Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Monday, December 14, 2015
Never Silenced, Herman Wallace's Spirit is Smiling --An interview with filmmaker Angad Singh Bhalla
Never Silenced, Herman Wallace's Spirit is Smiling
--An interview with filmmaker Angad Singh Bhalla
By Angola 3 News
Canadian filmmaker Angad Singh Bhalla has never shied away from examining politically controversial topics. Nor does he play down his own artistic goal of using media to foster political change. Bhalla's first independent work, entitled U.A.I.L. Go Back amplified the voices of Indian villagers resisting an alumina project backed by the Canadian company Alcan. The film became an important organizing tool used to pressure Alcan into ending its involvement in the project.
Bhalla has since co-founded Time of Day Media.and while working as a community organizer for immigrant rights, he produced videos for the Service Employees International Union, Working America, the Center for Constitutional Rights and other groups. His award-winning short on the lives of Indian street artists, Writings on the Wall, was broadcast on Canada’s Bravo! and Al Jazeera English.
Bhalla's debut feature documentary was the 2012 film Herman’s House, about Herman Wallace of the Angola 3 and the collaborative project Wallace worked on with artist Jackie Sumell, entitled The House That Herman Built. The film screened at more than 40 festivals, was distributed theatrically in the US and Canada, and won an Emmy Award for its 2013 POV broadcast on PBS.
In this interview, filmmaker Angad Singh Bhalla discusses his latest film, The Deeper They Bury Me, while also reflecting upon his 2012 film Herman's House, his personal relationship with Wallace and more. Bhalla concludes the interview with a focus on the call by Amnesty International and the International Coalition to Free the Angola 3 for the immediate release of Albert Woodfox, who is the last of the Angola 3 behind bars. Despite three overturned convictions, Woodfox remains in prison and in solitary confinement, where he was first placed over 43 years ago.
(VIDEO: Coverage of the panel discussion following a recent screening of The Deeper They Bury Me at the 53rd New York Film Festival. Photos from this event by Lindsey Seide/NFB are featured below alongside still images taken from the film itself.)
Monday, December 7, 2015
New Orleans, Dec. 12: Art for Rights / Write for Rights, Amnesty Intl. event with Robert King and BMike
Join Amnesty International USA in New Orleans on December 12, from 10am to 6pm, to celebrate art, human rights and international solidarity. As part of the organization’s annual “Write for Rights” campaign, Amnesty International USA is partnering with New Orleans native, Brandan “BMike” Odums to host an “Art for Rights” pop-up exhibition at Studio Be, 2925-2999 Royal Street in New Orleans. Attendees will not only have the opportunity to write letters on behalf of prisoners and human rights defenders from around the world, they will witness the creation of 12 different murals honoring the struggles and activism of individuals on whose behalf Amnesty works.
Art can be a cultural tool during times of unrest to expose truths, helping to humanize social struggle and actualize grievances and fears. Often, it is what inspires us to action.
Amnesty has chosen to hold the inaugural event in New Orleans where Albert Woodfox, one of the 12 cases featured in this year’s Write for Rights campaign, has been held in solitary confinement for over 40 years.
Robert King, the first freed member of the Angola 3, will be joining BMike as the keynote speaker.
Art For Rights
Saturday, December 12th, 2015
10am – 6pm
StudioBe
2925-2999 Royal Street
New Orleans, LA
MORE INFORMATION:
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
A3 Newsletter: From the Louvre to Louisiana
While the National and International community rally to the support of Albert Woodfox, time seems to have stood still in Louisiana where the long struggle to achieve freedom for Albert Woodfox after four decades in solitary confinement for a crime he did not commit drags on nearly three years after a federal judge once again overturned Albert's conviction.
In France, the newly released " Cruel and Unusual" updates "In the Land of the Free" and digs more deeply into the arcane mode of punishment that reaches new levels of abuse in the United States- decades of solitary confinement and the results there of.
Meanwhile, Amnesty chapters both nationally and internationally urge their members to Write for the Rights of political prisoners with a special focus on twelve prisoners world-wide, including Albert Woodfox. There will be kick off events globally and Robert King will be urging letter writers on via Skyped interviews with student sections in Holland and the U.S.
As the year draws to a close, a year we were certain we would see Albert released- we pray for many things- world peace, homes for the dispossessed everywhere and freedom from fear, racism and hatred at home and abroad and finally, finally, finally.... freedom for Albert Woodfox and the too many political and economic prisoners held in gulags around the country.
In France, the newly released " Cruel and Unusual" updates "In the Land of the Free" and digs more deeply into the arcane mode of punishment that reaches new levels of abuse in the United States- decades of solitary confinement and the results there of.
Meanwhile, Amnesty chapters both nationally and internationally urge their members to Write for the Rights of political prisoners with a special focus on twelve prisoners world-wide, including Albert Woodfox. There will be kick off events globally and Robert King will be urging letter writers on via Skyped interviews with student sections in Holland and the U.S.
As the year draws to a close, a year we were certain we would see Albert released- we pray for many things- world peace, homes for the dispossessed everywhere and freedom from fear, racism and hatred at home and abroad and finally, finally, finally.... freedom for Albert Woodfox and the too many political and economic prisoners held in gulags around the country.
