Jeff's Work
Jeff's dispatches from Prison
For the last several years I have been writing about the causes and signs of global warming. I scour newspapers and science journals for the latest studies. It’s no real surprise that the guy in prison for trying to call attention to global warming is writing about it.
When I first came to prison global warming was a myth. I had to argue the facts in numerous interviews. Some journalists were convinced by my passion and knowledge and others dismissed me as crazy.
Now more and more attention is being given to climate change and its inherent dangers. Major media outlets are reporting on climate change on a regular basis.
Just the other day the Register Guard reported that a 41 square mile chunk of Canada’s arctic ice shelf had broken off due to climate change. Reporting that the remaining ice shelves are 90% smaller than when they were discovered in 1906 (‘Ice shelf break blamed on climate change’ 12-30-06). Even the US government has now acknowledged the plight of polar bears that are threatened by climate change.
However, I was shocked when the Oregon Department of Corrections recently put an article in the prison bulletin about the dangers of global warming! The article went so far as to break down the types of green house gases. It concluded by asking the inmate population to do its part in fighting global warming by recycling paper to avoid creating methane gas (by letting it rot in a land fill).
I am glad that these issues are finally being acknowledged. It is great that steps are finally being taken to halt climate change. My own captors now agree climate change is a threat. The Bush administration is beginning to acknowledge it. Several states, including Oregon, are fighting legal battles in an effort to reduce green house gas emissions. It is great news. Even though it is going to take much more effort it is at least a start.
However, it leaves me asking the question: If I’m right and climate change is this huge threat, why am I still in prison?
I have served more than six years for a property crime that hurt nobody. My codefendant was released more than a year ago. Whatever debt I owe to society is paid in full.
We all know - you and me and the state - that I was punished for my politics. I was made to be an example. Well, my politics turn out to be right. No one is arguing with me about that anymore.
It is time for my punishment to reflect my crime not my politics. It is time for me to go home.
Depending on the outcome of my appeal, I will be asking the governor to commute my sentence. I can’t legally request that until my appeal process has ended. But when that time comes I will be asking for your help with letters, petitions, demonstrations, and media outreach. I believe that you have the power and influence to bring me home. I hope that you will answer, if I call.
- Jeffrey Free Luers
December 20, 2006
I honestly don’t have much to say at the moment, which is unusual, as everyone knows how much I love rabble rousing.
This is the first winter in a long time that I haven’t suffered from depression. I think I owe that to a very special person in my life and a
super amazing group of family and friends.
I turned 28 a few weeks back. And I want to thank everyone that sent me cards and letters. I got over 50 of them last week and they are still coming in. Thanks for all the love.
Perhaps the best gift of all came from my wonderful attorneys and friends at the Civil Liberties Defense Center, who have gotten me my visits back and are still fighting to get more. Thank you so much.
Happy holidays to everyone, and best wishes for a bright new year full of change.
Jeffrey "Free" Luers #13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
November 12, 2006
I learned the fate of my friends and allies during a visit a few hours after the pleas were entered. Then last night a guard came by with a newspaper article. He wanted to know how I felt about it.
It breaks my heart when I think about how this all could have been avoided. I’m outraged and saddened that there are so many traitors and cowards amongst
us.
The four people who pled guilty November 9, 2006: Jonathan Paul, Nathan Block, Joyanna Zacher, and Daniel McGowan, are victims of these traitors. Yet, despite the betrayal of their comrades, they have continued to act with honor and dignity.
For those of us who have chosen the path of resistance, there is no greater test of character than standing in the courtroom. There is no greater test of honor and integrity than facing the consequences of that resistance.
I have had the honor and privilege of briefly knowing Nathan. I smile knowing that I once shook this man’s hand. I wish I could give him a strong embrace now.
Daniel is one of my closest friends. Since his arrest I have been unable to communicate with him. I have not had the chance to tell him how much I love him and how proud I am of him.
I have not yet had the honor of meeting Joyanna or Jonathan. And I look forward to the day when I can look them in the eye and express my heart felt gratitude for all they have done.
Daniel, Nathan, Joyanna, and Jonathan: carry yourselves proudly. Your bravery will never be forgotten. You are all heroes. I salute you.
With my deepest respect and admiration,
Jeffrey “Free” Luers
The other day I was sitting out on the yard with an anarchist punk friend of mine. He and I share many common ideals, interests, and life experience. Over time, many fellow squatters and punk rockers have come and gone. But he and I are doing some time and are glad for the company.
We reclined on the bleachers watching the sky. The sun had already set behind the prison buildings and we were in their shadow. It was the time of evening I love so much. The setting sun casting colors on stray clouds and yet the sky remains a brilliant blue. Few things remind me that despite the walls I am still a child of the earth. The sky is my solace.
I was lost in my tranquil state when my friend said out of nowhere, “You know, Free, you are probably the most famous person I know.” I started laughing, my eyes still on the sky. “You know, you might be right. But, I’ll remember you when I get to the top.”
“I know,” he said laughing. “That’s why I’m going to sell all of your stuff on E-bay.”
We both laughed in that characteristically prison way, where laughter truly is the only medicine. A few minutes later and it was time to head back home, back to the cell.
Compared to most prisoners I am very fortunate. My friend is right. I am famous (amongst activists anyways). I am supported with visits, letters, money, and books. My fellow prisoners and the guards respect me. All things considered, I live a comfortable life.
I am thankful for the love and support I’ve received. I’m even more thankful that my words have spread so far.
Still I can’t help but wonder if my words are reaching the right people. I love that I can inspire other activists and like-minded individuals. But I aspire to reach beyond our own and get through to members of the general public. I want to form alliances with the working class and social justice struggles.
I dream of the day when unions stand in solidarity with environmentalists and refuse to unload or ship products made by companies destroying the planet. I want to see anarchists supporting picket lines and struggling for a living wage. I want to see the struggle to end vivisection embraced by all struggles.
I live for the day when supporting multifaceted struggle means embracing lobbying, direct action and sabotage as legitimate and equally valuable components of change.
I want to go beyond radicalism and liberalism, move past definitions. I want labels and stigmas to disappear. I want a truly united front against oppression and injustice.
I would love to see real and meaningful change accomplished in my lifetime. In my heart, I know it is possible. But it will only be accomplished by destroying our chains be they made of prejudice, factionalism, or by the tools of oppression. We must then create bonds of mutual respect and solidarity so we can begin building the alternatives to the structures and systems of today, in order to make room for a better tomorrow.
Divided we stand united we rise.
- Jeffrey “Free” Luers
The last several weeks have been very intense. Many of you are familiar with my personal struggles at this time having lost my contact visits for the next year. But, that is a small story compared to what the last two weeks have been like at OSP.
The Oregon State Penitentiary is Oregon’s only maximum-security prison. It is a home to violence, drugs, and sexual assaults. Typically, OSP is deceptively calm, but underneath is a perpetual storm always capable of becoming a full-blown disaster.
Last Sunday the storm broke loose and so far shows no sign of letting up. It started with the brutal beating of a guard during the evening yard.
What needs to be understood is that many - though not all - the guards here are disrespectful and dehumanizing. They believe they are untouchable and therefore immune to repercussions. This doesn’t mean they treat everyone like shit; a handful do, but usually they split somewhere down the middle. You know, while someone might be nice to you they aren’t always nice to everyone kind of thing.
This is the underlying tension that constantly exists. It is the nature of any environment where one group has all the power and another none.
Sometimes that scale tips, often violently, and not always without warning. And so last Sunday a guard was beaten into submission, and when the guards ordered everyone on the yard to lie prone no one did. And when the guns were turned on us a chorus of fuck-you was sounded. And when the gun towers ordered everyone to be still no one was. And when the prisoners were suddenly
empowered the guards lost all of theirs. Then the gates were locked and all of the guards left the yard. When the ambulance arrived to take their fallen a cheer went up across all of OSP.
That night a modified lockdown was imposed. All blocks would only have one yard. In essence everyone would be on 22 hour a day lockdown.
But that would not be enough to stem the flow of blood. The next night an inmate was stabbed. Rumors circulated that he was a snitch.
The day after that a fight erupted in the chow hall. One a week has been the average for a while now.
Then on Wednesday night I watched a man die. He took his last gurgled breath less than 10 feet from me and then his heart stopped beating. I watched for twenty minutes as medics performed CPR and shocked him.
I felt nothing as I watched this man die from my cell, nothing as they pronounced him dead. Nothing when they put the crime scene tape around his body.
They left him lying in front of my cell for five hours, his body partially covered with his feet and the top of his head sticking out.
I was awoken and questioned by the police at 4am. I went to sleep with his stiff body just outside my bars. Turns out the man was strangled, homicide or suicide is still unknown.
Today I read in the paper the man was a child molester. He admitted to raping and using a foreign object on a girl younger than twelve. He was sentenced to eight years.
The night he died I felt nothing. Today I feel glad that he is dead.
This is prison. I shower next to serial killers and sexual predators. I have alliances with people I’d fight on the streets. My best friend is a murderer and I love him like a brother (my parents love him too for that matter).
I walk with eyes in the back of my head. I seldom have anything to worry about but I never let my guard down. Every time I get a new cellmate I size him up and decide how I’d take him if I had to.
My friends watch my back and I watch theirs. No one deals with trouble alone. We joke about death. We laugh at the violence and suffering in here. It is a part of our daily existence. It has become part of who we are.
I can watch a man get stabbed in the neck and keep eating. I can pretend to not see a man lying helpless in his own blood (along with everyone else on the yard). And I can watch a man die and be completely unmoved.
Would someone please tell me how this is supposed to make me a better person? Can someone please tell me how locking away more than two million people into places like this is going to stop crime? Is there anyone out there that can convince me we are this planet’s most evolved creatures?
- Jeffrey “Free” Luers
When I started this dispatch a few days ago, my thoughts were jumbled. I’m not sure they are any clearer now. But I know what I want to try to say.
Now that I am out of the hole most of the letter that were sent 4-5 weeks ago are starting to be delivered. Thank you all for the love and support. It warms my heart.
I don’t know what it is like for our other captured warriors. There is little communication between me and other prisoners. And there is a definite lack of structure that would allow the political prisoners to work together. I would like to change that. However, that is perhaps a topic for my next dispatch.
I find myself in a strange situation of being a voice for an ideal and belief system. I give countless interviews and speeches on anarchism, environmentalism, direct action and activism. I always try to just speak for myself, but give an overview of broader topics.
