Remembering the mighty hunger strikes: 10th anniversary salutations!

Mutawally-Joka-Kambon-Cooperwood, Remembering the mighty hunger strikes: 10th anniversary salutations!, Abolition Now!
Mutawally Joka Kambon is serving a sentence of life plus 19 years. One of our unsung Elder heroes of the historic California Hunger Strikes, survivor of 22 years of solitary confinement torture in Pelican Bay, he continues to maintain a “righteous aptitude for spiritual and intellectual pursuits.” We want him home so he can bring healing to his family and the community.

by Mutawally Joka Kambon Cooperwood

Greetings and salutations to all,

I am a prisoner of the California Department of Corrections and rehabilitation (CDCr). I have been incarcerated for a period of 30 years – the first 22 years held inside solitary confinement (holes) at both Corcoran and Pelican Bay State Prison.

Today, July 1, 2021, marks the 10th anniversary of our collective and historical California Prisoner Hunger Strike, which we launched in response to having been put in solitary confinement units for decades, based on allegations of gang affiliation or political organizing.

California-Prisoners-on-Hunger-Strike-July-1-graphic, Remembering the mighty hunger strikes: 10th anniversary salutations!, Abolition Now!

On the onset of our 10th anniversary, allow me a moment to acknowledge the memories and courage of our esteemed fallen comrades ­–

It is through their exemplary shining examples that we forge on into the intrepid spirit of “Can’t stop, won’t stop!” Freedom bound.

I would like to also extend my undying love to all the progressive folks inside and outside who contributed in various degrees and of course the many groups and organizations without whose support, knowledge, information and direction – if it weren’t for these folks, nothing would have been possible.

As we advance beyond the threshold of the 10th anniversary, know that the breakthrough in our struggle for unity between the race groups continues to move forward here in New Folsom! Respecting each other’s voices, feelings and thoughts; maintaining the Blueprint of the Agreement to End Hostilities.

In closing, we shall recognize our monumental victories and goal of ending solitary confinement in California and across the country! Assuring our collective imperative is freedom for all!

We can’t stop! We won’t stop!

Send our brother some love and light: Mutawally Joka Kambon Cooperwood, C-46411, CSP Sacramento, P.O. Box 29006, Represa, CA 95671-0066.