Statement to the May 12, 2001 Demonstrations Dear Sisters, Brothers, Friends and Enemies, We are at a crossroad, one dictated by time, by history, by circumstance and even by chance. We are here because it is the right place and the right time to be. I thank all of you for coming to this encampment in the hopes of joining you at our next such encounter. Many of you have said that you don't believe in the system, yet, in your hearts you refuse to let it go. Lawyers are not agents of comfort to be exchanged like throw pillows. They are agents of freedom or they are aiders and abettors of repression. I have received some criticism for recent changes in my legal team. I don't fear criticism, but I must say I don't agree with this one. You have seen lawyers violate their own rules with total abandon with the blessing of the courts. How can you say you don't believe in the system and then believe lawyers who betrayed their so called client's interests? I thank you all for joining in this ongoing battle for freedom and justice. And, if you by chance choose not to join me, I have one simple request: don't get in my way. To quote John Africa: "Freedom is urgent. Direction is necessary and freedom cannot be taken by any goddamn judge's opinion." I Thank You Ona Move Long Live John Africa