Thursday, November 19, 2015
Amnesty Intl. USA's "Write for Rights" campaign focuses on Albert Woodfox, calling for his immediate release
(Amnesty International artwork)
Today, in conjunction with the "Write for Rights" campaign, Amnesty International USA issued an email action alert focusing on Albert Woodfox, where Amnesty reiterated the organization's call for Albert's immediate release.
Along with urging supporters to add their name to Amnesty's online petition to Louisiana Attorney General James Caldwell, Amnesty is also asking people to write letters to both AG Caldwell and to Albert, with a sample letter and other information available here.
On November 7, a protest march in support of Albert was held in London, England. The following week, following the US Fifth Circuit Court's ruling that Albert can face a third trial, both Amnesty USA and UK issued responses.
Featured below and reprinted in full, is today's email alert sent out by Amnesty USA Senior Campaigner Jasmine Heiss:
There is no other way to describe what's happening to Albert Woodfox - he is trapped in a nightmare.
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
A3 Newsletter: Court Rules Albert Woodfox Can Be Retried a Third Time
PHOTO: A 'cardboard cutout' of Albert Woodfox is displayed in downtown London, England during a November 7 protest march organized by Amnesty International UK. If you have not yet done so, please take action by joining Amnesty's call to "Free Albert Woodfox!"
US 5th Circuit Court Reverses Judge Brady in Bitterly Divided 2-1 Decision
Like Albert, many of you probably awoke to the news that yesterday evening a bitterly divided panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals reversed Judge Brady's June 8th unconditional Writ ordering his release and barring a retrial.
Albert's conviction will remain overturned, but there is no longer any doubt that he will be retried a third time by the State of Louisiana, only miles from the solitary cell where he's spent the bulk of his life.
In a stunning dissent, printed in its entirety below, Judge James Dennis passionately argued against the majority for Albert's freedom--sharing both Judge Brady's view of the exceptional injustice represented by this case and his "lack of confidence in the State to provide a fair third trial."
Monday, September 21, 2015
Reportback on Albert Woodfox's Hearing Today in Louisiana State Court, w/ Amnesty International USA Statement
MEDIA COVERAGE: NOLA Times-Picayune Sept. 21 and Sept. 22 (also before the hearing) II ABA Journal II Common Dreams II KSL / AP II ABC / AP II Truthout on Herman's House
A3 Newsletter: Judge Rules for DNA Testing and Fingerprint Analysis but Against the Change of Venue and Dismissing the Case
This morning in St. Francisville Judge Carmichael of West Feliciana Parish's 20th Judicial District Court made the first determinations about what the legal landscape will look like if Judge Brady's "unconditional Writ" is overturned and Albert faces a third trial.
The good news is that the judge agreed to require a unanimous jury decision, to allow DNA testing of all evidence still in the State's possession that may contain adequate sample sizes for modern analysis, and to give Albert's defense team access to any fingerprint files the State possesses from Angola at the time of the murder. He also agreed to give Albert's defense team a chance to privately review (under seal) letters from the latest grand jury foreperson expressing "serious misgivings" about the "process" in order to assess whether or not the most recent indictment itself, hastily obtained in February of 2015 before the federal appeals process had fully played out, may have once again been improperly obtained.
Overall though, it was not a good day for Albert, or for justice, in St. Francisville. In a curt, 45 minute hearing (originally scheduled for two full days) the judge rejected a solid majority of Albert's 16 pre-trial motions designed to create a fair evidentiary and procedural playing field for any potential retrial. Albert's motion to quash, change the venue, and run the print evidence through the FBI's expanded AFIS database were all quite unceremoniously denied. Critically, so were Albert's requests to exclude all the now impeached, debunked, and discredited testimony presented at previous trials by Hezekiah Brown and the State's other key witnesses. Though Albert will be allowed to present impeachment evidence to a new jury, the jurors will never able to see how these now deceased witnesses respond and react on the stand when confronted with their own lies, obfuscations, and omissions from previous testimony.
A3 Newsletter: Judge Rules for DNA Testing and Fingerprint Analysis but Against the Change of Venue and Dismissing the Case
This morning in St. Francisville Judge Carmichael of West Feliciana Parish's 20th Judicial District Court made the first determinations about what the legal landscape will look like if Judge Brady's "unconditional Writ" is overturned and Albert faces a third trial.
The good news is that the judge agreed to require a unanimous jury decision, to allow DNA testing of all evidence still in the State's possession that may contain adequate sample sizes for modern analysis, and to give Albert's defense team access to any fingerprint files the State possesses from Angola at the time of the murder. He also agreed to give Albert's defense team a chance to privately review (under seal) letters from the latest grand jury foreperson expressing "serious misgivings" about the "process" in order to assess whether or not the most recent indictment itself, hastily obtained in February of 2015 before the federal appeals process had fully played out, may have once again been improperly obtained.
Overall though, it was not a good day for Albert, or for justice, in St. Francisville. In a curt, 45 minute hearing (originally scheduled for two full days) the judge rejected a solid majority of Albert's 16 pre-trial motions designed to create a fair evidentiary and procedural playing field for any potential retrial. Albert's motion to quash, change the venue, and run the print evidence through the FBI's expanded AFIS database were all quite unceremoniously denied. Critically, so were Albert's requests to exclude all the now impeached, debunked, and discredited testimony presented at previous trials by Hezekiah Brown and the State's other key witnesses. Though Albert will be allowed to present impeachment evidence to a new jury, the jurors will never able to see how these now deceased witnesses respond and react on the stand when confronted with their own lies, obfuscations, and omissions from previous testimony.