I’m not entirely sure how all of this came about. It could be because of my amazing friends who have put up websites, made stickers, and movies about my story. My wonderful friends who refused to give up until the world knew my name and case.
Maybe it’s because of how much time I got and the fact that I steadfastly refuse to quit running my neck. Always preaching, even begging, for a revolution.
It might even be the right combination of the two. Still it never ceases to amaze me at the overwhelming amount of mail I’ve received, so many people from all over the world telling me how much I’ve inspired them.
I like to think that I inspire people because I’m still trying, still struggling. I like to think that I’m proof that everyone has this courage and passion inside of themselves.
It would break my heart if people thought I was something special or part of some kind of vanguard. I’m just an ordinary human being. I’m just like you.
Direct action isn’t something that is supposed to be left to some vanguard. It is for the people. All people. It doesn’t have to be spectacular it just has to be consistent.
Finding the courage to face state repression isn’t difficult it just takes believing in yourself and knowing you are right.
When I read the papers, even mainstream ones, I see how much global warming has become apart of our collective conscience. It is on the front page, in the comics, and editorials. Everyone is saying, ‘Something must be done’. And everyone is saying it like the power to fix the problem lies in someone else’s hands.
How did we as a society ever get so disempowered? How did we become so impotent?
For a long time I thought it was fear of repression. I thought it might have been intimidation or the belief that a small group of people can’t change anything.
But, what if it’s none of that. What if our collective fear is that we are powerful beyond measure? What if our fear comes from not wanting to be responsible?
These days it seems like everyone knows what is going on. Many people want change and are articulate and passionate about ending the war, creating social and environmental justice.
So, really, what gives? Why are we waiting?
I guess there is some big miracle around the corner. I just don’t know about it. Now that I know, I can sit back and rely on it, too. I can turn to these nameless and faceless others that will create this miracle. I mean, thank goodness, it’s someone’s responsibility to address all these pressing issues.
That doesn’t work for me. It shouldn’t work for anyone else.
I know what my country is doing wrong. I know what we are letting corporations get away with. It is my responsibility to try and stop it because I know.
I don’t enjoy it, but I embrace that responsibility. To steal a quote, evil flourishes when good people do nothing.
If you are reading this you likely know, also. Especially since I’ve yet to master preaching beyond the choir.
This responsibility is yours, as well. You don’t have to like it (I don’t). But you have to accept it, for two reasons: 1) you have the power to change that which is wrong. 2) You know what’s wrong and if you do nothing then you are part of what’s wrong.
I don’t want to be in prison. I wish I had been born in a different time, one that allowed me to live a simple life with my family and friends.
I’m not sure how much I believe in destiny or fate. All I know is that I was born into this mess. Born into a society of injustice, that puts profits before life and justifies all of it with twisted morality.
I can’t live in this world without challenging it, I don’t know how. Some people say that’s why I belong in prison. And, maybe, I do. If there is only a handful of people willing to fight back against insanity maybe this is where we belong. Locked away as a threat to those in power. Locked out of mainstream activism because our resistance goes beyond what the state allows, beyond their self-defined comfort zone.
But that doesn’t make me or anyone else an elite. Perhaps it just means we try too hard. That we have the audacity to believe a better world is possible and that we can help create it.
Maybe I’m the crazy one. It could be that those in power are supposed to be corrupt. Inequality really could be human nature. Maybe people should know their places and cower before their masters. It could very well be that this is the order of the universe and those who accept it have the right idea.
If that is the case, well, I’ll just have to continue being stubbornly wrong.
Jeffrey ‘Free’ Luers
Talk about a shitty couple of days. I get out of the hole on Sunday, August 20. To start I have to fight to get out on my date because I'm not in the computer. I get let out without having had a hearing, which means I have no sanctions.
I'm excited, though. I know that no matter what I get to call her today. I get out right at yard line. I go and find my new cell conveniently locked on the bar box. The first cell on the tier, the one right in front of the guard.
Ok, no big deal. Been here before. I throw my bedding in and hit the yard. The number that I've dialed nearly everyday for many months is gone from my memory. I try many combinations. I have to know it!
I don't. I call the old number. I feel like an ass. I get the new number. Finally, her voice. I don't know what to say. So much is happening around me: softball, birds, sunlight, people coming up to shake my hand. I haven't been outdoors in six weeks. Nowhere near my longest hole stretch, but it's messing with me.
I try, she keeps saying talk to me. Yet, the only words that come are ‘I love you’, ‘I'm scared they will not let me see you.’
It's been less than twenty minutes. I notice cops pointing at me. Something is coming. I know it. I know the look. Sure enough here they come.
‘Luers, you're not supposed to be out here, you're going back to the hole.’
‘But I'm not on LOP (loss of privileges).’
‘You just got out of the hole, of course you are.’
‘I never got a hearing.’
Looks of suspicion, hands going for the cuffs. Then something unexpected. She believes me.
‘Ok then.’
‘What was that about,’ I hear over the phone.
‘Nothing, just more of the same.’
Next day. Monday.
I go down to pick up my property. All my envelopes that I was told weren't there when I was in the hole. They are right on top. Guess they didn't want me writing letters the first few weeks. No biggie, it ain't the first time.
Lots of my property is missing. Nothing major. Just the food and coffee I bought the week before the hole trip. That kind of thing happens. It will work itself out.
Again, drop the stuff off, hit the yard. Everyone is shaking my hand offering me food, coffee, shoes. I mean everyone: my friends, black guys, skinheads, strangers. It feels good to be respected. It feels good to know that my politics, my character goes beyond prison divisions. People respect why I'm in prison. This place is a micro community and like any community it has its
‘popular’ members. Somehow I'm one of them.
Back to the cell. All my stuff doesn't fit. Fuck, shit, fuck! Ok, 30 books gone. Damn not enough. Ok, got to mail some letters home. Still not enough room. More stuff has to go. I've gone from a 6x9 cell with 7 shelves and a drawer to a 5x8 with one shelf and drawer. I've accumulated a lot of stuff in 6 years. Not more than the two duffel bag limit. But the limit still won't fit in a small cell.
I feel slightly ill about this loss.
Day number three. Tuesday. Today.
They called me in for my hearing today. Nevermind speedy investigations. This one took 5 weeks. 5 weeks to get a tape of a phone call and ask a cop one question.
At the hearing I'm informed that they listened to 6 phone calls. 3 hours worth of conversation. They never heard me talk about smoking pot. Never heard me talk about pot.
I'm told that there's no longer any basis for suspicion. Reality and what is written in the report are two different things.
Vindication. My heart leaps. Maybe, for once I'll get ahead. Well, at least not any farther back.
Then a set back. The UA officer lies to the investigator. Says he didn't give me any water before the test. Says maybe 6oz.
But he gave me two 8oz glasses. 16oz in 15 minutes.
Their very rule says one 8oz glass every half hour after the first half hour. He violated the rule but he can't admit it. That alone would get me off. It would also show he was incompetent.
Still, I'm not worried. Even though it's his word against mine I've still got the ace. The hearings officer says there's no reason to believe I was smoking weed.
He gives me the decision. He says with no suspicion I do not find you guilty of disobeying an order (Yes! I've won!). However, you still submitted a diluted UA. So I find you guilty of contraband one.
I'm sanctioned to 14 days LOP, 42 days hole time (time served, a $50 fine, and I lose my contact visits for one year. Even though no one thinks I smoked pot.
I felt sick. It took a lot not to hit a cop today. Any cop, it didn't matter. Even the ‘cool’ ones who think I got fucked over simply say that's the way it goes.
I wanted to say ‘yea, well I'm an anarchist and this is the way that goes’ Pow! But I keep control of my seething anger. I make my way back to my cell. My stupid fucking cell on the bar box where I can't get away from anyone.
Here is when it hits me next time I see her face, next time I see my parents, there will be glass between us again. Just like county jail. No hugs, no kisses, no holding hands for a year.
I've done it before. It doesn't seem like a lot. But when the only thing that has kept me going are those visits, it's everything.
I'm not sure I can be ‘good’ anymore. I'm not sure that I want to be. I'm not sure what that means for my future.
Then again, maybe I'm just bitter, tired of being fucked over by the prison system. Maybe this feeling will pass. Or maybe next time I'm pushed, I'll push back. Maybe I won't have to. Maybe people out there will start pushing back when they are pushed and all this stupid authoritarian bullshit will end.
Jeffrey ‘Free’ Luers
Thank you all so much for the letters and books you have sent me in recent days. I know right now there's a bit of confusion about why I'm in the hole. I'd been hoping to know more myself before writing about it. However, that hasn't happened. So here is what has happened and what I know:
The whole thing started in mid-June when my neighbors got caught in their cell with a joint. The next day they took the wrong neighbors to the hole! Realizing their mistake a few days later they let the innocent party out of the hole and UA'd my tier.
One week later on June 30 I was called down to give a UA based on a phone conversation I'd had. I complied thinking it was just more of the same goings on as the week before.
Then I was UA'd again on July 3 and again on July 5. On July 10 they came to take me to the hole. I was told my June 30 UA was diluted. By which they mean I had more liquid intake than my body used (more than one cup of coffee). Some how this throws the PH balance of your pee off.
The report against me alleges that I admitted to smoking pot on the phone. That I drank excessive water to dilute my system in order to mask my drug use.
There are a few things wrong with that theory. Weed stays in your system - which is why they retested me twice before bringing me to the hole. And again a week after. All test negative. The other problem is the last time I smoked pot was June 15, 2000, the day before my arrest.
At my initial hearing I asked for an investigation including questioning the officer who administered the UA test, asking him how much water he gave me before the test. I also asked for a copy of the phone call to be part of the record, as I never made any statements admitting to having smoked pot in prison.
The case remains under investigation. I suspect it will remain under investigation until I am released from the hole on August 20. At which point it will likely be dropped. This is not an uncommon prison tactic.
I will write again as soon as I know more. For now, I ask people to be patient. If I need any public support on this issue we all know I will not hesitate to ask. Mostly, I'm just concerned with keeping my visits. The hole time doesn't bother me so much.
Again, I thank you all for your love and support. I am honored to have such wonderful people in my corner. Thank you to my dear friends that rally folks every time I'm harassed. Thank you to all you strangers out there who show your commitment to change and your compassion for humanity.
