#mce_temp_url#We were able to see Marie on Sunday, March 16 for the first time since her arrest. We use the word ‘see’ loosely as her two 20 minute visits per week at Butler County Jail are conducted via video conferencing. This means that three of us packed into a small metal cubicle around a 12″ monitor with a small camera and telephone. Only the top portion of Marie’s face was actually visible and only the person with the telephone is able to speak with her, further adding to the impersonality and segregation. This style of “visitation” is another tactic of the state to isolate, alienate, and degrade prisoners and their loved ones on the outside.
Marie is still not being given an adequate vegan diet. Up to this point, jail officials have been at least outwardly approachable about our concerns. Jail officials have been returning phone calls in regards to Marie’s need for a vegan diet seeking details. We want to reaffirm that Marie is subsisting almost entirely on oatmeal, an unhealthful situation that will only be exacerbated by the passing of time. Therefore, we are
repeating our request that people call the jail and politely express their concern for Marie’s health and their conviction that she should receive a vegan diet. Listed below are the relevant numbers at the Butler County Jail. Please note that we are now asking for calls to be made to the Medical Department of the jail.
Medical Department
513-785-1127
Warden’s Office
513-785-1015
Sergeant’s Office
513-785-1104
Administration
513-785-1000
On a more inspiring note, the General Defense Committee of the Industrial Workers of the World (IWW) has issued a $10 assessment stamp for members, the proceeds of which will go to Marie and the other indictees. Additionally, any individuals who choose to join the GDC in March, April, or May can choose to have their entire one-year membership fee ($25) donated to the support of Marie and the other indictees. We are encouraging individuals to join and specifically choose to have their membership fees donated to this support effort. You do not need to be a member of the IWW to join the GDC. For more information on the GDC and how to join, look here.
We want to encourage everyone to keep us updated on any events being planned in support of Marie so that we can help to get the word out. Marie sends her love to all who have contributed in any way to her wellbeing in these troubling times. To send funds in the form of a check or money order made out to “Books for Prisoners”. Please put in the notes section Marie and/or include a letter detailing that the enclosed funds are for Marie Masons defense.
It’s all About the Struggle,
Got Your Back
Friends of Marie Mason
P.O. Box 19065
Cincinnati, OH 45219
freemarie@riseup.net