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
A3 Newsletter: Albert Woodfox Takes First Steps Towards Retrial in State Court on Sept. 21 in St. Francisville, LA
A3 Newsletter: A Third Chance for Justice in State Court - The Critical Importance of Setting the Right Evidentiary and Procedural Scene for a Fair Retrial
Though it is an incredibly unusual, and often confusing situation, the legal reality is that Albert is fighting for permanent, unconditional release concurrently on two separate legal tracks - one in federal and the other in state court. As we all wait to hear whether the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will uphold federal Judge Brady's June 8th "unconditional Writ," a third attempt to prosecute Albert in state court for the crime he continues to maintain he's innocent of is already, simultaneously, underway.
Next Monday, September 21st at 9:30am at the Courthouse in St. Francisville, the state court track will take a huge leap forward as Judge Carmichael of West Feliciana Parish's 20th Judicial District Court decides what a new playing field will look like after each side presents what they believe to be the key ingredients needed to ensure a just potential third trial.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Reportback on Albert Woodfox's Sept. 2 Oral Arguments at US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals
IN THE NEWS: NOLA Times Picayune (1, 2) II The Advocate II Shreveport Times II ABC / AP II WRAL / AP II Toronto Sun / Reuters II Second Reuters article
(PHOTO: A3 supporters outside of the US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans this morning at Albert Woodfox's oral arguments. Big Thanks to everyone that made it out!!)
This morning, Amnesty International USA released the following statement, reprinted in full.
Please check back here for more updates later in the day. See also our Facebook and Twitter pages.
Amnesty International USA Statement on Ongoing Incarceration of Albert Woodfox
Today, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in New Orleans heard oral argument in Albert Woodfox vs. Burl Cain. A three-judge panel will decide whether Louisiana prisoner Albert Woodfox should be granted unconditional release or face a third trial after spending more than four decades in solitary confinement.
(PHOTO: A3 supporters outside of the US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans this morning at Albert Woodfox's oral arguments. Big Thanks to everyone that made it out!!)
This morning, Amnesty International USA released the following statement, reprinted in full.
Please check back here for more updates later in the day. See also our Facebook and Twitter pages.
Amnesty International USA Statement on Ongoing Incarceration of Albert Woodfox
Today, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit in New Orleans heard oral argument in Albert Woodfox vs. Burl Cain. A three-judge panel will decide whether Louisiana prisoner Albert Woodfox should be granted unconditional release or face a third trial after spending more than four decades in solitary confinement.
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
A3 Newsletter: Join Us in New Orleans on Sept. 2nd for Albert Woodfox's Appeal Hearing
(PHOTO: A3 supporters gathered outside the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans at one of Albert's previous hearings, on Jan. 7, 2014.)
After a summer of back and forth briefing on paper, on Wednesday morning, September 2nd, in the East Courtroom a three-judge panel of the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans will hear oral arguments on whether Federal Judge James Brady's June 8th "unconditional writ" officially overturning Albert's conviction, ordering his release, and barring a retrial (a ruling he presented as "the only just remedy") will stand.
As usual, the public is welcome to attend. Though we don't know for sure what time our case will be heard, doors open at 8am and court convenes at 8:30am. Arguments are expected to be short (usually each side only gets about 45 minutes) and for those unable to attend audio recordings are posted on the 5th's website by close of business that same day.
A decision from that Court is expected sometime later this fall. If Judge Brady's ruling is upheld, Albert will be released and a retrial banned. If reversed, the Fifth Circuit does not have the power to reinstate Albert's overturned conviction, but can put limits on the terms of Judge Brady's Writ and release order.
Sunday, June 28, 2015
A3 Newsletter: The Beat Goes On
Healing Our Wounds: Restorative Justice Is Needed For Albert Woodfox, The Black Panther Party & The Nation --Law Professor Angela A. Allen-Bell interviewed by Angola 3 News
On Monday, June 8, 2015, US District Court Judge James Brady ruled that the Angola 3's Albert Woodfox be both immediately released and barred from a retrial. The next day, at the request of the Louisiana Attorney General, the US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a temporary stay of release set to expire on Friday, June 12.
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Healing Our Wounds: Restorative Justice Is Needed For Albert Woodfox, The Black Panther Party & The Nation --An Interview With Law Professor Angela A. Allen-Bell
(VIDEO: Prof. Bell interviewed by Sky News, following Judge Brady's ruling to immediately release Albert Woodfox. A stay on his release was ordered later that day by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals. Also be sure to watch her June 12 appearance on MSNBC's News Nation with Tamron Hall)
Healing Our Wounds: Restorative Justice Is Needed For Albert Woodfox, The Black Panther Party & The Nation
--An Interview With Law Professor Angela A. Allen-Bell
By Angola 3 News
On Monday, June 8, 2015, US District Court Judge James Brady ruled that the Angola 3's Albert Woodfox be both immediately released and barred from a retrial. The next day, at the request of the Louisiana Attorney General, the US Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a temporary stay of release set to expire on Friday, June 12.
As the week intensified following Judge Brady's ruling, both Albert Woodfox and his family, friends & supporters wondered if he would finally be released over 43 years after first being placed in solitary confinement. Amnesty International USA launched a petition calling on Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal to honor Judge Brady's ruling.
