WikiLeaks on Trial - Online Courtroom Drama where YOU are the Jury
Channel: Consortium News
Date: 25/01/2021

Hot Potato presents WikiLeaks on Trial by Jenny Bassett a court room drama based on the current extradition case of the founder of WikiLeaks Julian Assange, where the audience are the Peoples Jury. 

From the lack of mainstream press coverage of what investigative journalist John Pilger has called ‘The Trial of the Century’, you may not be aware of what is at stake, should Julian Assange be extradited from the U.K. to the U.S. This extradition case seeks to apply the Espionage Act to journalistic activities and if granted, sets a very dangerous precedent. Any journalist or publisher who exposes US secrets anywhere in the world could then face extradition to the U.S. to face solitary confinement for life. It is a threat we must recognize and meet head-on. The stakes couldn’t be higher.

Unlike the 'kangaroo court' hearings currently underway at the Old Bailey in London, ‘Wikileaks on Trial’ attempts to present the facts, inform the public and stimulate debate. Research sources include independent journalists, Courage Foundation,  Don’t Extradite Assange and Stop the War Coalition.

Created for the online platform Zoom, WikiLeaks on Trial uses its features to enable  an interactive experience whereby the audience can act as the People’s Jury. Guided by the Clerk of Court, this People’s Jury will watch the case for the US Prosecution followed by the defence for Julian Assange. 

Following that, the People’s Jury will have the opportunity to discuss the case together in discrete break-out rooms before returning to the virtual Court where the clerk of court will deliver their verdict. 

For new-comers to Zoom, the Clerk of Court will be there to assist. Cameras will be switched off and microphones muted until the People’s Jury convenes. Each break-out room will be hosted by a cast member to help encourage and stimulate debate, but it is equally fine for viewers just wishing to watch and listen.