Supporters of Mumia Abu-Jamal, a prominent political prisoner, have embarked on a 103-mile march to demand urgent medical care and his release from prison. The march, which spans 12 days, concludes in Frackville, Pennsylvania, where Abu-Jamal is incarcerated at SCI Mahanoy. This event coincides with the anniversary of his arrest on December 9, 1981, for the murder of Philadelphia police officer Daniel Faulkner, a charge he has consistently denied.
Abu-Jamal, now 71 years old, is known globally as one of the most recognized political prisoners. Before his incarceration, he was an award-winning journalist and co-founder of the Philadelphia chapter of the Black Panther Party. Since his imprisonment, he has authored numerous books and continues to write commentaries. Supporters argue that he was denied a fair trial, with evidence emerging in 2019 that highlights judicial bias and misconduct by police and prosecutors.
Advocates are particularly concerned about Abu-Jamal’s health, citing inadequate medical care that jeopardizes his vision. Activist Larry Hamm stated, “We’re marching today to demand freedom for Mumia and all political prisoners,” emphasizing the systemic issues surrounding healthcare in prisons. Noelle Hanrahan, a member of Abu-Jamal’s legal team, called for immediate access to specialist treatment, stating, “Mumia needs specialist care… and that he is given the treatment that he deserves.”
The march serves as a platform to highlight the broader issues of healthcare access for aging prisoners. Participants express a sense of urgency, particularly following the recent passing of fellow activist Imam Jamil Abdullah al-Amin, reinforcing their commitment to advocate for the rights of political prisoners.
Historical Context and Current Health Concerns
Abu-Jamal’s legal battles have drawn significant attention over the years. Following a federal court ruling in 2011, which overturned his death sentence due to improper jury instructions, he was moved to the general prison population. In 2012, prosecutors agreed to a life sentence rather than undertake a new sentencing hearing. His health has deteriorated, particularly concerning his eyesight. After undergoing cataract surgery, he still requires further treatment for conditions that threaten his vision.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have documented concerns regarding his trial and ongoing treatment. Evidence of prosecutorial misconduct includes improper witness handling and the withholding of crucial evidence, such as witness statements requesting payment for their testimonies.
Hamm noted the particular challenges faced by aging inmates, stating, “Many of them are not getting the medical care they need.” The movement around Abu-Jamal emphasizes not only his plight but also the systemic neglect faced by prisoners, particularly the elderly.
Call to Action and Future Steps
As the march concludes, participants plan to hold a press conference to reiterate their demands for Abu-Jamal’s medical care and freedom. The need for comprehensive healthcare for prisoners, especially those with serious medical conditions, remains a focal point of their advocacy efforts. “We have to get Mumia all the healthcare he needs,” said Zayid Muhammad, another activist involved in the march.
The situation surrounding Abu-Jamal underscores the broader conversations about the treatment of prisoners in the United States, particularly regarding healthcare access. Advocates are calling for systemic reforms to ensure that all prisoners receive necessary medical attention, reflecting a growing movement for justice and humane treatment within the prison system.
As the march concludes today, the hope is that the spotlight on Abu-Jamal’s case will lead to a renewed focus on the rights and health of prisoners, sparking necessary changes that resonate far beyond the walls of SCI Mahanoy.