On June 9, US Congressman Cedric Richmond (LA-02) issued a statement declaring that "Attorney General Caldwell must respect the ruling of Judge Brady and grant Mr. Woodfox his release immediately...This is an obviously personal vendetta and has been a waste of tax payer dollars for decades. The state is making major cuts in education and healthcare but he has spent millions of dollars on this frivolous endeavor and the price tag is increasing by the day."
On June 11, eighteen members of the Louisiana House of Representatives voted unsuccessfully to pass a resolution (H.R. 208) urging Attorney General Caldwell to stop standing in the way of justice, withdraw his appeals, and let Judge Brady's unconditional writ and release ruling stand.
However, on Friday, June 12, the Court responded by scheduling oral arguments for late August and extending the stay of release at least until the time that the Court issues its ruling later in the Fall.
Friday, June 12, 2015
Albert Will Remain Behind Bars Pending Appeal --Justice Delayed is Justice Denied, But Not Forever (A3 Newsletter)
MEDIA COVERAGE: NOLA Times-Picayune II New Yorker II NPR interviews Prof Angela A. Allen-Bell II Hollywood Progressive: New A3 Feature Film II Huffington Post II CTV (Canada) / AP II Atlanta Black Star II Live Science
We are sad to report that the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has decided to continue the stay and block the release of Albert Woodfox until the State's appeal is heard (read articles by The Advocate and Washington Post).
Though it means some months before Albert will see his long overdue freedom realized, the court has granted an "expedited" status for the appeal. Oral Arguments are set for the week of August 31st. The State's written argument as to why they believe Judge Brady's order should be overturned is due on July 10th. Then Albert's team has three weeks to respond before the State is allowed a final rebuttal on August 7th.
We are sad to report that the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has decided to continue the stay and block the release of Albert Woodfox until the State's appeal is heard (read articles by The Advocate and Washington Post).
Though it means some months before Albert will see his long overdue freedom realized, the court has granted an "expedited" status for the appeal. Oral Arguments are set for the week of August 31st. The State's written argument as to why they believe Judge Brady's order should be overturned is due on July 10th. Then Albert's team has three weeks to respond before the State is allowed a final rebuttal on August 7th.
Thursday, June 11, 2015
A3 Newsletter: The Eve of Freedom?
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| (Artwork by Rigo 23) |
As we all wait anxiously for what tomorrow may bring, we thought like us, you may want to immerse yourself in some of the most powerful shows of support for Albert from around the world that have emerged in the last few extraordinary days since Judge Brady's heroic ruling.
An article written today by the Associated Press and featured by the New York Times asks: What Has Louisiana Got on the Last of the Angola Three? Answering their own question, the AP / NY Times writes: "Woodfox's long-simmering story has been the subject of documentaries, Peabody Award winning journalism, United Nations human rights reviews and even a theatrical play. It's a staggering tale of inconsistencies, witness recants, rigged jury pools, out-of-control prison violence, racial prejudice and political intrigue."
Take Action with Amnesty International! Act quickly: Albert Woodfox’s fate could be decided TOMORROW
Featured below, reprinted in full, is a new Amnesty International action alert for Albert Woodfox.
Please Take Action Here!
On Monday night, I heard news almost too incredible to believe: After four decades of hellish isolation, a federal judge ordered that Louisiana prisoner Albert Woodfox finally be unconditionally released and never re-tried by the State of Louisiana. After so many years in solitary confinement, Albert was set to walk free.
It marked the most promising development to date in Albert's case.
Please Take Action Here!
On Monday night, I heard news almost too incredible to believe: After four decades of hellish isolation, a federal judge ordered that Louisiana prisoner Albert Woodfox finally be unconditionally released and never re-tried by the State of Louisiana. After so many years in solitary confinement, Albert was set to walk free.
It marked the most promising development to date in Albert's case.
A Visit This Week With Albert Woodfox: "They Call Me The Last Man Standing"
June 19, 2015 Update: Read the follow-up article by the same author about her most recent visit with Albert
(This touching essay detailing a visit this week with Albert Woodfox is reprinted in full from the Why Am I Not Suprised? Blog.)
Albert Woodfox "They Call Me The Last Man Standing"
Five years and eleven months ago yesterday, I first laid eyes on Albert Woodfox. He was still in the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola then, where he had been locked up in solitary confinement almost continually since April of 1972. I had been a prison abolitionist myself for thirty-eight years at that point, so it was not surprising that we found each other. Despite the 6 X 9 foot cell in which he had been held so long, hundreds, maybe thousands, of people around the world had already found him before me. But unknown to him, when he turned 62 in February, 2009, I threw him a birthday party and invited students on the Louisiana university campus where I teach to come.
(This touching essay detailing a visit this week with Albert Woodfox is reprinted in full from the Why Am I Not Suprised? Blog.)
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| (PHOTO: Author with Albert Woodfox from a previous visit) |
Albert Woodfox "They Call Me The Last Man Standing"
Five years and eleven months ago yesterday, I first laid eyes on Albert Woodfox. He was still in the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola then, where he had been locked up in solitary confinement almost continually since April of 1972. I had been a prison abolitionist myself for thirty-eight years at that point, so it was not surprising that we found each other. Despite the 6 X 9 foot cell in which he had been held so long, hundreds, maybe thousands, of people around the world had already found him before me. But unknown to him, when he turned 62 in February, 2009, I threw him a birthday party and invited students on the Louisiana university campus where I teach to come.
