cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/19418712

Just sent a letter to the warden of Jackson Correctional Institution, and I’m proud to stand in support of prisoners’ rights to access The Militant, an international socialist newsweekly connected to the Socialist Workers Party and the Pathfinder Press.

The Florida Department of Corrections has banned issue no. 17 of The Militant, citing concerns over a photo from an article about the fight against anti-Semitism. Prison officials claim the content is “dangerously inflammatory,” but it’s clear that the article provides historical context, not hate speech or incitement. https://themilitant.com/2024/08/17/help-overturn-ban-on-the-militant-in-florida-prison/

This is about more than just a newspaper—it’s a fight for prisoners’ constitutional rights to access political literature.

Here is the copy of the letter I sent and I would recommend others socialists to email the department of corrections as well. Email was sent to Services Administrator Saritza Legault at Saritza.Legault@fdc.myflorida. com

Text of my letter:

September 4, 2024

Warden Heath Holland Jackson Correctional Institution 5563 10th St Malone, FL 32445

Dear Warden Holland,

I’m writing to express my concern over the recent decision to ban issue no. 17 of The Militant newspaper within Jackson Correctional Institution. I respectfully urge you to reconsider this action, which I believe undermines the fundamental rights of prisoners to access political literature and infringes on their freedom of speech, as protected by the Constitution.

The Militant provides important perspectives and educational content to its readers, including many incarcerated individuals who benefit from staying informed on national and international issues.

I respect the safety concerns of your institution but believe that banning literature like The Militant does more harm than good by limiting access to educational and political materials that help incarcerated individuals engage in constructive dialogue and understanding. I hope you will consider reversing this ban and allow this publication to be accessed by those who wish to read it.

Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.

Sincerely,

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