Building a Defense Campaign

Defense campaigns are when people come together to raise awareness and take action in solidarity with those being targeted by the criminal legal system.

Defense campaigns are also a form of mutual aid.

NOTE: It’ s important that these campaigns do not reinforce notions of a “deserving ” and “ undeserving ” subject. Ultimately, abolitionists believe imprisonment is not a viable solution for anyone, not just those who are perceived as innocent or did not commit a violent crime. 51

HOW TO START

1.

2. Make sure you have a good understanding of the case.

Is there someone with knowledge of the legal system willing to share their knowledge with you? Raise Awareness

Collaborate with people in your community to plan an event where you inform people about the case.

Are there racial justice groups in your area that are willing to collaborate with you? Are there organizations at your school that you can work with or are willing to share information?

Create infographics so you have a way to share a concise and accessible summary of the case. See an example on pages 45 and 46!

JUSTICE FOR JULISSA & JAMELIA INFOGRAPHICS

JUSTICE FOR JULISSA & JAMELIA INFOGRAPHICS

3. Take Direct Action Pack the court events - Accompany the person facing charges to their court dates -- influences lawyers, judges, and jury by showing support for the person Is there a representative who has the power to get the charges dropped? Once you ’ ve identified this person try to plan an action that will put pressure on them to meet your demand such as a sit in if there is a town hall event or letter writing campaign. Crowdfunding for the impacted people. Having to deal with the criminal legal system can take a toll emotionally, financially, physically, etc. If there is a need for the person(s) to be compensated you can crowdfund in your community/via social media

Click here to access the Campaign Toolkit created by Survived and Punished & Love and Protect or scan the QR code!