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Fifth Circuit Issues Temporary Stay of Judge Brady's Ruling to Release Albert Woodfox
MEDIA COVERAGE: NY Times Editorial and In-Depth Article II Times-Picayune II The Independent UK II NPR II FOX News II The American Lawyer II Daily Mail UK II El Paso Times / AP II Washington Post II CNN II Agence France-Presse II Democracy Now! II The Root II ABC News / AP
The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has just issued a temporary stay of Judge Brady's order to give Albert's attorneys time to respond to the appeal.
Though there will be no freedom for Albert tonight, we remain confident that Judge Brady's ruling is rooted in strong legal precedent and that justice will finally prevail for Albert sooner than later.
We will do our best to keep you updated as things develop.
The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals has just issued a temporary stay of Judge Brady's order to give Albert's attorneys time to respond to the appeal.
Though there will be no freedom for Albert tonight, we remain confident that Judge Brady's ruling is rooted in strong legal precedent and that justice will finally prevail for Albert sooner than later.
We will do our best to keep you updated as things develop.
Monday, June 8, 2015
BREAKING!: Judge Brady orders Albert Woodfox's Unconditional Release & Retrial Banned!! (Stay Tuned for Updates)
MEDIA COVERAGE: CNN II Los Angeles Times II Times-Picayune II NY Times / AP & Toronto Star II Spiegel Online II BBC II Guardian UK II Amnesty International USA II Christian Science Monitor II
We are ecstatic to announce that late this afternoon Judge Brady granted the unicorn of habeas rulings--an "unconditional writ" ordering Albert's immediate release and barring a retrial.
He argues that this extraordinary remedy is merited due to the following 5 factors: "Mr. Woodfox's age and poor health, his limited ability to present a defense at a third trial in light of the unavailability of witnesses, this Court's lack of confidence in the State to provide a fair third trial, the prejudice done onto Mr. Woodfox by spending over forty-years in solitary confinement, and finally the very fact that Mr. Woodfox has already been tried twice and would otherwise face his third trial for a crime that occurred over forty years ago."
We are ecstatic to announce that late this afternoon Judge Brady granted the unicorn of habeas rulings--an "unconditional writ" ordering Albert's immediate release and barring a retrial.
He argues that this extraordinary remedy is merited due to the following 5 factors: "Mr. Woodfox's age and poor health, his limited ability to present a defense at a third trial in light of the unavailability of witnesses, this Court's lack of confidence in the State to provide a fair third trial, the prejudice done onto Mr. Woodfox by spending over forty-years in solitary confinement, and finally the very fact that Mr. Woodfox has already been tried twice and would otherwise face his third trial for a crime that occurred over forty years ago."
Friday, April 17, 2015
(A3 Newsletter) The Waiting Game: 43 Years of Innocence; Still Incarcerated; Still Isolated
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| (PHOTO: Albert Woodfox in 1998) |
Today marks 43 years since Albert Woodfox and Herman Wallace were first placed in solitary confinement for a crime they didn't commit. We now await a decision from Federal Judge James Brady regarding Albert's request for bail, expected any week.
Featured below are messages from both Albert and Robert King. New artwork by longtime A3 supporter Rigo 23 is displayed alongside a poem written by Albert back in 1998 entitled I Wait. Who could have imagined that 17 years later, in 2015, he would still be in solitary confinement, still waiting for justice?
If you have not yet done so, please sign the Amnesty USA petition calling on Louisiana authorities to not oppose bail for Albert!
Tuesday, April 7, 2015
A3 Newsletter: Baton Rouge Prayer Vigil on April 12 Marks the 43rd Year of Albert Woodfox's Solitary Nightmare
At 2PM on Sunday, April 12, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the Reverend Dr. Patricia T. Bates will be hosting a prayer vigil to mark Albert Woodfox's 43rd year in solitary confinement. Reverend Bates will be joined by Michael Mable, brother of Albert Woodfox, who will be speaking about how this injustice affects families.
Sponsored by the National Religious Campaign Against Torture, Sunday's vigil will be held at the Wesley United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall, 544 Government Street, Baton Rouge LA.
If you do not live in or around Baton Rouge and therefore cannot make it to the vigil, please send Albert a postcard in solidarity. Let him know that he is in your thoughts, that you care about him and that A3 supporters outside the prison walls are still here fighting for his immediate release.
Write Albert:
Albert Woodfox #72148
West Feliciana Parish Detention Center
PO Box 2727
St. Francisville, LA 70775
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Mumia Abu-Jamal in Medical Crisis --Several Ways to Take Action in Support!
Below is an update about Mumia Abu-Jamal's continuing emergency medical crisis, released by Johanna Fernandez from the Campaign to Bring Mumia Home. For the latest news, visit Prison Radio (on Twitter) and Bring Mumia Home (on Twitter)
RELATED: Support Independent Medical Care for Mumia II Linn Washington Jr: Mumia's Specialized Mistreatment II Mumia Moved Back to SCI Mahoney's prison infirmary II NY Amsterdam News: 'Mumia is in Pain,' his son says II This Can't Be Happening: Execution by medical neglect? Pennsylvania’s Prison System is Torturing Mumia Abu-Jamal and his Family Too
MUMIA UPDATE: April 7, 2015
Mumia is in very poor health and has been back in the prison infirmary since Wednesday, April 2, 2015. His transfer back to the prison is an attempt to sever Mumia from the widespread attention this recent crisis has garnered in the media. It was also an attempt to shut down the movement’s vigil at the hospital.
