Sunday, July 24, 2005
July 20, 2005 - Summary of Meeting
Friends of Human rights met on Wednesday, July 20, to share reflections on the trial so far and to discuss future actions. Our premise has been that Dr. Al-Arian and Mr. Hammoudeh have not been treated fairly or in accordance with the U.S. Constitution, and that a fair trial for all defendants will be elusive because of the actions of the government and the local bias created by the actions of the media.
Our goal has been to demonstrate to the jury that many local people are concerned about the treatment and bias, and we want the conditions and trial to be brought up to the standards of our Constitution and the moral and spiritual values of America.
To accomplish this goal, we have held demonstrations outside the Federal Courthouse on Mondays at noon, and we have attempted to have a presence in the courtroom as often as possible.
We feel that we have been having an effect (as does the prosecution apparently), and we should continue. We discussed what we could do to be the most effective, and reached the following conclusions through consensus:
Showing support in the courtroom is very important. We will be the most effective if the jury can identify with us and think we are just like them. In order to make a strong and positive effect on the jury, need to be quiet and respectful of everyone in the courtroom. It is not necessary to stay all day – spectators can come and go as they please. Even if we are only there for 30 minutes, the jury will see us.
We will continue having the presence in front of the courthouse from 11:30 to 12:30 (or longer) on Mondays. The signs have been excellent because they focus on civil and human rights. The group felt we would make a more powerful statement if we spread out a little along Florida Avenue, facing Florida Avenue with the signs and stand in silent witness to the need for a fair trial, etc.
We are having a positive effect and thanks to everyone who has participated.
Please keep coming, and bring friends!
--- Melva
Our goal has been to demonstrate to the jury that many local people are concerned about the treatment and bias, and we want the conditions and trial to be brought up to the standards of our Constitution and the moral and spiritual values of America.
To accomplish this goal, we have held demonstrations outside the Federal Courthouse on Mondays at noon, and we have attempted to have a presence in the courtroom as often as possible.
We feel that we have been having an effect (as does the prosecution apparently), and we should continue. We discussed what we could do to be the most effective, and reached the following conclusions through consensus:
Showing support in the courtroom is very important. We will be the most effective if the jury can identify with us and think we are just like them. In order to make a strong and positive effect on the jury, need to be quiet and respectful of everyone in the courtroom. It is not necessary to stay all day – spectators can come and go as they please. Even if we are only there for 30 minutes, the jury will see us.
We will continue having the presence in front of the courthouse from 11:30 to 12:30 (or longer) on Mondays. The signs have been excellent because they focus on civil and human rights. The group felt we would make a more powerful statement if we spread out a little along Florida Avenue, facing Florida Avenue with the signs and stand in silent witness to the need for a fair trial, etc.
We are having a positive effect and thanks to everyone who has participated.
Please keep coming, and bring friends!
--- Melva