Still standing strong with head unbowed,
Jeffrey ‘Free’ Luers
Today is my six year anniversary. I almost didn’t notice to tell you the truth. It isn’t just because one day blends into another in here. Right now I just don’t really care that much that I’m in prison. I know how that sounds but that’s brutally honest. I got careless, I got sloppy. I slipped up. I got caught.
But, over the years something happened. I got stronger. I got louder. I became more powerful than the state ever wanted me to be.
You see, I was supposed to be a message to you all out there that would dare resist. But not enough people listened. Some kept fighting back. They kept liberating animals. They kept burning things down.
Now the state wants to send a more powerful message. They sent in agents and infiltrators. They bought off activists and turned others into traitors with threats. The message is simple: the government sees this movement as a threat. And they are telling you that if you challenge them they will try and lock you away for life.
It’s a powerful message. It’s down right intimidating, to be honest. But, this last weekend (June 9-11) another message was sent by 43 cities around the world. That message was very clear: we will not disappear.
Yea, some of us are going to end up in prison. That’s a fact. Some of the weaker individuals might break under that threat. That’s a fact, too. And that is intimidating. Why sugarcoat it?
However, when an international solidarity event, in which 43 cities participate, can be organized from a maximum security prison….That’s not just intimidating. That’s a threat.
There’s no denying the authorities have a lot of power. But so do we and we have to recognize that. We have to harness that energy. Every time we are pushed we must push back twice as hard.
Thank you for not being silent. Thank you for standing up for the “green scare” victims, the earth liberation prisoners and for me. I am so grateful, so very grateful I can’t wait to read and hear about all the events.
We have shown that we are united, that we can and will support our prisoners. Now let us show our might. They have heard your words. Make them feel your actions. The earth, the animals, the future, our children, your freedom, the people of Iraq, your very own community needs you to fight back. You are all we have. Your resistance is our only weapon, our only defense. You are the
only protection we have left. PLEASE do EVERYTHING you can to help.
Jeffrey ‘Free’ Luers
I’m really sad tonight. The last few days have been difficult. I get like this sometimes. Just part of the challenge, you know? It’s usually not this bad. Most times I just miss what my life once was.
Tonight the hurt is deep. It’s so real I can feel the tears on my cheeks.
It’s not often that I allow my personal life to extend beyond these walls. Your world is not mine. And unless you’ve ever been locked up – years not days – you could never understand my world.
I often find it strange that I don’t regret my actions. I don’t feel sorry for myself or resentful. But, damn I sure as hell don’t want to be here anymore.
Sometimes I wonder if my actions were the foolish endeavors of an idealistic youth. I think about the different paths my life could have taken.
Mostly, I dream about what my life could be like if I could just get out tomorrow instead of in 15 years. Fuck. I think about that a lot! I want what tomorrow would give me.
I hate feeling like this, like my heart is about to break. I hate waking up in the middle of the night reaching out for her only to realize it’s just another dream. It’s just a memory from long ago.
She was at work when I called, digging in the dirt. We were under the same sun but our worlds couldn’t have been more different.
I counted the concrete sections of wall between the gun towers as I listened to her sweet voice. There are 12. There are always 12. I count them every time I use the phone. I don’t remember when I started doing this, but I’ve done it for a long time. I can’t use the phone without counting them. 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12.
I watched a fight as we spoke without interrupting the conversation. Someone got jumped by two other guys. Maybe he had it coming, maybe he didn’t. All of them got pepper-sprayed. But not gun shots this time.
The phone call ended. How does a person stay in love with a guy in prison? I can’t give her a tenth of what she deserves. And though it goes unsaid we both know it.
A few times a year we sit across from each other in the visiting room. At the best of times we get lost in each other and I could swear she is the only other person in the room.
I haven’t been with a woman in years. When she kisses me it’s like…well, it’s the most wonderful thing I know. Of course, she’s a trouble maker (part of the attraction, for sure) and I always get strip-searched after her visits. I stopped being embarrassed long ago, but I still feel a little sorry for the cop who has to strip me after seeing her.
How do you have a relationship when you are separated by guns, walls, razor wire, and 2000 miles? You don’t.
We pretend real hard that somehow our love will be enough. That every letter, picture, phone call, visit, is somehow enough to get us through this.
She prays that by some miracle or act of judicial kindness this all ends sooner than later and I come home. I pray that we have the strength to hold on until that day comes.
The odds are against us. Tonight I’m sad because that is so very apparent to me.
This place has taken more than my liberty. It has eaten away at my sanity. It has robbed me of my happiness. It has kept me from expressing and sharing love the way love was meant to be shared.
My life could have been different. It could have been better than this. And damn it, I deserve better than this.
But, if my life was different it would not have as much meaning. There is power in my pain. There is resolve in my loss. My spirit can’t be defeated. I can’t be broken – because I’m right. Truth is on my side.
A journalist recently wrote to me. He said that history will judge me kindly and those who oppress me harshly. I’m not so sure about that, but history will vindicate me. In many ways it already has.
Our society is wrong. Our government is fascistic. Our people, our world will suffer the cost of that.
I fought back and continue to do so not just because it is the right thing to do. It is necessary.
I may suffer. My story may not have a happy ending. In the end I might be the loser of this fight. But, I’ll never be beaten. You can knock me down but you can’t knock the fight out of me.
If these are the years that will define my existence; If this becomes the sum total of my life’s work; If all I have left in the end is my defiance, at least I’ll be able to say one thing: My spirit never stopped being free.
Jeffrey ‘Free’ Luers
Earlier this month, the Earth Liberation Front struck in Salem, Oregon. I doubt many people outside of Oregon heard about this action. However, in Oregon it was a hot news topic for days.
What kind of daring action could garner such media attention? The words "Stop building ant farms, ELF" spray-painted on a new housing development.
The first headlines were "Eco-terrorists strike again". Then the speculations came. Was this an act of hardened terrorists or was it a prank? The debate went on. The police didn't know. The media could only guess.
The only thing that remained concrete was those three red letters: E-L-F. The difference came in how it was discussed. The media said "the police are unsure whether this is the work of teenage vandals or seasoned terrorists. If it was vandals they will be charged with criminal mischief. However, if it turns out the graffiti was actually done by terrorists they will be charged with federal anti-terrorist laws."
The "crime" remains the same but if it was committed for political reasons the punishment is much worse.
Recently, 3 college students were arrested in Alabama for the arson of half a dozen churches, for more than a week. The fires made national headlines. In some places burning a church is chargeable as a hate crime.
The three stated it was a prank that got out of control and all three were released on $50,000 bail.
Daniel McGowan, on the other hand, who was charged in two ELF related arsons, was only released after posting $1.6 million bail.
This is what a police state looks like, when laws are passed punishing protest more severely than social crime; when a person can be labeled a terrorist instead of a dissident; when the media uses the same language as the rulers without question; when allegiance to ones country means subservience to its rulers.
~
I am a warrior. I have never denied what or who I am. I have engaged in actions contrary to the laws of the United States. However, before I ever participated in illegal actions I employed every legal method available to invoke change.
I have met with business leaders, mayors, and members of congress. I have had these people lie right in my face or tell me they were powerless to do anything. I have seen corporate interests trump public interests time and time again with government support.
When people have no say in how they are ruled or what actions are taken on their behalf, they are not free. It is not freedom to choose your rulers if the method of rule remains the same. It is not freedom when your community lives in poverty, polluted by toxic and chemical waste and subject to abject police brutality, while your leaders and bosses live like royalty. It is not freedom when social order is maintained through fear and manipulation.
In the face of such truths it becomes the duty of all able bodied men & women to resist. It may be illegal but it is not wrong to fight injustice. It is not wrong to challenge corporate arrogance. It is not wrong to resort to force when diplomacy fails.
~
For years I and other earth liberation prisoners have received your support. There have been letter-writing campaigns, fundraisers, protests, direct actions and international days of solidarity. I am honored and thankful for your love and support.
Each of us know and believe our struggle is a legitimate one. We have a right to clean air, water, and land. We have a right to rein in corporate and
government practices furthering climate change. We have a right to resist oppression.
However, if we are to succeed our struggle must be recognized as being legitimate in the eyes of the world. Our resistance must be recognized as necessary.
One of the first steps in accomplishing that is by demanding recognition of political status for our prisoners. All incarcerated and accused members of the Earth Liberation Front and other earth liberation prisoners are political prisoners. Our actions that brought us to prison are political in nature. Our trials are about our politics. Our sentences are increased because of our political motives.
We need you to help us demand political status; by writing and calling politicians, newspapers, and other media and demanding recognition; by reaching beyond our borders to international organizations like Amnesty International and other human rights organizations, as well as the United Nations and other governments.
The state says people like me are terrorists. They use the label to instill fear and justify their repression. Only you can change that.
-Jeffrey Free Luers
2006. That has such a profound meaning to me. To start it means the beginning of my 6th year. It means come April, if I don't go to the hole, I'll have exactly 15 years left.
2006. Seven years since the pinnacle of this movement in Seattle. Seven years for things to get worse.
2006. Another year to try again. To hope and watch each sunrise with a sense of anticipation. Could this be the year? Could tomorrow be the day?
Everyone seems to take away something different from these writings of mine. I like that each person interprets my words based on what is in there heart. I like that at any given time I can receive compliments, criticisms, and even challenges from any one dispatch. If nothing else it tells me I'm making people think.
A very dear and special friend told me recently that my dispatches lacked something very important. That they lacked me!
She went on to say how well she knows me. That I only share one small part of me in these writings. She honestly worried that the world was not seeing the wonderful person I really am [her words].
That stuck to me. How can someone so close to me, who knows my heart ask me the hardest thing of all - to open up. I don't like to feel vulnerable. I don't like to feel like I don't have a wall to hide behind. I don't like sharing with strangers.
The damnest thing is that she's right. I think I hide too much.
It is so easy for me to make this prison sentence all about resistance. All about standing up for something better. After all, that's why I'm here, right?
But after all these years, and the decline in action, the "why" I'm here gets lost. Only the "how" I got here remains. It has been simplified beyond measure. "Free fought for the earth" or "Jeff was protesting global warming." Some people even say I did it for the animals.
All of these are great reasons. But nobody makes a stand just because something is bad or unjust. They always do it because something makes them care.