RELATED: Support Independent Medical Care for Mumia II Linn Washington Jr: Mumia's Specialized Mistreatment II Mumia Moved Back to SCI Mahoney's prison infirmary II NY Amsterdam News: 'Mumia is in Pain,' his son says II This Can't Be Happening: Execution by medical neglect? Pennsylvania’s Prison System is Torturing Mumia Abu-Jamal and his Family Too
MUMIA UPDATE: April 7, 2015
Mumia is in very poor health and has been back in the prison infirmary since Wednesday, April 2, 2015. His transfer back to the prison is an attempt to sever Mumia from the widespread attention this recent crisis has garnered in the media. It was also an attempt to shut down the movement’s vigil at the hospital.
Monday, March 2, 2015
A3 Newsletter: Cautious Optimism as A3 Supporters Pack the Courtroom for Albert Woodfox
MEDIA COVERAGE: The Advocate II Times-Picayune II Robert King on KPFK Radio
Judge Brady Gives One Week for Final Briefs in Albert's Fight for Bail --A Release Decision is Expected Soon Thereafter
As expected, arguments began by exploring whether the federal or state courts have jurisdiction of Albert's release and ended with a discussion about what bail for Albert may look like.
Though the Court has given both sides one additional week to sum up, we expect he should rule soon thereafter. If he doesn't release Albert, the legal team is prepared to move his compelling case for bail to the state court.
Though the arguments were mostly procedural, the courtroom was overflowing with loving, dedicated supporters who stuck out the procedural delays to stand up for Albert and his long overdue freedom. Thanks to all of you who continue to show up and tune in as he takes his final steps toward release.
We will update you as soon as we hear more.
Judge Brady Gives One Week for Final Briefs in Albert's Fight for Bail --A Release Decision is Expected Soon Thereafter
As expected, arguments began by exploring whether the federal or state courts have jurisdiction of Albert's release and ended with a discussion about what bail for Albert may look like.
Though the Court has given both sides one additional week to sum up, we expect he should rule soon thereafter. If he doesn't release Albert, the legal team is prepared to move his compelling case for bail to the state court.
Though the arguments were mostly procedural, the courtroom was overflowing with loving, dedicated supporters who stuck out the procedural delays to stand up for Albert and his long overdue freedom. Thanks to all of you who continue to show up and tune in as he takes his final steps toward release.
We will update you as soon as we hear more.
Friday, February 27, 2015
A3 Newsletter: Bail Hearing for Albert Woodfox on Monday, March 2 --Come to Baton Rouge to Support Albert
MEDIA: Judicial system's treatment of two Angola inmates resembles a lottery, by James Gill
We've just received word that Albert's bail hearing will proceed on Monday, March 2nd at 9:30am in Courtroom 6 of the US Middle District Court in Baton Rouge (777 Florida St.). Albert will be present; and though we know it is short notice, local supporters are urged to attend if at all possible.
If you have not yet done so, please sign the Amnesty International petition calling on Gov. Jindal to not oppose bail for Albert.
Albert Release Arguments Heat Up as Monday's Bail Hearing Approaches
48 hours ago the State submitted a written request for Federal District Court Judge James A. Brady to cancel Albert's Monday, March 2nd bail hearing on the grounds that his reindictment moves the question of release from federal to state jurisdiction.
We've just received word that Albert's bail hearing will proceed on Monday, March 2nd at 9:30am in Courtroom 6 of the US Middle District Court in Baton Rouge (777 Florida St.). Albert will be present; and though we know it is short notice, local supporters are urged to attend if at all possible.
If you have not yet done so, please sign the Amnesty International petition calling on Gov. Jindal to not oppose bail for Albert.
Albert Release Arguments Heat Up as Monday's Bail Hearing Approaches
48 hours ago the State submitted a written request for Federal District Court Judge James A. Brady to cancel Albert's Monday, March 2nd bail hearing on the grounds that his reindictment moves the question of release from federal to state jurisdiction.
Thursday, February 19, 2015
VIDEO: Citing '43 Years of Injustice,' Amnesty International interviews UN Special Rapporteur Juan Mendez about Albert Woodfox
Sign the new Amnesty petition to Gov. Jindal!
Amnesty International has just released a new video entitled "Free Albert Woodfox: 43 Years of Injustice," (on You Tube and Facebook) featuring an interview with Juan Mendez, the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The video was made in support of Amnesty's new petition campaign focusing on Albert's pending application for release on bail.
In 2013, declaring that “Four decades in solitary confinement can only be described as torture,” Mendez called for Albert's immediate release from solitary confinement. Speaking about Albert in this new video, Juan Mendez says:
"Mr. Woodfox is spending his days in solitary confinement…His convictions have been reversed and the State is appealing them, so in fact he should be considered an innocent man until his guilt or innocence is resolved."
"There’s no question that his conditions inflict on him the kind of pain and suffering of a mental nature that is associated with torture and I think that should stop."
