protecting fundamental rights and values for all.

[goldiers1]

Blinken Thanks State Dept Workforce Who Resettled 222 Nicaraguan Political Prisoners

    Transcript of the Speech

SECRETARY BLINKEN:  Well, this is really a moment to just drop the mic and leave because – (laughter) – a few things I wanted to share with all of you, but I think the first and most important is this:  Moments like this are important.  We don’t usually take the time, even half an hour, 45 minutes, to just press pause and reflect on something that we’ve done, because there’s just too much to do. And the inboxes are overflowing, and it’s always move, move, move.  But it is important to do that because when we’re at our best, as each of you has been in this extraordinary chapter, it really is worth reflecting on.  And I hope that it inspires, energizes, encourages each of us to keep going, to keep doing this, to keep with this calling that has drawn all of us together in this incredible enterprise. Erin said something that is I think very powerful and it’s that we get called upon to do lots of things in our careers here at State, other agencies.  But there’re not that many moments when you can really say and see directly that something you have done has actually changed someone’s life, and changed it for the better. There’s usually too many points of connection along the way to really see it and really feel it, but the experience that each of you has had – in this instance, I hope really makes that connection, makes it powerful, and is something that you’ll take with you throughout your careers and throughout your lives no matter what you do going forward.  It’s simply the most powerful thing that we occasionally have an opportunity to do, and it really is worth reflecting on. Tressa, my friend, my travel companion, colleague, this is the epitome of the person here who runs into the burning building every single time, no matter how challenging it is, and gets the job done.  And we’ve seen that again and again.  I’m so grateful once again to you for your incredible leadership in this instance. The extraordinary team of volunteers – and that was a hugely important word, volunteers – that Mike shared with us.  That just inspires me tremendously because, again, I’ve seen it time and again in this department.  When we’ve had an urgency, when we’ve had an emergency situation, when we’ve had a daunting challenge, people have been raising their hands. They’ve been standing up.  And they’ve been running – you’ve been running – into the building, and that makes a huge difference.  Your determination, your skill, your heart, which is also very apparent in the stories that we’ve heard from Katherine, from Marta, from Josh, from Hannah, from Gail, from Michael – that truly is inspiring to me as well. And to everyone who is joining us today, including folks who are online, as well as everyone here in person, thank you for everything that you’ve done; and thank you for sharing the stories.  We know that for each of the six stories, seven stories that we just heard, there are hundreds more – from across the U.S. Government, from across NGOs – from people who stepped up to welcome the 222. And I hope that in some way, as well, we’ll find a way to collect some of those stories and maybe share them with colleagues because – again, I think it’s going to be incredibly inspiring to them. But these doctors, these political leaders, these journalists, these priests, these others who all came together and found themselves together – as a result of your work – on that plane, they had one thing that connected them, one overriding aspiration, and that was to simply exercise their fundamental freedoms and to try to safeguard the freedom of their fellow citizens. Tragically, in Ortega’s Nicaragua, that’s a crime.  It’s why these activists were imprisoned for months and sometimes years; denied visits from their loved ones.  Many were held in harsh conditions, little access to sunlight, to fresh air, writing materials, books.  One prisoner recalled reading and re-reading the label on a tube of toothpaste. And as you’ve heard, living with that constant fear that you could be pulled into another cell to be beaten up, to be tortured – the constant fear that you might even be executed.  Living with that, every single day, is its own kind of horrific torture. But it’s precisely because of the power of their message, their actions, the alternative vision that they have for their own country and the way it should treat its own people – it’s exactly why the regime stripped them of their citizenship soon after they came to the United States. That too speaks volumes.  But it’s also why we felt compelled to do what we could to bring them to safety.  And it’s why the work that all of you did – and did together – was so important. Now, that work began, in large part, with our colleagues in Embassy Managua who negotiated with the Nicaraguan Government, creating a system to ensure that each of 222 prisoners was accounted for, and – when the moment finally came, during the early morning hours of February 9th – physically escorting them to the airplane and then to their freedom. Katherine talked about the – waiting for that final confirmation, and I know that’s excruciating.  And as this was all happening, and Brian and Erin and others were keeping me informed of what was going on, I have to admit, I wasn’t so sure this was really going to come together. I had a funny feeling, oh, this is going to fall apart.  It seems almost – almost too good to be true, but too good to be true because so much work actually goes into this.  These things don’t just happen.  It takes the incredible effort that started in Managua to actually get it done. From there, more than 350 – more than 350 of our colleagues from the U.S. Government, as well as partners from the state of Virginia, NGOs – you all took over. You worked around the clock, you worked through the weekend, reuniting prisoners with their loved ones.  You interpreted for them.  You provided them with food, with clothing, with healthcare.  You helped them through the jarring process of starting a new life far from their homes and their communities. And what I heard also in the stories that were told is I think you all responded in a powerfully human way, because I imagine as you’re there with someone who has just had this absolute sea change in their life, you’re thinking and feeling and understanding how totally jarring and disorienting that is – even in this incredibly positive way. And the humanity that you showed as fellow human beings in helping them navigate this particular passage – that in and of itself was hugely important. And indeed, it wasn’t just what you did, it’s how you did it: with care, with compassion, by asking each of our Nicaraguan friends how are you doing, are you okay, what do you need – probably a question they hadn’t been asked in a long, long time.  By arriving at the tarmac with American colleagues that they knew from the past, they were welcomed by familiar faces.  And Marta, I know that must have had a powerful impact on them as well. As one of the volunteers put it, “The whole operation was successful because we all cared too much to accept anything less.” Now, because of this work, our Nicaraguan friends are beginning new lives across more than two dozen U.S. states, some now moving on to other countries as well.  Some have already jumped back into activism – no surprise – rallying international support and pressure for a better future for their country at the United Nations, the Organization of American States, the Summit for Democracy just this week. At the summit, we heard some of these voices.  Others are starting the process of opening new businesses, continuing their studies, getting on with their lives that were so violently interrupted by the Nicaraguan regime. Now, in the months ahead, we have our NGO partners that will continue to support the recent arrivals’ relocation.  We have our embassy colleagues who will work to reunify family members in Nicaragua with their newly settled family members in the United States.  So, this process goes forward.  It carries on. And at the same time, for us, a government, we’ll join our partners across the hemisphere and around the world to continue to push for a return to democracy and respect for human rights in Nicaragua, while also using all of the diplomatic and economic tools that we have to try to promote accountability for the widespread abuses from the regime. So, in a very small period of time, in a very intense way, you gave us a reminder of who we are when we’re at our best – which is not every day, but it was in the days that you were engaged in this mission: a country that stands with those on the side of freedom and human rights, and fights for our democratic values around the world.  You’ve demonstrated that with your service; you’ve demonstrated that with your dedication. So, I’m so glad we just had a few moments together, again, to press the pause button, to reflect a little bit on what each of you has done, and to take that with you going forward because this career that all of you have been called to in a variety of ways, I know a lot of days can be frustrating. I know we pile on the work.  The inbox gets higher, the resources seem to get – to shrink, and we’re working on all of that.  And I know there are days for each of us when we say, is it worth it?  Maybe I should be doing something else. I hope and I believe strongly that this experience is a reminder of what an incredible pursuit this is, what an incredible responsibility we all have, but also what an incredible privilege it is to actually work for, represent your country, and try to make sure that the country that we love and share and the department that we love and share is actually operating at its best.  In this instance it was because you were. And I just wanted to thank you on behalf of the President and as a fellow American.  Thanks for exemplary work.  Thanks for your service to our country. Thank you.   Sources: THX News & US Dept. of State. Read the full article