In 2000, my friends had a baby girl. She was born very sick. She had to undergo so much medical treatment and it was touch and go the whole way. All my friends wanted was for their baby to live. A whole community came forward to support them.
This baby was fighting for her life. I knew she would be fighting her whole life. She would struggle just to live and when she made it we would hand her a broken world. A world full of injustice and corruption and haunted by every type of exploitation. A world polluted beyond repair.
I wept for her and for what we would give her, for what my nephew and nieces would inherit. I cried for the world I would leave my kids if I ever have any.
I knew then who I was fighting for, why I would fight and how hard I would fight. That's when it got personal.
Our children, whether our own or members of our community, deserve better than what we were handed. We have struggled to right the wrongs of generations because those before us did not fight or did not succeed. That is not a legacy we should pass on. If we are ever to move forward as a human race then humanity has to improve with each generation. Not get worse. Not trade one injustice for another.
I don't know how much I accomplished before I got locked up. My actions were small and I've no idea how far they rippled. I do know that I inspired people. It is my gift and it is what I do even when I'm not trying to.
I'm good at inspiring people because I'm inspired by love. I can't tell you what to fight for. You've got to find that on your own. All I tell you is there are some things worth fight for.
Jeffrey "Free" Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
Earlier this week it was reported that William Rodgers, accused of Earth & Animal Liberation Front arsons, committed suicide in his jail cell.
I know very little other than that. However, I find the circumstances suspicious and strongly encourage people to push for an investigation. The news is incredibly sad. If William did in fact take his own life it is the first time an earth/animal liberation prisoner has done so. It is a devastating precedent.
I cannot begin to guess why. I can relate to the desperation and readily admit thoughts of taking my own life entered my head as I awaited trial. I think it is likely a common experience when people are facing a lot of time.
The fact that he followed through on the thought breaks my heart. And my sympathy goes out to his family & friends.
I am left wondering if there is something we could have done to stop him. Was this an entirely personal decision based on the prospect of doing a lot of time? Or was this an act of desperation from someone who felt completely alone?
There are four people left who desperately need your support. Daniel McGowan, Sarah Harvey, Kevin Tubbs, and Chelsea Gerlach. Write to them. Support them. Let them know they are not alone. Let them know there are people who will stand by them until they are released. Be there for them.
Jeffrey "Free" Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
This last week I've been talking to a lot of people about the recent arrests. I know what it is like to be where these people are now. I understand very well the anxiety of not knowing what is happening. The fear and the stress. Trying to be strong and level-headed not just for yourself but for your loved ones. In my conversations with people I can tell they are afraid. Not just for those arrested, but for themselves. Scared to talk, scared to act, and scared to support.
These people need your help. You might not know them. They might not be part of any activist community. But they represent the heart of this movement and this struggle. Because they are the ones accused of actions that have become legendary and made into songs. They are the ones bearing the brunt of this struggles' resistance. They are the scapegoats for the Department of Justice. They are suffering for every act of defiance this movement has carried out under whatever banner. We owe it to these people to support them. We owe it to them to not be controlled by fear.
YOU have to help them! If you ever considered yourself part of this struggle, a part of this movement, if you were ever just thankful somebody was brave enough to make a stand - YOU have to help them! Have a meeting with your local activists, form a collective, or act on your own. Find out what you can contribute: A website, a paypal account, legal help, fundraising, networking, letters, visits - any kind of support. Make it happen. Hell people we are pros at this by now. We've had our practice runs. This one is for real. This one makes or breaks us as a movement. It defines who we are as people.
Decades from now this will be a story of how the people came together. Or it will be a tale about how the back of a struggle was finally broken. I know the story I plan on writing. Who will help co-author it? Who will help make history?
(As of this writing, Stanislas "Jack" Meyerhoff, one of those arrested, has agreed to testify against the others charged. Jacob Ferguson has been identified as another informant and is still free and uncharged. These men are cowards and scum of the lowest order. They should be treated accordingly.)
Jeffrey "Free" Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
I write more of these things than the world will ever see. The ones I do send out get edited and rewritten until I'm satisfied it isn't too much. I know I am intense in all my emotions and honestly that's where my courage comes from.
My friends know me well, but each of them knows a side or a trait of me and few see the whole picture. I think that many would say I can be very open, but unreadable and closed when I choose. I carry my pain on the inside. I keep it there because it is mine. I know that trait can be analyzed and defined many ways, especially in men. But it is not a macho thing for me. Pain is like love, it is intimate and personal. It's not something to be shared with everyone. On occasion, through these Dispatches, I open a window to my soul. Sometimes, you can only make people understand by showing them...
Yes, I'm depressed and it hits me in waves. At times I feel like I'm drowning. I'm not depressed by my life. I can take care of myself quite well and, all things considered, my life is pretty good. What has me heartbroken is the state of this struggle. Frankly, I feel disappointed (not personally; in that regard I feel amazingly loved and supported). I feel like the force I've believed in for the last 13 years has failed. I feel defeated. I know it is incredibly naïve and utopian, but I truly believed that we were gonna change the world. For the first time ever it hit me that I'm not sure we will.
"Struggle" here in the U.S. seems far more centered around feel-good activism than it does creating change; more about symbolic dissent than actual resistance. It is almost like for most people being aware of the problem and being upset by it is enough. It isn't and it never will be.
Five years ago I said we were running out of time to act. In those 5 years, this movement has grown weaker and more withdrawn. There is less cell activity and more people in jail. There are fewer protests and more factionalized in-fighting. It has become easier to isolate ourselves in self-marginalized cliques pointing fingers at each other instead of raising a united fist.
This summer, I wrote a few controversial pieces about this movement. I flat-out said we had grown timid and weak. I tried to pick a fight. I wanted people to get angry. I wanted to see the lifeblood of this movement stir. I got one letter in response. One. He said he felt the same and was glad someone had the courage to voice it. The only other response was from the nice man who types these Dispatches and sends them to you. He argued with me (thanks, bro).
Today, I received 5 letters about my last Dispatch. I'm sure I'll get more. These folks were trying to cheer me up and make me smile. I appreciate the gesture and concern sincerely, make no mistake. Still, I point this out because to me it is demonstrative of our movement at large. Few people want to address the tough questions: Where are we going? Why aren't we more successful? How do we evolve our tactics? How do we create real and meaningful change? Most activists are willing to point out the good. Many are quick to get positive energy going. Even if at the end of the day nothing changes. It is easier than facing the often difficult truth.
Before I fell (came to prison) I saw a very common expression spray painted around town, in zines and movement rags. It was simple, defiant and full of hope. "We will win." It's been a long time since I've seen it in anything. It's been even longer since I've heard it said with any conviction. What happened to that fiery determination? What happened to riots in the streets? What happened to regular ELF activity? When did we lose our fighting spirit and how the hell do we get it back?
I've given my liberty for this struggle. I would have given my life if I thought it would have brought change. Because I believe our birthright was stolen from us. Because I believe in freedom; I believe our Earth and the web of life are sacred. Because I believe in you and your ability to bring change.
I think you are scared and I think change frightens you. I also think you are stronger than you know. There is a warrior inside of you waiting to be found; waiting for you to believe. Your fear is misplaced. No one should fear what will happen if they fight back. Everyone should fear what will happen to us if we don't.
I've given up on trying to inspire. I won't fight for anyone who won't fight for themselves. But I'll fight - alone or side by side with those willing to stand. However, I won't dare place hope in this movement. While it has demonstrated its ability to be a force for change, it has not shown a willingness to create it. Our accomplishments are few and far between. It is a harsh thing to say. I know of many positive examples that can be used to counter it. But, at the end of the day you still aren't free. Wealth is still controlled by governments and corporations. The ice caps are still melting.
With activist networks spanning the globe with the intelligence and knowledge I know we possess, there is only one reason things have not changed. We have yet to dedicate ourselves to the task. I'll believe "we will win" when you show it to me. I'll have hope for our future when you give it to me. If we aren't in this together then we are in this alone. One is an awfully lonely number. But I wrote about that already.
Jeffrey "Free" Luers 13797671 OSP 2605 State Street Salem, OR 97310
It's been a long time since I can remember being happy. It's been even longer since I can remember having hope. I don't respond to letters anymore. I don't write. I don't maintain friendships. This summer, for the first time, I seriously considered calling it quits and turning my back on the people of this struggle. In fact, I wrote it all out and read it every day for a week until I made my choice. When I close my eyes, I can feel my heart breaking. I feel the changes happening all over. I don't have to read the now daily headlines about climate change to know what has happened. I am a child of the Earth. I am a brother to all life on this planet-a part of an intricate web maintained by a delicate balance.
The balance has been disrupted and try as I might, I couldn't fix it. I can't fix it. I feel responsible. I feel answerable to future generations for what my peers have done. I feel accountable to my wild relations for what my kind has wreaked.
A sadness dwells in my heart that I have never felt before. It goes beyond my comprehension. Tears build in my eyes when I see pictures of melting ice caps. I am so sad for us and for the kids in my life that will inherit the future. How did we let this happen? How could we destroy our home? Our world is going to change. Things we once took for granted will become scarce. It is already starting.
It may be decades or years but our civilization is going to collapse. It is going to be a living hell if we are unprepared. Think New Orleans after Katrina only in every major city at once. As it is right now, we rely on this social structure to supply our food, water, electricity, protection and health care. When these items become scarce, it won't be the poor or disenfranchised that have access to them.
We need NOW to start working toward self-sufficiency. Every community needs to start preparing. Take classes on water purification. Build community garden spaces with year-round crops. Develop networks for skill-sharing and mutual aid.
Pretend that you, your family and friends-everyone you hold dear have just been abandoned to fend for yourselves. Travel is restricted. Supplies aren't coming in. You are completely on your own. What would you wish you had? How would you take care of each other?
These are questions that need to be answered. We failed on stopping climate change. We can't fail on being prepared. That failure will mean your life.
My friends-this is as serious as it gets. I pray that you understand the gravity of danger we face. Everything is changing. Every facet of life will be affected. Those who can adapt will have a chance. Those who take action and prepare will survive.
Jeffrey "Free" Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
Last week for the first time, I got to sit down with my support collective. It was the first time we had all been in the same room together – friends from Oregon, California, and New York. In fact, it was the first time in many years I had even seen one friend (love you bro). There was a strong undercurrent of emotion, most noticeable in those last moments where I walk through a different door. The visits were great. It was awesome to see my friends. It was also good to share ideas and get feedback. Especially, as some of my friends are moving in new and exciting directions in their own lives.