Amnesty International has just released a new video entitled "Free Albert Woodfox: 43 Years of Injustice," (on You Tube and Facebook) featuring an interview with Juan Mendez, the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman and Degrading Treatment or Punishment. The video was made in support of Amnesty's new petition campaign focusing on Albert's pending application for release on bail.
In 2013, declaring that “Four decades in solitary confinement can only be described as torture,” Mendez called for Albert's immediate release from solitary confinement. Speaking about Albert in this new video, Juan Mendez says:
"Mr. Woodfox is spending his days in solitary confinement…His convictions have been reversed and the State is appealing them, so in fact he should be considered an innocent man until his guilt or innocence is resolved."
"There’s no question that his conditions inflict on him the kind of pain and suffering of a mental nature that is associated with torture and I think that should stop."
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Louisiana Takes First Step to Retry Albert Woodfox --AG Caldwell Continues to Obstruct Justice But Albert Does Not Fear A Trial
UPDATE (Feb. 18): Until he knows if he will be released on bail, Albert is being held in isolation at West Feliciana Parish Detention Center, a small city jail with only a few dozen prisoners at any one time. His new mailing address at this facility is:
Albert Woodfox #72148
West Feliciana Parish Detention Center
PO Box 2727
St. Francisville, LA 70775
MEDIA COVERAGE: James Gill, The Advocate
On February 11, the State of Louisiana took the first step toward a retrial and announced that a grand jury has re-indicted Albert a third time for the murder of Brent Miller.
Though we continue to hope that the State will stop wasting taxpayer money on the prosecution and torture of this innocent man, Albert looks forward to being able to prove to the world once and for all that he is innocent.
We will update you as more information becomes available, and in the meantime urge you to join over 16,000 people in the US alone (and thousands more abroad) in signing Amnesty's new petition calling for Albert's immediate release.
Amnesty USA Responds to the Indictment
In response to today's announcement of the indictment of Albert Woodfox, Amnesty International USA Executive Director Steven W. Hawkins issued the following statement:
"Attorney General Caldwell has made it clear that he is hell-bent on keeping Albert Woodfox behind bars-despite the fact that his conviction has been overturned three times, and an appeals court has affirmed that decision. He should stop pursuing a campaign of vengeance by trying to re-indict a man who has already spent more than four decades in cruel confinement, after a legal process tainted with flaws.
Albert Woodfox #72148
West Feliciana Parish Detention Center
PO Box 2727
St. Francisville, LA 70775
MEDIA COVERAGE: James Gill, The Advocate
On February 11, the State of Louisiana took the first step toward a retrial and announced that a grand jury has re-indicted Albert a third time for the murder of Brent Miller.
Though we continue to hope that the State will stop wasting taxpayer money on the prosecution and torture of this innocent man, Albert looks forward to being able to prove to the world once and for all that he is innocent.
We will update you as more information becomes available, and in the meantime urge you to join over 16,000 people in the US alone (and thousands more abroad) in signing Amnesty's new petition calling for Albert's immediate release.
Amnesty USA Responds to the Indictment
In response to today's announcement of the indictment of Albert Woodfox, Amnesty International USA Executive Director Steven W. Hawkins issued the following statement:
"Attorney General Caldwell has made it clear that he is hell-bent on keeping Albert Woodfox behind bars-despite the fact that his conviction has been overturned three times, and an appeals court has affirmed that decision. He should stop pursuing a campaign of vengeance by trying to re-indict a man who has already spent more than four decades in cruel confinement, after a legal process tainted with flaws.
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Please take action for Albert Woodfox: New Amnesty Intl. Petition to Gov. Jindal Calls for the State to Not Oppose Bail
We are excited to announce that Amnesty International has started a new petition in support of Albert Woodfox's February 6 bail request that he filed in response to the favorable Fifth Circuit Court ruling on February 3. The full text of an email sent out today by Amnesty, describing the campaign, is featured below.
Please take action now!
Freedom is just around the corner
For more than four decades, Albert Woodfox has been held in solitary confinement: first in the infamous Louisiana State Penitentiary (also known as Angola Prison) and later in David Wade Correctional Center.
Albert spends 23 hours a day isolated in a small cell - four steps long and three steps across - with no access to meaningful social interaction or rehabilitation.
Last Friday, Albert's legal team filed for bail. With your help, he could finally walk free.
Please take action now!
Freedom is just around the corner
For more than four decades, Albert Woodfox has been held in solitary confinement: first in the infamous Louisiana State Penitentiary (also known as Angola Prison) and later in David Wade Correctional Center.
Albert spends 23 hours a day isolated in a small cell - four steps long and three steps across - with no access to meaningful social interaction or rehabilitation.
Last Friday, Albert's legal team filed for bail. With your help, he could finally walk free.
Friday, February 6, 2015
Albert Woodfox Applies for Bail With Expedited Review --Freedom Is Just Around the Corner
MEDIA COVERAGE: NOLA Times-Picayune
This afternoon Albert Woodfox's legal team submitted an application to US District Court Judge James A. Brady for release on bail with expedited review (View the court filing here).
This month marks 2 years since Albert's conviction was overturned for a third time based on a finding of racial discrimination in the selection of his grand jury foreperson, a decision now firmly upheld by a unanimous panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.
