There will be much to do in support of Lynne Stewart in
these next months. For the moment, the priority is to see that Lynne is sent to
the Federal Corrections Institition for Women in Danbury rather than somewhere
in Texas or even further from her family and friends. WRITE TO THE BUREAU OF
PRISONS IMMEDIATELY! TURN YOUR PAIN AT LYNNE'S HORRIFIC SENTENCE INTO
FIGHTING BACK. THIS IS STEP 1.
We urge you to write to the Bureau of Prisons (see address below)
immediately and ask for Lynne to be transferred to the Federal Correctional
Institute for female prisoners. Time is of the essence as the Bureau of Prisons
is not bound to accept Judge Koeltl's recommendation that Lynne be kept at
MCI for 60 days and then be transferred to Danbury. Lynne could be sent
elsewhere at any point.
WHAT THE LETTER SHOULD SAY:
You can explain that Lynne is 70 years old, in remission from breast cancer
which could reoccur at any time, and suffering from other serious medical
challenges, including high blood pressure and diabetes. It is well-known that
health challenges are profoundly affected by the kind of emotional support that
only family and close friends can provide. Lynne would surely do much better
were she to have access to that kind of support. Given Lynne's serious
health problems and her age, there is certainly considerable risk of death in
these coming years and moving her away from her family and friends would
exacerbate that risk. You can end with "We urge you to offer this minimal
humanitarian gesture for this remarkable woman who has served the poor and
unrepresented her whole professional life as a lawyer." or something like
that. Feel free to write your own letter. Just do it as soon as possible so
that these letters reach the Bureau of Prisons before they make a move in
another direction. Letters should be addressed to:
Federal Bureau of Prisons,
320 First Street NW
Washington, DC 20534-0002
Folks can also call the Bureau of Prisons, 202 307-3198. Of
the possible offices to call, the Office of General Counsel (press #3) seems
the most appropriate. Leave a message asking for Lynne to be sent to Danbury
and explain why. The most important thing is for the Bureau to know we're
watching them, that there is great interest in Lynne's case and assignment.
Gerardo Hernandez of the Cuban 5 just got out of the "hole" through
such pressure.
In the struggle for justice! Free Lynne Stewart and All
Political Prisoners!
Ralph Poynter and Friends of Lynne Stewart