In the next months I expect many changes, from the level of activity to who is involved. We are making this transition to figure out not only how best people can support me, but how best I can contribute to the struggle.
One topic of discussion was my last two dispatches. In fact, there was some concern that I was going to disband the collective at this meeting. I realize that those dispatches were controversial and have generated a lot of responses. Good. I hope that I can say things that make you uncomfortable. I hope that I can challenge you. Most important, I sincerely hope that I can force you to challenge me back or grow as individuals and a movement.
On a daily basis I defend my actions in interviews with journalists, arguments with guards, and debates with prisoners. When I am confronted by fascists for being an anarchist, when I am teased for being a "feminist" – or as I prefer, an egalitarian – or when I’m called a hippie and a tree hugger, I stand my ground and force them to accept it or do something about it. I’m not looking for a fight but I sure as hell ain’t gonna back down from one.
Over the years, my debate skills have become so honed I can rattle off facts and numbers at the drop of the gloves. I know how bad things have gotten. I clip articles from dozens of sources. I keep notebooks full of information on climate change and U.S. tyranny. The knowledge physically makes me ill.
When I see the international level of support I have, I am more than awed. I am honored and incredibly grateful. I never ever expected it. I also feel extreme guilt – guilt that I am stealing resources from an already desperate movement. It is difficult for me to reconcile that with the good that I believe all your support and I have accomplished. It may be hard for people to understand, but I am more concerned with seeing us win than getting out of prison.
There are some that believe I am out of touch with the state of the movement today. Perhaps I am. Or perhaps it is just easier to dismiss things you don’t want to hear if you can dismiss the person saying them.
I know that historically when popular movements peak in this country it is at the crux of their militancy (with some exception). At this point, they either win or hit a brick wall. When the latter happens, momentum fades faster than you can say, "What the hell just happened?"
Even before 9/11 we started losing momentum. As the police learned how to respond to and prevent massive protests and riots by establishing "protest zones", we were unable to recover and adapt.
In Eugene, Oregon, and some other cities, all action stopped after my sentence. The state hitting back so hard scared the shit out of people. The deterrent worked; the illusion was shattered. This was no longer a game. Militancy took a sideline. People were scared and rightfully so. But, on the whole, instead of addressing the reasons for that fear, instead of looking for ways to adapt and overcome, our movement systematically began to avoid confrontation. We took our radical energy and redirected it into legitimate and socially acceptable channels.
9/11 became an excuse to avoid all militancy. True violent horror had visited us and it was an ugly sight. Many said this was not the time for militancy; America would not understand or approve. Everyone was affected differently by 9/11. Some, noticeably those in power, were not affected at all. Personally, when I see a group of foreign extremists striking on American soil killing innocent and guilty alike because of our government’s actions, I pray that those are actions *we* can address so that others do not take it upon themselves to do so.
9/11 was no excuse to forgo militancy. If anything, it was a reason to increase it. In the rest of the world’s eyes, this government acts on our behalf. If Americans do not challenge U.S. tyranny (at home or abroad) we are viewed as supporting it. Right or wrong, that has opened all Americans to attack.
Of course, it is not that simplistic. But my point is this: The rest of the world does not share in the knowledge that "the government for the people by the people" is a farce. We have every reason to be dismantling the U.S. war machine. We have every reason to smash industries that are contributing to global warming. We have every reason to be in the streets and up in arms. I challenge any radical to deny that. Hell, I challenge anyone who is truly paying attention to claim otherwise and back it up. We all know things are not improving; even if we don’t say it out loud.
It is vitally important to recognize the importance of all our tactics. I support folks working on single issues, be it shutting down HLS, cleaning up a local environment or reclaiming abandoned space. I support big protest, letter writing campaigns and meaningful reform. But I’m not going to give us a self-congratulatory pat on the back when we can and should be doing more.
Avoiding militancy is not the solution and is, frankly, bad form. What we should be doing is having honest conversations about what militancy can contribute and accomplish – how to use it strategically; how to avoid capture; and how the aboveground and underground can combine into a cohesive movement.
What we should be doing is going all out. Whatever method you subscribe to, you should push yourself. You should stretch your comfort zone and go two steps further. Until we make this movement a threat again, I’m sure my words will continue to upset people. That’s the thing about a nagging conscience. It only gets to you when you know you are wrong or you feel guilty. So I’m gonna ask you a real honest question. I hope you will answer it honestly and without defensiveness.
Are you doing all you can do, or could you be doing more?
I know that sometimes I’m gonna piss people off. But I can promise you one thing – I will fight side by side with you and this movement until the day I die.
I hope to see you answer in the news. I hope the whole country hears your voice.
Jeffrey Free Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
Back in ’98 when a friend and I started the Fall Creek Treesit, we sat alone in that forest; no ground-support, no other treesits – just us. We watched from our perch high in the canopy as Grandmother and Grandfather trees were felled to build the road. I remember spilling the coffee I was brewing on our little stove as I watched. My friend, the most mean and cynical man I’ve ever known, said the first and only kind words I’ve ever heard escape his lips:
Some will fall so that others may be saved.
The tears streamed down my face in silent protest of what I was witnessing. Below, the loggers jeered and laughed. I donned my climbing gear and my knife. I was going to the ground, and, one way or another, this was gonna end.
My friend stopped me. I don't even remember what he said. But I remember sitting there in spilled coffee, tears in my eyes. It is the most powerless and helpless I've ever felt.
I think back to that time now because I am feeling very similar. I'm sitting trapped in a cell watching the world go to shit and I can’t do a damn thing about it.
A couple of articles caught my eye the other day. One was about fish farming and the necessity of domesticating the ocean. The author, a scientist, went on to say that we have accepted the domestication of the land, now we must accept the domestication of the ocean; the days of wildness are over. The other article was about global warming. It said it was too late – not enough had been done, not enough would be done; all we can do is prepare for the consequences.
A friend sent me photos of the recent protests in Scotland. The army helicopters flying over, dropping off troops, protecting the rich – the elite – the only humans that matter. I was amazed (but not surprised) that people are still shocked by this. (I guess they don't remember US soldiers with M-60s at last years' G8.)
Back in the states the Patriot Act has been renewed. Bush just took away all the wilderness designations environmental reformists fought so hard to get. US courts have ruled it is legal for developers to demolish homes to build malls. And our prisons are filling with radical activists and would-be revolutionaries.
What can I do? My words cannot galvanize the masses. I can’t make people fight back. I am lost. I could write a guerilla manifesto on how to fight a successful revolution in the US, opening myself up to more consequences, maybe even more time. But would anyone act? Would anyone organize? Would any non-militants offer aid; offer to help put society back together? Would anyone open themselves up to the risk? Would you?
I think that I can answer all those questions: No. Inaction is the price of privilege. Hypocrisy is the cost of comfort. It is impossible to inspire by inciting feelings of guilt. I know this, but, it is also impossible to inspire when I believe it is a lost cause.
Even when I take into consideration the many brave cells out there fighting, and I know why they fight; in the depths of my spirit I know and I understand. I still believe we have lost. Those are the three words no one wants to hear. The words I am loathe to write. But maybe hearing them will slap you back to reality. This isn't a game. It sure as hell ain’t a fucking fairytale with a guaranteed happy ending.
The resistance is up to you. You can organize – really organize bringing people together. You can teach – not just your friends, but strangers. You can propagate the resistance with graffiti, stencils and flyers. You can create alternatives by squatting, guerilla gardening, creating and using alternative energies. You can become a militant – a smart one who learns how to cause the most damage and get away.
But what you can’t do it sit on your ass and flap your gums about how messed up things are. Because if you know how bad it is and you do nothing, you are the reason we lost. And you insult and betray everyone who has fought back. You spit in the face of those who have given their lives or lost their freedom demanding something better.
If our international movement cannot mount an offensive that is more than just a spectacle, then we deserve our fate. And I deserve 22 years for being foolish enough to believe we had a chance.
There are many who will continue to fight against all odds. Because for us, it is personal. If nothing else, we will go down fighting. That's a lot to ask of someone – asking them to fight a losing battle. But, I'm asking it of you. If we are going down, let’s go down swinging. Let’s make it the toughest, hardest fought battle this system has ever faced. And if we lose, at least we will have made them earn it; at least we won’t have just handed them the world. At least we will have made a stand.
There is no shame in losing a fight – if you fight. That's the only thing I expect of any human being – when they are pushed against a wall, they fight back. I expect that of you.
Jeffrey "Free" Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
I’m sitting here on my bunk, sipping strong coffee and listening to Crass. You punk rockers out there can understand the relevance of the latter. Writing was the last thing I intended to do when I got everything together a few minutes ago. But here I am.
By now I’ve received a rundown of all the June events held in various cities around the world this year. I am constantly amazed at the level of support I have received over the years. A day does not go by that I am not incredibly thankful to each and every one of you. And while most of you remain nameless and faceless to me you have earned a special place in my heart.
The last several months I’ve put a lot of thought into my support network and groups. And I’ve come to the conclusion that we have different goals. To the amazing credit of my friends and the people I work with, they have tried (and succeeded) in building an international campaign for my release. This outpouring of support has brought joyful tears to my eyes more than once.
I want to go home. I want it more than any "free" person can imagine. But, I don’t want to come home to the same world I left. In the five years I’ve been in prison things have only gotten worse. The sad truth is that while support has grown for environmental and social justice movements worldwide our ability to create change has waned. Even the ability of moderate and mainstream groups to lobby reform has become languid. The media, better than anyone, has shown the dividing lines: the liberals versus the right. Despite the various factions existing in both camps, one thing is clear - no one is disputing the fact that there is an "us and them." Regardless of which group you identify with your enemy is clearly defined – he’s on the other side.
I know that my name graces internet hit lists; that those who label me a terrorist never want me to see the light of day. I know that my sentence is as much about punishing my beliefs as it is about intimidating you. The world is not dying, it is being killed. It is being killed by the same governments and same corporations that are killing people.
The best way that anyone can support me is not by asking for my freedom, but by demanding your own. Support me by fighting back. We are all in this together, only the size of our cages differs.
They only have power because we have yet to recognize our own. The passion that rules our hearts must be unleashed. Great acts are not born of great men or women. They are born of ordinary people who dare to fight for a dream. Please, on my knees I beg you, be as daring as the world you believe in. Fight for it as if all you hold sacred is on the line. Because, it just might be.
