Repression breeds resistance

I've read your letters concerning censorship of MIM Notes at CSATF. Your letters are well written, and as usual CDC plays on safety and security, and on public fear to manipulate events, conditions, etc. Nothing but b.s. I believe that you will successfully litigate this case. A case ruling in favor of CDC in this matter will only prove once again governmental conspiracy against the masses.

As much as I hate to say this, I believe that the present prison population here wouldn't take physical action even if MIM Notes were allowed. I've been in prison nearly 18 years and have seen the prison population become submissive, commonplace, complacent, etc. Many have their priorities twisted or are plain selfishly parasitic.

If prisoners revolt from within the prison system, it will not be due to any publication, it will be the result of the government's oppressive, repressive rules, laws, and practices. A person needs not to know how to read to revolt against oppression.

By no means get me wrong, MIM Notes is not only informative but it is news from the people, to the people, it educates.

- a California prisoner (and jailhouse lawyer), May 2006

MIM responds: We agree that it is conditions that will inspire the masses to fight back. We are under no illusions that MIM Notes will be the vehicle for revolution or even revolt within the prisons. But is a an important a tool for agitation and education. This means that we need comrades, both in the prisons and on the streets, using the newspaper to educate and organize people. With this organizing work will effectively we bring together those who oppose a common enemy in the criminal injustice system, and the larger system of imperialism. And we will also educate those who do not yet see the system for what it is.