Judiciary Committee Hearing on the Jena 6
May still be in progress. Rizoh has the 411.
I haven't gotten back to my roundup of hip hop support of the Jena 6 [I will] but big ups to everybody that's been pushing this thing. This isn't the end by any means but it's a great example of how online advocates helped build the initial critical mass that encourages folks like Al Sharpton to step up and provide much needed media visibility.
Related Material:
Ethan Brown feels that the "most useful outcome of the Jena 6 protests is the interest in sentencing reform coming from the likes of Barack Obama and Senator Jim Webb" and links through to a related article.
That's an excellent point since sentencing reform is desperately needed nationwide though I would say most immediately and obviously useful.
I think that's just one example of what could come from a sustained campaign for justice in the Deep South. I don't say that out of nostalgia for the Civil Rights movement. I say that from what such movements have taught us.
Sharpton failed to show up.
Posted by: dsf | October 16, 2007 at 01:06 PM
I was referring to Sharpton's trip to Jena, if that's what you mean.
I'm surprised he couldn't make it. Must have had some serious conflicts.
Posted by: Clyde Smith | October 16, 2007 at 01:25 PM
It will be interesting to see if any pressure is placed on the committee, to watch and monitor if it will be more than just talk.
If it worked for steroids, maybe it can work for racism.
Posted by: Jarrett Carter | October 16, 2007 at 04:07 PM
"if it worked for steroids"
I guess we find hope wherever we can!
Posted by: Clyde Smith | October 16, 2007 at 07:20 PM
the committe hearing on the Jena 6 is an futile effort of showmanship. The causes and justification for what happened in Jena are not new to the American experience. 1. The 6 should file MALICIOUS PROSECUTION charges against the D.A. "I can end your life with the stroke of a pen". 2. So called "Black" politicans and civic leaders will continue to use "incidents" (how the legal system defines it)such as these not as a catalyst for change put to solidify their positions and prestige. "Victims" as black americans are seen, will always recive sympathy...until they fight back. To be born Black in America is to resist...Passive & Non-violent do not belong in the same context as RESISTANCE.
Posted by: lamarqus | November 15, 2007 at 02:55 PM