NLG Detroit & Michigan Condemns
Detention & Citation of Protesters & Legal Observers
March 3, 2024 :
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DETROIT — On the afternoon of March 2, 2024, two dedicated volunteers and a staff member from the National Lawyers Guild (NLG) Detroit & Michigan Chapter were unjustly detained and issued citations by officers of the Detroit Police Department while diligently performing their duties as Legal Observers (LOs) Concurrently, several protesters also experienced unwarranted detention and citation. These citations were given following a demonstration that was part of a Global Day of Action demanding an end to the genocide in Palestine.
Said Lisa Carlson, the LO Coordinator for the chapter, who was one of the people detained:
“LOs were clearly targeted for citations at this action, which feels very much intended to have a chilling effect on our program and the movement for Palestine at large. Throughout the march, there was heavy police surveillance, yet no dispersal orders were issued. Police picked people off and gave blocking traffic citations when people were out of the street and trying to safely leave.”
The NLG, Detroit & Michigan chapter, vehemently condemns the egregious targeting of peaceful demonstrators and the interference with and intimidation of our Legal Observers. We strongly denounce the use of the law as a tool against peaceful protesters and those tasked with safeguarding their rights. We stand in solidarity with all of those cited today, and demand that all charges against both our volunteers and staff and protesters attending the march be dropped.
Legal Observers, identified by their distinctive neon green hats prominently displaying "National Lawyers Guild" and "Legal Observer," are well-known to the Detroit Police Department. Their primary role is to monitor police conduct during protests and offer a connection to legal assistance for any arrested protesters. These neutral observers, unaffiliated with the event organizers, attend hundreds of actions across the state each year without incident.
The right to peacefully protest the government, as well as to observe and document law enforcement activities, is well-established and fundamental for all individuals in this country. The actions of the Detroit Police Department in this instance serve not only to provoke peaceful protesters and discourage the exercise of free speech, but to intimidate our staff and volunteers who are protecting protester’s rights. We adamantly demand the immediate dismissal of these baseless charges against all involved.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Sara Habbo, President
National Lawyers Guild, Detroit & Michigan Chapter
habbo.sara@gmail.com
About NLG, Detroit & Michigan Chapter:
The National Lawyers Guild, Detroit & Michigan Chapter, serves as the legal arm of social justice movements. Founded in 1937 as the first integrated bar association in the United States, NLG chapters nationwide fight against fascism, imperialism, and oppression by advocating for the legal rights of those most marginalized in our society and around the world.