[undergroundusa]

The United State’s Dance With Political Persecution

[fliptheswitchbro]

..."Those are the facts your Honor."

"Mhmm.."

"Stand Up!"

"How do you plea?"

"Guilty Sir"

"Do you have anything to say for yourself?"

"No, your Honor"

"That's fine with me."

"The Crown's requesting you are to serve 180 days. Seeing as the Crown has already agreed to this as part of A joined submission, In exchange for your plea, I am going to allow your sentence to be served in the community. Although I would not be favour of such lenience."

I was relieved to be out of the courtroom, but still very anxious.

I could not head home. Not untill my paperwork ready. They would need me to sign them, stating that I understood the conditions of my sentence. They then would hand me a duplicate copy of the order.

I returned to my apartment complex. I was now imprisoned within my home. Anxiety was high over the next few days. I had to to be out of the apartment before September First, and had with me only the essentials. Everything of mine was already waiting at the cabin. I was very anxious, very excited.

The summer went by slow that year. I wasn't quite flush with cash, but I managed to get by, get high, and got to see most of my friends atleast a few times.

The summer Blockbusters were "killing it" in theaters. The new IronMan had just finished playing in theaters, Spider Man far from home was about bring the storyline to another dimension, and Quentin Tarantino's new movie: ' Once Upon A Time in Hollywood ' was expected to a cinematic masterpiece. Everyone had much to live for. There were so many things happening, and even more to look forward to.

[lisablasstudio]

Monday's image: February 19, 2024

Pearl Perlmuter, Political prisoner, Terracotta, plaster, paint, 50.5 x 39 x 27 centimeters, 1951, Kröller-Müller Museum, The Netherlands

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[killer-fun-podcast]

We are BACK and we DOVE into what some have called Killing Eve’s replacement: Kleo (Netflix). The shows share some characteristics - communist ties and kick-ass women assassins - but the anti-heroes of the shows are quite different, particularly with their motivations. From Big Eden to Happy Birthday, there is a lot to chat about. Email us: KillerFunPodcast@gmail.com Follow us on Facebook: fb.me/KillerFunPodcast All the Tweets: http://twitter.com/KillerFunPod Instagram: killerfunpodcast

[libertyvigil]

instead of just being appalled by the long sentences given by the russian government for relatively minor resistance, and being intimidated by tactics designed to induce fear and suppress protest, Russians need to be inspired by the men and women who stand up to the regime and to follow in their footsteps.