Jeffrey "Free" Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
I woke up a few days ago and realized I’d been in prison for five years. I was expecting some kind of sadness, possibly even regret. Thing was, it didn’t phase me one bit and that made me laugh. I looked around my little cage; briefly thought of the people and life that I have lost. I thought to myself "is this it, is this the best They can do?"
Five years later, and I still love, I still hurt, I still get angry. I still stare at the sky with awe and wonder. I am still free! And I defy my captors with every smile, every laugh, and every treasonous thought. I am alive and strong and I will continue to fight because the spirit is with me.
Recently, I was asked by The Oregonian what has kept my spirits so high. My response was easy. I told her, "I am right. I know I’m right and more importantly I know I’ve made a difference."
Each day it becomes more clear what we are losing. Worse, it becomes unbearably recognizable how much we have already lost. We are killing our planets’ ability to sustain human life. We are allowing freedom to be subverted by tyranny. Freedom is a birthright. Freedom can not be granted. It cannot be given. It cannot be locked away!
But, freedom can be given up. It can stop raging inside of you. It can be easier to be a slave. Compliance with this State, its corporations and their treaties is one of choice. Are there consequences to not complying? Yes, and they are severe. But acquiescence is a validation of their rule. Failure to resist legitimizes everything from taking civil liberties away to destroying the planet.
Is there still a fire inside you? Is there still a righteous anger? Will you choose to live in a cage you have the key to? These are tough questions. It is easy to get defensive in response. The truth is often as hard to hear as it is beautiful.
One person can inspire hundreds to resist. Hundreds can inspire thousands. We are holding back ourselves when more than ever we should be fighting. Fighting with words AND actions. Fighting with conviction, honor and love. Fighting to win. Fighting because we are right. Fighting because it is the right thing to do. Fighting because this is your fight!
Are you a slave or will you be free?
Jeffrey "Free" Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
I can always tell when spring has arrived. The air smells different, the atmosphere feels different, and I always feel the urge to rabble rouse. It is tradition every year around this time for DOC and I to butt heads. Perhaps, it is a primal response to each other’s existence. But whatever the reason, this years dance has begun.
As many of you may be aware, back in 2003 I was thrown in the hole for writing an article published in the Earth First! Journal about my experiences and beliefs. The timing of my isolation suspiciously coordinated with the first day of protest against my sentence. For the past two years I’ve been questioned about my plans for June (as if I have any say in what you all do – but rock hard). Ever since my time in the hole I have been denied the ability to have journalists come to interview me. That denial appears to have now been extended to include CNN. The level of censorship also includes my outgoing mail, specifically my artwork. My drawing of 3 people in a cloud of teargas, one womyn holding a slingshot, another a molotov like a candle and a man holding a brick has been censored. The prison refuses to allow me to mail it because "it endorses and supports anarchist activity."
Not only is this a violation of "law", it flies in the face of logic. It is too dangerous to mail out, but I can keep it in the prison safely. No one ever said you had to be smart to work here. I am already challenging this issue, but I suspect it will be many months before the public can view it.
The implications of this are not good however. They may soon try to censor anything I say or write claiming it supports anarchist or ELF activity. Remember, if they can do it to me, they may soon do it to you.
Things are starting to go down hill fast in this country. Not just the draconian laws being passed, but the repression of dissent. History has shown us time and again that tyranny is best challenged early because once established it is at its most formidable. We must not make this mistake. We must not lose momentum or cower from fear of the state. But most important of all YOU can not rely on another to make a stand for you. Practice what you believe.
There is so much a small group of people can accomplish, and our numbers are far from few. Recognize the power you have. Look around your city or town; find the sources of injustice and oppression whether it is a corporation or a state agency. Challenge it, fight on your terms, try something new, and use unconventional means. Above all, find a way to win.
My friends, my sisters and brothers, we have been idle too long. The foundation for tyranny and oppression is set. The WTO, the Bush administration, homeland security… how much more must we take? How much longer will we wait? It is not for nothing that we dream! We have a right to struggle and take back what is ours. We have a responsibility to create something that is better. If you believe this, if you feel freedom stirring in your blood, if injustice make you sick and oppression fires your rage, then you MUST do something. Inaction speaks as loudly as action, but it says something completely different.
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
Ten days into the month and already I'm overwhelmed with so much happening in my life.
Loss used to be something I had a hard time coping with, but in the last few years I've become so accustomed to it that it's routine. Lose privileges - visits, phone calls. Lose mail because it gets "lost." Lose friends and family because out of sight is out of mind. Lose love because she shouldn't have to wait or cope for 22 years. Lose support because I support the destruction of the United States government and its corporate allies - through force if necessary.
The more I lose the stronger I get. The more the state throws at me the more power I have. The more I am alone the braver I become. It makes no sense, but it is true.
Everything that could break my spirit has failed. Every challenge to my morale I've overcome. I cannot be broken and every obstacle I must face only reconfirms that truth. Our struggles for freedom and liberation, our fight for the earth, they have been beaten and crushed. Yet each time they rise again. Through attack, infiltration, and despair they have survived.
We cannot be defeated. We can only be stopped by our own inhibitions. The power of one voice is incredible. The strength of one brick, one match, one can of spray-paint can move us closer to victory. The power of many voices acting as one is unstoppable.
The time is drawing near to act or accept failure. Unlike struggles of the past this one has a time limit: toxic waste, nuclear weapons, and pollution have seen to that. Each day the state grows stronger. They know eventually crisis will hit and people will act out of desperation.
Before that day comes you must act from courage. You must act from love and desire to see that day never come. They have billboards. We have walls. Let's see which is more powerful. I challenge you to act. Unleash your propaganda. Revolution is coming.
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
This dispatch is long overdue. I apologize for that. I intended to write this weeks ago, but ended up catching a food-borne viral infection that infected more than 300 people at 2 different prisons. It effectively put me out of commission for about a week.
By the time I was recovered I was bombarded with writing and other projects which I still haven't gotten caught up with.
I have been asked to give a speech, via phone, at the 23rd Annual Environmental Law Conference being held at the University of Oregon next month. I know there was some debate as to whether I was an appropriate speaker. I appreciate all those who encouraged my participation.
Recently, I was also contacted by CNN, which, honestly, took me by surprise. They would like to interview me about the environmental movement and my case. The real challenge will be if ODOC will allow the interview. I have been denied the last four media requests.
A few weeks ago I spoke with my attorney about my appeal. For some reason the court is not ready to hear my case. I don't quite understand this as I am no longer waiting on the establishment of case precedent needed to resolve issues in my case.
I have always expected my appeals to be lengthy. However, I am going on four years on my first appeal. I'm beginning to get a little annoyed.
The only upside is that because of new sentencing laws I will have to be resentenced. The only question is how much time the Court of Appeals will ordered reduced.
Hopefully, in the next few weeks I'll be able to write a more indepth dispatch addressing some important issues that I focus on in my speech.
For the time being, though, I just wanted to give you all a general idea of what is going on with me. As always I am thankful for your interest and support.
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
I have struggled with writing this for the last several weeks. In fact, I’m starting at several of the previous attempts in front of me as I try to find the words I need to say. Forgive my lapses in these dispatches. I’ve been doing them for a year now. I have strived to inspire people with my words. At times, I have tried to inspire action. However, the majority of the time I have tried to inspire you to look within your self and see your true strength and power-to find the courage to be free.
Too often, we accept the roles forced upon us whether they be stereotypes or the obligations of a content citizen. Sometimes, we create our own role to hide behind, afraid to face our true selves or our fears. The walls can be built so thick we can almost forget we have become guided by pain or fear.
In my life, I have been guilty of both and on more than one occasion. In fact, I am guilty right now. I feel an obligation to every person out there who looks up to me or admires me. I feel an obligation to a movement that expects its political prisoners to stand strong in the face of all adversity.
Many of the decisions I have made in the last four years I have made because of these obligations.
A friend of mine recently said to me, “What people don’t get is there is the image of "Free" the world sees and then there is the guy I’m walking the track with’.
I have dedicated my entire adult life to the struggles I believe in. My sense of honor demands no less and despite all of my failures, personal and political, I am proud of myself. It’s a personal victory. I found the courage to be me. But, lately I can’t remember if I’m Free or Jeff or the two are even interchangeable. It’s not that I’ve forgotten who I am. I’ve forgotten who I want to be.
So, now I must find the courage to let go of obligations; self-created or otherwise. I’m not a role model or a leader and I sure as hell ain’t the hope for a better future-because that’s you. No, I’m just a simple guy with a big heart and a lot of dreams. Actually, I’d like to think the only difference between you and I is that I got caught.
I’ve entered a stage in my life where I need to reevaluate what I need to be doing. There have been many changes in how I view my life, the people in it and my goals. This will be my last dispatch until my appeal is decided or I feel the need to say something. I’m not sure which will happen first.
Of course, I will continue to write articles and editorials as inspiration strikes. I will continue to stand strong in the face of all adversity, not because it is expected of me, but because I demand it of myself. We are all warriors, only our battlefields vary. Freedom is your birthright. Take it!
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
Well, uh, it looks like I did it again. Been thinking about writing one of these for a few weeks now. OK, first off, I'm not really that far behind. I wrote a dispatch about a month ago but it seems to have disappeared. I may have to rewrite it but until then…
My oral arguments for appeal have been postponed again. But, for a good reason this time. The US Supreme Court recently ruled that it was illegal for judges to sentence people to longer sentences than state sentencing guidelines allow. The court held that sentencing that is increased by a judge's belief in aggravating factors basically consists of new charges or crimes that need to be brought before a judge.
As this case directly affects my case (I had three years extra added by the Judge), the appellate court has given me and the state time to file arguments.
Anyone who knows me well, knows that I'm incredibly pessimistic about the 'justice' system. However, having reviewed the case law and hearing the true excitement in my attorney's voice, I believe it is possible that I may receive a sentence reduction as low as 9 years.
There has also been quite a bit of excitement here at Camp Snoopy aka Oregon State Penitentiary. A few weeks ago, an organized boycott of canteen and the phones started. Almost monthly, the canteen has been raising prices and in April, collect call rates went up. To give you an idea, it costs $25 to call friends in Eugene and $30 to call my parents in the LA. These are 30 minute phone calls.
