Remembering the Attica uprising: Yesterday marked the 51st anniversary of the start of the Attica Correctional Facility uprising. That’s when more than 2,000 people incarcerated in upstate New York took over the yard to protest inhumane conditions. They demanded freedom, wages, education access, medical care, and more. AFSC’s Akira Rose reminds us of that history and why we must work for a future without incarceration.
California strengthens protections against racial bias in criminal legal system: In 2020, California enacted a historic law to prohibit the use of race, ethnicity, or national origin in sentencing and convictions. This month, lawmakers passed legislation to apply the law retroactively. Now people who were previously convicted can seek relief. “For those incarcerated due to racial bias, the Racial Justice Act for All provides a path forward to fight the systemic racism that has contaminated our legal system,” says AFSC’s Fatimeh Khan. (The Davis Vanguard)
Gearing up for activism this fall (Sept. 13, 1 p.m. ET/ 10 a.m. PT): Join AFSC policy staff for this online conversation on what’s next for Congress. We’ll discuss ways to keep up the struggle for climate justice after the passage of historic legislation. And learn how you can advocate with elected officials as they debate budgets for housing, migration policies, military spending, and more. (Facebook)
The Border Patrol emblem promotes razor-sharp wires made for a battlefield. Why is it allowed?: In this op-ed, AFSC’s Pedro Rios criticized a new challenge coin issued by Border Patrol. The coin “reflects more of the same unaccountable policing about border security — glamorizing militarization at the expense of human rights,” Pedro wrote. Soon after, Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Chris Magnus responded that the agency would remove the coin from circulation and has since removed its mention from CBP’s website.
Testifying to the Senate on accountability for the effect of sanctions: Earlier this year, AFSC’s Daniel Jasper gave testimony to the Senate Appropriations Committee to increase humanitarian access for people in countries under sanction. He asserts that more formal accountability is needed to prevent further civilian suffering. Read the testimony.
The lasting impacts of U.S. decisions after 9/11: It’s been 21 years since the Sept. 11 attacks on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. In its aftermath, the U.S. embarked on a disastrous course driven by fear and retribution. Today we still live with policies that justify endless wars and restrictions on civil liberties, writes AFSC’s Mary Zerkel.
Want a free “Love knows no borders” sticker?: We're giving away stickers to help spread the message that love knows no borders! It’s also one way to share your values and show your support for AFSC’s worldwide work. Sign up by Sept. 22 to get your sticker in the mail!
