Post by thinkinkmesa on Aug 17, 2007 22:01:55 GMT -5
citybeat.com/2006-08-23/letters.shtml
Killing the Death Penalty
I just wanted to send an email to congratulate Margo Pierce on her cover story, "Making a Killing" (issue of July 12). In particular I have to say it's very refreshing to read about family members of those condemned to death in the U.S.
I know Brett Hartmann and his family personally, as I had the opportunity to travel to the U.S. from Australia in March this year to meet with them. I know it has become very important for Brett and his family to speak out with regard to his case, given they've been told by legal representatives to keep quiet. Given Brett's case as a whole, it's certainly well past the time to become vocal to what avenues become available. After all, it's a human life that is at stake.
Coming from a total abolitionist country, it's very difficult for me to comprehend that the U.S., which tends to be outspoken about the human rights abuses of other nations, still continues to practice such a barbaric act of executing its own citizens. Sadly, it seems this is all due to the intense political practices of the U.S., and highly organized groups (i.e., victims groups) are able to make or break a political career.
So the Brett Hartmanns of this world who become involved in the justice system battle to be heard after an injustice has been done. Having the information that I have been privy to regarding Brett's case, I believe that at the very least there's a reasonable doubt as to his guilt.
-- Debbie Gavin, Melbourne, Australia
Killing the Death Penalty
I just wanted to send an email to congratulate Margo Pierce on her cover story, "Making a Killing" (issue of July 12). In particular I have to say it's very refreshing to read about family members of those condemned to death in the U.S.
I know Brett Hartmann and his family personally, as I had the opportunity to travel to the U.S. from Australia in March this year to meet with them. I know it has become very important for Brett and his family to speak out with regard to his case, given they've been told by legal representatives to keep quiet. Given Brett's case as a whole, it's certainly well past the time to become vocal to what avenues become available. After all, it's a human life that is at stake.
Coming from a total abolitionist country, it's very difficult for me to comprehend that the U.S., which tends to be outspoken about the human rights abuses of other nations, still continues to practice such a barbaric act of executing its own citizens. Sadly, it seems this is all due to the intense political practices of the U.S., and highly organized groups (i.e., victims groups) are able to make or break a political career.
So the Brett Hartmanns of this world who become involved in the justice system battle to be heard after an injustice has been done. Having the information that I have been privy to regarding Brett's case, I believe that at the very least there's a reasonable doubt as to his guilt.
-- Debbie Gavin, Melbourne, Australia