The boycott demands were quite simple. Stop exploiting us with artificially high prices. Bring back education and vocational training programs and provide better food and medical services. In typical fashion, the prison authorities responded harshly to people refusing to use their 'privileges'. After all, a million dollar industry was being brought to its knees. The prison went on modified lockdown, more guards and guns were brought in and dozens of people went to the hole or got shipped out.
Early into the second week of the boycott, the administration appeared to be willing to negotiate. It remains to be seen what, if any, change will occur. However, the prison has said it is building a classroom (of course, we already have 6 not in use).
I encourage everyone to support this struggle by writing or emailing the Governor of Oregon and requesting that the exploitation of inmates and their families through high phone and canteen prices come to an end. Request the Governor do a full investigation to the lack of education, job skills and vocational training in Oregon's prisons.
In other news…You all probably know that I am routinely the target of harassment by prison guards. This has become so normal to me that I am desensitized to it, actually, sometimes it can be really funny. It would seem however that others are not so amused. Not so long ago, I was approached by a Sergeant and this is what they had to say to me.
"I see they are picking on you again. I don't know how you can stand it. It makes me sick. I just can't stand the injustice of it all. God, it makes me mad!"
It reminded me of a recent interview Ron Arnold, founder of the Center for the Defense of Free Enterprise and consumption rights activist, recently did. He said he is convinced that I am not a member of the ELF which to him is akin to saying 'he's not a terrorist".
He went on to say that my harsh sentence "cheapens the justice system". (Well Ron, you are right that I claim no allegiance to any group though I can think of quite a few acronyms I strongly support).
My point is this. I may be locked in jail. Our movement may be losing. But are we beginning to turn their people? You hear that Feddie? You are no longer safe from your own people. From behind prison walls, my words are spreading. I'm making allies and sympathizers with those who wear badges. Some of your strongest patriots are beginning to question your justice.
The tides are beginning to turn. Today's terrorists are becoming tomorrow's freedom fighters. More and more people everywhere are beginning to question why people like me, people like you…hell, people like my parents are being labeled terrorists. The state loves to be in absolute control. When that fails, control through fear will work just as well. But, when the state loses the ability to instill fear, then change is blowing in the wind.
To those in power, I have this to say. I can see why you are afraid. I get letters from your children. They know the world you are building is unfit for them. Even your own are starting to know it. They are looking for new alternatives, new solutions. Mr. Politicians, Ms. Corporate Business. Officer Friendly-you are running out of places to hide.,
For the Earth, for the wild, for the oppressed,
Up the rebels,
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
I'm looking at a picture of someone I love very much. It's late into the night, my blood is full of caffeine and I wish I was drunk instead. I'm listening to Casey Neill-his music helps me remember.
I was just living out a fantasy in my head where I remembered what life can be. Sometimes, when I close my eyes I can almost smell the forest. I can almost visualize the constellations. I can almost feel her touch.
Late at night, I think about my dreams. Not ones of revolution. I think about my deepest personal desires. I dream about my life after prison, as it will happen tomorrow. I want all the things I never had time for or I shunned for my struggle.
I want to share my life with that someone special. I mean really share my life not just share space. I want love, laughter, joy, sorrow, silence, passion and adventure. I want to garden, wash dishes and cook together. I want someone who can teach me things I don't know and at the end of the day, still make me smile like it was the first time we met.
A lot of folks probably have that dream which makes me pretty normal, I guess. But, I worry that maybe I already found that, maybe my moment has passed. That is the biggest sacrifice I made for my beliefs.
I start to think about what my life will be like without a home, alone, trying to readjust to friends and family I haven't seen outside a visiting room for years. I think about the perfect scenario too. She's there and all the years waiting and hoping wash away. But will I freak out the first time I wake up and find someone in my bed? Will I stand in front of doors waiting for them to open?
Of course, by this time I realize I'm tired, it's late and I've got a ways to go before I need to worry about such things. I laugh a little and take another glance at a smiling photo. Goddess, sometimes I seem to find myself in the strangest of places. To think, I was gonna write letters tonight.
Love-life-revolution. Life-Love. Are they really all that different? To hell with politics, what do you really want? Ain't that what its really about-what we really want? There are too many damm politics in life to begin with. That's what got us so screwed up in the first place.
I don't want my politics to come true. I want my dreams too.
I wrote that this winter and promptly put it in my stack of writings never to share with the world. I came across it the other morning clearing out my things.
Yesterday, I also got a letter from a friend and comrade I've known for years. He wrote that he was upset by my June 3rd dispatch because it could have discouraged people from June 12th he adds, but I don't think it did.
Reactions like that are the reason I usually don't share such personal thoughts. Now, they are also the reason I will start sharing them. Life is not about politics (and politics sure as hell ain't about life). Life is about living. Likewise, our struggle should be about living and not about politics.
I didn't get involved in this fight because of the general evil of the system and state. I got involved because of my personal dreams of freedom and happiness. I fight in the hopes that one day, I will be free to live my life as I see fit.
When we make our struggle impersonal, it loses its passion. It becomes political and not revolutionary. Quite often, I'm told I write very well, that I have a way with words. I can see that I do not because I don't know how to convey this simplest of messages…
The feeling I get when I stay up all night with a lover to watch the sun rise, when I drink pure water straight from a stream, when I walk down a street without fear, when I breathe fresh, clean air. That is freedom. That is my birthright. That is why I fight because someone got the idea that they could grant that and take it away as they please.
My passion comes from my love for life and there is a barrier barring me from truly enjoying it. That barrier is capitalism and the oppression and destruction associated with it.
When I look into the eyes of young children, I see hopes uncorrupted by the knowledge that civilization is the destroyer of dreams. I know these children will face worse than me. I fear many will be raised to believe in lies and accept a mediocre life, as so many adults have.
Life can be better than this. We don't have to take what we've been handed just because it has been handed to us. We don't have to be passive in pursuit of our dreams. We can fight for them. We can fight for them! That's why we have feet so we don't have to live on our knees.
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
Wow. I’ve started getting feedback about how well things went on June 12th. Thank you, everyone. All day Saturday, I could feel the energy of so many people. The prison officials could feel it too.
The Department of Corrections released a bulletin about the day. It told guards to be prepared for an anarchist threat and the possibility of anarchists showing up at the prison. I heard guards talking about being ready to fire on demonstrators and already getting their stories straight. They also made it clear for my benefit t hat if anything started inside the prison, they knew who to shoot first. That made me smile.
The day was totally awesome for me. I got to speak with Kevin Price and Claude Marks on the phone. Ramona Africa also gave me very inspirational words which deeply touched my heart. Klee, from the band Blackfire, sang me a very beautiful traditional Dine song about strength of heart. The phone was passed around to many friends, some of who have been continually subject to FBI harassment for being involved in my support.
Several people across the country were intimidated or harassed by agents for supporting me., It is a clear sign of the government’s fear that it is losing its power of intimidation. My sentence was supposed to discourage people, not inspire them. All of you have inspired me.
I’d like to ask folks that were targeted by the FBI-if you have business cards or the names of the agents that harassed you, please mail or email copies to the POB Box or website. [ed note: POB 3, Eugene, OR 97440 and/or info@freejeffluers.org ] I want these people to know that every time they harass someone, their name and all the information we have on them will be posted on my website.
However, I do owe a great deal of thanks to the FBI. If it was not for their bulletin, I would not have had half the media coverage that ‘J12’ received. Thank you very much-you have done a great service.
I am so thankful for everything you all did. It will take weeks to learn all the details of everything but my utmost gratitude to Eugene, Oregon; Morgantown, West Virginia; Moscow, Russia and everywhere else. I look forward to hearing your stories.
Additionally, I’d like to revisit my June 3rd dispatch. I’ve been getting a lot of feedback from people about how sad it made them. The reason I wrote that is because I needed people to understand that this experience is not political to me-it is personal. I don’t want people to romanticize my situation or me because it would happen to anyone of you. I’m not here for burning SUVs-that is only part of it. I’m here because I will not bow my head. The government and the way our society is structured is wrong. It gives full power to a privileged few. I will resist that until it changes or I die because it offends my belief in freedom.
But I’ll save that tirade for another time. Be safe, be courageous and keep fighting. The tides are beginning to turn.
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
Generally, I strive to keep these little writings of mine impersonal. This time, I’m going to do the opposite.
In two weeks, I’ll have been in prison 4 years. It is not a big number but the closer it gets, the longer it feels. Despite my ability to always keep my head high and to remain strong and determined, I feel the years taking a toll on me.
I’m having a really hard time. This is difficult for me to say. It is hard for me to acknowledge.
I can’t share feelings anymore. I can’t share how bad my heart hurts at watching the sun set over a wall. I keep secrets from my best friend because I no longer know how to share them or because I simply cannot bring myself to, I let things go unsaid. Really, when I ain’t going anywhere for 18 years, what is the point in saying them? It usually makes things harder anyway.
The other day, I explained to my mom why she should not have hope for my release on appeal or a shorter sentence or anything. I explained that 99% of all appeals are denied. She cried and told me all she wants is for me to get out before her, my dad and oma (my 94 year old grandma) die. You want to know what I said? I said, I can’t have your hope on my conscience.
Most nights and days for that matter, I sit with a photo album looking at pictures of people I love. In my mind and often in my heart, I tell them things that I’ll never tell them in real life. I share dreams that I know can’t come true. I tell them that I no longer have any hope for my own life.
I am not a martyr and I am not hero. I don’t fit some perfect archetype and I cant live up to any ideal of what so many people think I am. I’m just a man who loves without being able to say the words and who cries without being able to shed tears. I chose this life. I chose the possibility of prison. I chose to forsake my personal life for that which I believed in. It was not out of any altruistic or self-sacrifying desire. I chose this life because I don’t think I could live with myself if I did not.
I’ll never know if in the end I could have or if in the end, I would have regretted not doing more. I also know that because of my choices, I’m missing out on experiencing true love. I’m missing that freight train ride across Canada and I’m missing that little piece of land out in the country where I could grow my food, hunt, fish and live in peace for the rest of my days as mother nature intended.
I’m not sure I’ll ever know if I made the right choice or if it was worth it. I don’t have any regrets about my actions, not my choices for that matter. I can live with them but sometimes especially late at night, when I’m, looking at a picture of a smiling face, they can be incredibly hard to bear.