If they truly love their country, they will sacrifice to change it for the better and uproot the evil strangling it.

[usnewsper-politics]

Nicaragua's Ortega accused of using political prisoners as bargaining chip #CivilWar #humanrights #nicaragua #Ortega #politicalprisoners

[tmarshconnors]

Freedom for Alexey Navalny

After reading the article "Alexei Navalny: Russian opposition leader reappears in Arctic penal colony" I had to write this blog.

The world has witnessed the relentless pursuit of justice and democracy by individuals who are willing to stand up against corruption and authoritarianism. One such figure is Alexey Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition leader and anti-corruption activist. Navalny has been a vocal critic of the Russian government and its leadership, exposing instances of corruption and advocating for political change. However, his efforts to bring about positive change have come at a great personal cost. Currently serving a prison sentence in Russia, Navalny's plight has become a symbol of the ongoing struggle for human rights and freedom in the country.

The Story of Alexey Navalny:

Alexey Navalny rose to prominence through his fearless exposés on corruption within the Russian government. His investigations targeted powerful figures, uncovering embezzlement, fraud, and other illicit activities. Navalny's efforts gained widespread support both domestically and internationally, as people rallied behind his calls for accountability and transparency.

Despite facing numerous legal challenges and attempts to silence him, Navalny continued to be a formidable force for change. His influence reached new heights during the 2020 poisoning incident, where he fell gravely ill after being exposed to a nerve agent. Navalny's recovery and subsequent return to Russia only reinforced his commitment to the fight against corruption and his dedication to a democratic future for his country.

Navalny's arrest in January 2021, upon his return to Russia, sparked global outrage and calls for his immediate release. The charges against him, widely seen as politically motivated, have been condemned by human rights organizations and governments around the world. Many argue that his imprisonment is a clear violation of freedom of speech and a direct assault on political opposition within Russia.

This blog post is a call to action, urging the Russian Federation to release Alexey Navalny and respect the principles of democracy and human rights. It is crucial for the international community to unite in condemning the suppression of dissent and advocating for the freedom of individuals like Navalny who courageously speak out against corruption and injustice.

The international community has a vital role to play in holding the Russian government accountable for its actions. Diplomatic pressure, economic sanctions, and public advocacy can contribute to raising awareness about Navalny's case and pushing for his release. Governments, NGOs, and concerned individuals must work together to ensure that human rights are upheld and that individuals like Navalny can contribute to a more open and democratic society.

The struggle for freedom and democracy is ongoing, and the case of Alexey Navalny is a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by those who dare to speak truth to power. By raising our voices collectively, we can send a powerful message to the Russian government that the world is watching and that the principles of justice and human rights must prevail. It is time to stand in solidarity with Alexey Navalny and all those who strive for a more just and transparent future for Russia and the world.

[gkingmusik]

Nnamdi Kanu Remains The Only Political Prisoner In Nigeria – IPOB Written by Kelechi Ofor

[bondvagabond]

1954 #art by vagabond © What better way to kick off #InternationalWomensDay than with #LolitaLebron and the March 1st attack on the US house of Congress in 1954...? March 1st 1954 Four #PuertoRican #Nationalists attack the US Congress on March 1st of 1954 to draw attention to the struggle for #independence of Puerto Rico from US #colonialism... They were Andres Figueroa Cordero, Raphael Cancel Miranda, and Irving Flores are led by a woman Lolita Lebron... The got into the House of Congress unfurled a Puerto Rican flag and started shooting at Congressmen... 5 congressmen were hurt... Andres, Rafa,and Irving were captured and senteced to 75 years in prison and Lolita was sentenced to 50 years in prison... #PresidentCarter commuted their sentences in 1979 - after they had served 25 years... Lolita Lebron was the longest held woman #PoliticalPrisoner in the world... Contrast this to the #January6th attack on the Congress where people died and you'll see the #racist, classist, double standard in terms of #sentencing... #FreePuertoRico #InternationalWomensDay #RICANSTRUCTION #War #BobMarley #vagabond https://www.instagram.com/p/CpQUefapLcQ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[yolandamarie]

The Belmarsh Tribunal D.C. — The Case of Julian Assange

On January 20, 2023, Democracy Now! is livestreaming the Belmarsh Tribunal from Washington, D.C. The event will feature expert testimony from journalists, whistleblowers, lawyers, publishers and parliamentarians on assaults to press freedom and the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution.

[sandeeprajbharji]

माननीय श्री ओमप्रकाश राजभर जी, विधानसभा जखनियां से सुभासपा विधायक माननीय श्री बेदी राम जी ने हंसराजपुर जनपद गाज़ीपुर स्थित कार्यालय पर कार्यकर्ताओं संग मिलकर भव्य स्वागत एवं अभिनंदन किया! #sandeeprajbharji #rajbharji #sbsp #oprajbhar #politicalprisoner https://www.instagram.com/p/Cm-n7aWp-4X/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=