Dear Friends, January 11, 2021 will be the 19th anniversary of the day the first detainee was sent to Guantanamo Bay. It is an unfortunate anniversary, one that marks our country's decision to throw away the rules when it comes to combating terrorism, a decision that resulted in both torture and indefinite detention without trial. There are 40 prisoners still held at Guantanamo Bay - many of whom were tortured in U.S. custody, and most of whom are held indefinitely without having been tried for or convicted of any crime. This January 11th, though, comes nine days before President-elect Biden is inaugurated. President-elect Biden has committed to closing Guantanamo and ending the indefinite detention of the people held there. We have a real chance to finally move forward from this unfortunate chapter of U.S. history - but to do that we must hold President-elect Biden to his word. You can help. Please write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper or your denominational newsletter congratulating President-elect Biden on his upcoming inauguration and calling on him to keep his promise to close Guantanamo. Talking points and tips for drafting your letter can be found here. Please write no matter how small your local newspaper may be - it's easier to get your letter printed in smaller papers. Your denominational newsletter, or other regional or faith specific news sources, may also publish letters - if so, then they may also be good options for writing. Writing a letter to the editor now is crucial - our political leaders pay close attention to letters that are published in news outlets, even small outlets, and we must show them that after 19 years, Americans still care about Guantanamo. In addition to writing a letter, please consider organizing an online vigil or other event for members of your local faith community who would like to remember those held in Guantanamo. We have drafted a sample prayer and a petition for your use in such an event. We are co-sponsoring an online rally organized by ICUJP and other Los Angeles partners, on Jan. 11 at 10am PT. Please contact my colleague T.C. if you are hosting an event that NRCAT could help advertise. Thank you for helping close Guantanamo. It has been a long journey, but the end may finally be in sight! Sincerely, Matt Hawthorne
Policy Director
National Religious Campaign Against Torture | 
