MIM Theory censored in California for having revolutionary articles
Dear MIM:
I am writing to inform you that the literature that you sent me was not allowed and should be on its way back to you. Enclosed is a copy of the disapproval form and a copy of our California Code of Regulations Title 15. I marked the section CCR 3006(c). I am appealing the decision with a 602. I do now know what was sent and did not sign the form because it was not opened in front of me. I'll keep you up to date with the progress of the appeal 602. It's a disappointment for me because I want to educate myself but am unable to. My appeal is copied below:
On 2-16-02 I was informed that incoming mail/package "literature" was not allowed per CCR 3006(c) "material has revolutionary articles and articles based on or about violence." which was being returned to sender. This material is historical literature. The continence is based on he forming of what is called the United States of American and the struggles of people of color. It may have violence within its pages but no more than a daily newspaper, Time or Newsweek magazine which speaks on war and murder. Racism is unfair because the institutional library here at CCI-Tehachapi is allowed to issue these types of materials...
-- a prisoner in California, CCI Tehachapi, February 2003
MIM responds:
There is no justification in the California mail regulations which states that revolutionary material can be rejected based on its content. The CDC is violating its own policies with this censorship. The literature censored was a copy the MIM Theory magazine, "Amerikan Prisons on Trial". We are particularly alarmed by this censorship because we are beginning a state-wide study group in the California prisons reading this theory journal. This is a clear attempt to stop prisoners from educating themselves and participating in revolutionary education. We need help from lawyers on the outside to join the fight against censorship being waged by MIM and our comrades behind bars.