This is my lot in life as I await my 43rd birthday. It will be my last birthday in nail. After , if we still have a world, I can walk out into it no longer understanding it no longer having the dreams I have now. Perhaps along, hopefully with a friend- I can start all over trying to find a place in a life I’ve forgotten how to live. When I think about the future, I think about the year 2022.
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
It feels like it has been a long week but I can't seem to recall doing a whole lot of stuff. I think everything just takes longer in here and in the end, I look at it and think 'that's all I did. Damm, I feel tired."
I've been having a lot of dialogue with my fellow prisoners about what it would really take to bring change in this country. A lot have different answers and more have no answers at all. One thing is sure-most people want this system gone.
Been writing a lot this week about those talks. Trying to develop solutions to our problems. And one thing hit me. We try so hard as a movement to challenge the state from mass action to clandestine attacks to literature and propaganda. But what do we put back into our communities? There is Food not Bombs. Some cities have guerilla garden projects and maybe a handful have some squatters or homeless rights actions.
There is not enough happening in the returns department. For change to occur, another viable option has to exist. We are long from creating that but we can start winning the hearts and minds of our neighbors.
Ever notice how big corporations make big shows at 'giving back' to the community? Honda has an inner city parks programs. Chevron buys land to 'preserve' in the name of conservation. That is valuable propaganda for them. It makes them look good in the public eye.
This is something we can do and we need to. Why don't we have our own food banks? I think it would be pretty easy to put together an anarchist/revolutionary/activist (whatever the hell) community service crew. Fixing up folks' leaky roofs, helping people set up gardens, cleaning up parks-anything that shows we want to help our community be a better place. Perhaps, a bike program. Establishing a place to teach people how to read and write. Basically, creating programs that help people. See revolution is not about politics-it is about life. This is why we have been so unsuccessful. Most people don't care about the government. They don't vote or pay attention to politics because it doesn't change anything for them. Here we are fighting politic with politics. It doesn't work and we'll never win that way. When we can demonstrate the ability to change lives, we will have the strength we need to challenge the state.
Obviously, it is more difficult than that. But I know real change is going to start in our own streets -not on the streets that the next big protest happens.
All right, that's my little rant for now. I have a few important updates though., I made a pretty silly error in asking folks to get all the sign on petitions back by June 1st. I'm not sure what I was thinking because for those holding events on June 12, that is a perfect time to get signatures. So, please forgive my error-the deadline has been extended to July 1st. I apologize for my inconvenience.
Don't I sound all official?
The other big update is my appeal. Oral arguments have been postponed until late July. No date has been firmly set so it may be moved again. I got the feeling that the court is not very anxious to hear my case.
Many thanks to all the folks out there holding events and working to get me out of prison. Much love and gratitude to all those struggling to free us all from oppression.
Up the rebels,
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
OK. Well, I've been less frequent with these than I originally intended. I'm not gonna make any promises but I'm going to try and fix that.
First off, I have an urgent notice. Calls from prison have always been expensive. It costs my family over $30 for one phone call and over $20 to call my friends only an hour away from here. On April 15, Qwest and AT&T, the phone carriers in Oregon prisons, raised their rates making the new fees retroactive to April 1st.
Months ago, we were promised phone cards that would dramatically reduce the phone fees by up to 40%-which is still too much cash. In an evil twist, the new phone fees were raised to a connection fee of $3.95 for the first minute and 69 cents for each additional minute for an interstate call. The new phone card will allow inmates to have a discounted rate that is the same as the old collect call rate of $2.35 and 45 cents. AT&T, Qwest and ODOC have decided to collect a fortune off of prisoner by raising our rates and then offering is a discount of the old rate. Please feel free to contact companies and give them a piece of your mind.
It has been a hot spring here in Oregon. Last weekend, temps hit 89 degrees and we have reached 80 degrees a few times since then. For the last few years, the 80 degree mark was not reached until May. The world over has seen a rise in temperature for the last ten years. Earlier this week, the state of Washington had a tornado bring havoc. All over we are witnessing bizarre weather patterns as nature reacts to a human made crisis.
Millions of people from the poorest to the richest nations have recognized a need for action against future climate change. In the late 90's, a team of international scientists stepped forward with the horrible news that we cannot prevent the greenhouse effect-we can at this point only take steps to keep it from getting worse.
That was the discussion that occurred at the first meeting in Kyoto. Here we are 7 years later and no steps have been taken to stop the industrial march of destruction. The depletion of ozone and climbing temperatures is very much like cancer. It can sneak up on you without your knowledge and kill you. However, if caught early, it is treatable.
16 years have passed since the Environmental Policy Institute warned that only the total and rapid phase out of all ozone depleting chemicals could stop global warming. The arrogance of the human race is astounding as nations steadfastly refuse to even acknowledge the possibility of a problem. Those that do saw we can adapt, believing we are immune from the devastation nature has brought this planet before.
The UK Observer recently reported that conclusive evidence shows we are currently in the sixth extinction the planet has had. It points to manmade causes. The warnings given a decade ago are coming true and still they are ignored.
I do not have the words to express the urgency of the matter which is why in June of 2000, I let my actions speak. It is of the greatest importance that we bring all ozone depleting and carbon-emitting industries to a dead stop now. We do not have another 5 years to figure this out. 5 years from now, these actions will come too late. We need mass action now. Everyday, every hour, we must be in the streets until those in power have no choice to listen to us. We must shut it down. It must be a priority. Do not wait, do not hesitate.
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
I'd just started this dispatch about an hour ago but it turned into an article I very much needed to write. So, now I'm done with that so I'll write this.
Those of you who have been keeping up with these things know that I've dedicated this year of my life to writing and working toward real change. Along those lines I've teamed up with a friend and fellow political prisoner, Rob Thaxton to put together a zine focusing on creating change. I anticipate this being a lengthy process and likely not available until the end of the year.
In the meantime, I will also be writing other pieces to keep the flow going. We gotta keep piling on the pressure and keep the ideas flowing until we can build the alternative.
I do have a legal update to share. The last paperwork has been filed in my appeal. I should have oral arguments in April or May. After words, the court may take as long as it needs to render a decision. My attorney has done a great job often times taking my own arguments and rewording them in 'legalese'. Event though we have had our disagreements, I can say that I am encouraged by all the work he has done.
Still, I am all too aware of the way that the system works and I believe that is quite likely that the court will affirm without opinion my conviction and sentence. With a case as politically charged as mine, it is probably that the Appeals court will pass the burden of deciding to the State Supreme Court. The Supreme Court is the last line of my direct appeal. After that, I have ways to challenge the sentence and conviction but each attempt is increasingly unlikely.
I am prepared for this outcome should it happen and I have plans should my appeals fail to continue to challenge the state both in and out of the courtroom. If this ends up being the case, I hope that I can count on your continued support.
You can help me most right now by downloading a copy of my 'statement of support' and gathering as many signatures as you can (names, signature, occupation, city, state) and mailing them to my POB (POB 3, Eugene, OR 97440) no later than June 1st. These signatures will be part of a package to the United Nations petitioning for recognition as a political prisoner.
Thanks for taking the time to read what I write and thank you for your support.
Jeffrey Luers
13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
PS-While I'm sure some of you are aware of this, Tre Arrow was captured recently. We do not yet know what kind of stand he is going to make on the charges against him but he must have our support and we must support him in the manner he requests.
Well, I guess that the authorities really like these little writings of mine. It would seem that the last one took 2 weeks before leaving the prison. I imagine the prisoncrats gathered around to discuss the merits of my writings. I picture them deeply engaged in conversation laughing and cracking jokes. Perhaps one of them holds the slightest sense of doubts and questions “what if…” But, for the others, it is just another day protecting society from the scum of the Earth. Today, that scum happens to be me.
My writings have to be reviewed, photocopies and archived. My words are a threat. I may encourage, incite or promote. I may advocate, educate or worse-I may just tell the truth.
At present, all requests for interviews with me are being denied. Since September of last year, journalists have been denied face-to-face interaction with me. I have to ask: what makes what I have to say so dangerous that my every word must be analyzed and recorded? Why can’t I sit face to face with a journalist? Might I say something that couldn’t be censored? Why have they already threatened and punished me for my writings?
Your guess is as good as mine. I’m not someone special or powerful. I’m not saying anything that hasn’t been said before. The more I think about it, though, the more I think I’m not the threat. I think you are-the people reading this. They aren’t scared of what I might say, they are terrified you might listen-that you might act.
How does that make you feel? You are so powerful you can frighten the system. I know how it makes me feel. It gives me hope.
Some people would say with all I’ve done, both in and out pf prison, I’ve accomplished a lot. I’ll always wish that I could have done more but realistically, for the circumstances, I’ve had an impact on people since I’ve been locked up. I know this.
I also know that you are not limited like I am. I know that you have the power to make all the difference in the world. I know that because of you, the world we live in may one day be the world we wish it to be. I believe in your strength. I believe in your abilities and not because I’m dreaming or because I have to have hope. I have faith in you because I know the power one person has. I know the difference one person can make. I know there are 100s, 1000s and millions of you. I know why those in power are frightened…they have good reason.
It is only our lack of collective action and feeling of disempowerment that allows things to stand. Once people realize that they are more powerful than any army on Earth, things will change. When the cities stop, the systems back home will crack. The future is unwritten-who do you want to do the writing?
One by one we rise,
Jeffrey Luers
#13797671
OSP
2605 State Street
Salem, OR 97310
I think it's been a month since I've written one of these. I've tried on several occasions but simply could not find the words I wanted. It's a new year and the question is, will it be like the last?
Personally, I have many battles ahead and the STG [ed-security threat group] staff and ODOC [ed-Oregon Department of Corrections] have already let me know they too are gearing up. Recent events have let me know that once again I am a target for harassment this year.
I know that I will continue to fight an uphill battle in the courts as I challenger a corrupt system that has labeled me a terrorist. On top of this, I will struggle with daily life and emotions as I try to figure my own life out, my relationships with others both in and out of prison, and I try to find some kind of happiness and those things each one of us desire-love, trust, passion and hope.
But what of the greater challenges ahead?
Recently, I was talking politics and revolution with a friend and she said to me the last thing we need is 19-year-old boys fighting a revolution. I think she was referring to me at 19. Sure enough, I don't feel as invincible now as I did then.
Still, that's not the point she was making. Our society is not ready for a revolution. Women still get raped everyday, communities are still divided along racial lines, people still don't care about one ano