Greetings! We are nearing the end of Black August, the annual tradition that honors the work and sacrifice of Black freedom fighters and political prisoners who gave their all for Black liberation. At ALC, we pay special homage this month, and every month, to Russell Maroon Shoatz, the chief architect of our movement in Pennsylvania.

As we await the PA Supreme Court’s decision in Commonwealth v. Derek Lee, the case we argued before the Court in October 2024, we remember that the roots of the fight to end death by incarceration began over four decades ago. It was then that Maroon began organizing lifers to get their families and community members politically engaged to lobby the PA legislature. For his efforts and success in organizing incarcerated people, Maroon was thrown in solitary confinement in spring 1983, where he would spend the next 30 years.

Standing on the precipice of a decision that could potentially win freedom for thousands of Pennsylvanians and impact thousands more, we are reminded of the tremendous sacrifices of Russell Maroon Shoatz and other freedom fighters who paved the way.

When asked about the most meaningful ways to commemorate Black August, Jihad Abdulmumit, former political prisoner, ALC Board Member and chairperson of the  National Jericho Movement, encouraged us to support political prisoners by sending letters and commissary, joining campaigns to win their freedom, and picking up the torch to continue the work of liberation by getting involved in the movement.

As the month comes to a close, we are inspired to continue this work with the same fearlessness and commitment as the political prisoners and freedom fighters who sacrificed for us all.

Continue reading to learn more about our recent work.

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