Though the Attorney General may continue to stand in the way of justice and appeal yet again to the US Supreme Court and/or attempt to retry him, Albert's attorneys argue that there is no legal or moral justification to hold him in prison any longer, nor any reason to believe the State of Louisiana could succeed in reconvicting him in a fair proceeding.
This afternoon Albert Woodfox's legal team submitted an application to US District Court Judge James A. Brady for release on bail with expedited review (View the court filing here).
This month marks 2 years since Albert's conviction was overturned for a third time based on a finding of racial discrimination in the selection of his grand jury foreperson, a decision now firmly upheld by a unanimous panel of the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals.
Though the Attorney General may continue to stand in the way of justice and appeal yet again to the US Supreme Court and/or attempt to retry him, Albert's attorneys argue that there is no legal or moral justification to hold him in prison any longer, nor any reason to believe the State of Louisiana could succeed in reconvicting him in a fair proceeding.
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Good News! 5th Circuit Rejects AG Caldwell's Request for En Banc Hearing --Early Birthday Present for Albert
MEDIA COVERAGE: Times-Picayune II The Advocate / Associated Press
Today the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the unanimous decision of their own three judge panel and denied Attorney General Buddy Caldwell's request for an "en banc" rehearing of Albert's case. This was the State's last shot to reinstate Albert's third overturned conviction through the US Court of Appeals.
Though we expect they may continue to delay justice with a vain attempt to convince the US Supreme Court to undo decades of solidly established Constitutional law, Judge Brady's original February 2013 decision throwing out Albert's murder conviction stands stronger than ever before and it is now only a matter of time until the State is forced to either release or retry him.
In just over two weeks, on Thursday, February 19th, Albert will turn 68 years old. Though there are still weeks and months yet to go before he is released, he has never been closer to freedom.
Please take a moment to send him a note letting him know that we will continue to fight every day until he is freed--this will be the last birthday he will spend in a solitary cell!
Today the 5th Circuit Court of Appeals sided with the unanimous decision of their own three judge panel and denied Attorney General Buddy Caldwell's request for an "en banc" rehearing of Albert's case. This was the State's last shot to reinstate Albert's third overturned conviction through the US Court of Appeals.
Though we expect they may continue to delay justice with a vain attempt to convince the US Supreme Court to undo decades of solidly established Constitutional law, Judge Brady's original February 2013 decision throwing out Albert's murder conviction stands stronger than ever before and it is now only a matter of time until the State is forced to either release or retry him.
In just over two weeks, on Thursday, February 19th, Albert will turn 68 years old. Though there are still weeks and months yet to go before he is released, he has never been closer to freedom.
Please take a moment to send him a note letting him know that we will continue to fight every day until he is freed--this will be the last birthday he will spend in a solitary cell!
Write Albert:
Albert Woodfox #72148
Albert Woodfox #72148
David Wade Correctional Center
670 Bell Hill Road
Homer, LA 71040
670 Bell Hill Road
Homer, LA 71040
Friday, January 16, 2015
Urgent UK Action Needed: Governor Jindal in London on Monday --Stop Him From Speaking Now
To all A3 supporters, please pick up the telephone and make 2 calls now.
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Robert King in Sweden with Amnesty International for the release of a new song and music video about Albert Woodfox by Meja
Robert King of the Angola 3 is currently in Sweden supporting Amnesty International’s ongoing campaign to "Free Albert Woodfox" through the launch of a new song called Yellow Ribbon, written by the Swedish artist, Meja, with an accompanying music video featured above (view the press release here).
Meja's song Yellow Ribbon is helping to publicize Amnesty Sweden's online petition asking Louisiana Attorney General Buddy Caldwell to stop impeding justice for Albert.
The A3 Coalition is also asking that you please support Amnesty's new petition to US Secretary of State John Kerry calling for US super-maximum security prisons to be opened up for UN scrutiny. Amnesty has just released a new interview with Juan Mendez, Special Rapporteur on Torture.
Friday, January 9, 2015
Humanist Sociologists Vote to Support the Release of Black Panther Activist Albert Woodfox
Featured below is the full text of a public statement just released by the Association for Humanist Sociology. For more information, contact: Kathleen Fitzgerald, AHS President, fitzy88so@gmail.com or Rebecca Hensley, AHS Secretary, luv2lurn@earthlink.net. The AHS website is www.ahssociology.org.
Humanist Sociologists Vote to Support the Release of Black Panther Activist Albert Woodfox
January 6, 2015
The membership of the Association for Humanist Sociology, an organization dedicated to scholarship and action in the service of justice and peace, has voted to call for the immediate release of the last “Angola 3” prisoner, Albert Woodfox, from the Louisiana Department of Corrections where he has been held in solitary confinement for more than forty-two years for the murder of a prison guard in 1972, a deeply flawed conviction that has now been overturned three times.
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| (PHOTO: Albert Woodfox billboard in Louisiana, April 2014) |
Humanist Sociologists Vote to Support the Release of Black Panther Activist Albert Woodfox
January 6, 2015
The membership of the Association for Humanist Sociology, an organization dedicated to scholarship and action in the service of justice and peace, has voted to call for the immediate release of the last “Angola 3” prisoner, Albert Woodfox, from the Louisiana Department of Corrections where he has been held in solitary confinement for more than forty-two years for the murder of a prison guard in 1972, a deeply flawed conviction that has now been overturned three times.