robin long released from prison today!

Today, at long last, war resister Robin Long becomes a free man. Or perhaps I should say, Robin will be released from military prison. Because in a very real sense, Robin has been a free man all along, because he followed his conscience.

During the year he has been in prison (he is being released slightly early for "good behaviour"), Robin has received a lot of support from peace activists in San Diego, and from Veterans for Peace and Vietnam Veterans against the War. It's remarkable and so wonderful how the peace community embraced Robin, making sure he had visitors and morale support, and providing financial support both to Robin and his former partner (Robin's child's mother).

Nevertheless, Robin leaves prison with a long road ahead of him, and with few resources. In other words, he's flat broke.

Robin has been punished harshly for his opposition to the US invasion and occupation of Iraq. His principles have been tested in a way few of us will ever experience. It's my privilege as a peace activist to help him.

If you would like to make a contribution to Robin Long, to help him get started in the next phase of his life, you can send a cheque to:

VVAW
PO Box 2065, Station A,
Champaign, IL 61825-2065
Write "War Resister Fund / Robin Long" in the memo line.

If you do send a cheque (or check if you're USian), please email vvawinc@vvaw.org and let them know money is on the way. If you'd like to contribute but can't do it yet, email to say you are pledging a donation and will send it at whatever time.