During convention week, two, live video programs originating from the L.A. IMC will satellite-cast to millions of homes across the country. This disturbing letter describes conditions that jailed activists, along with the general prison population, are presently enduring in Philadelphia's abysmal criminal-justice system. Many prisoners here have been awaiting trial for two or more years. Medical emergencies routinely go unattended for weeks or even months. The food is frequently unfit for human consumption.
Pods are overcrowded, with cells serving for six men at a time.
Prisoners are beaten by guards. In one case, ten guards savagely beat a handcuffed prisoner into unconsciousness. Phones are commonly out of order, making contact with families and lawyers impossible. The purpose of this web site is to collect letters over the Internet and deliver them to activists still behind bars who are demanding greater democracy. On July 29, the DNC adopted a strong anti-labor platform asking labor to support passage of fast track and strengthening of the WTO, and rejecting universal health care and a living wage.