Update on the Poor People United five

Update on the Poor People United five

I just wanted to send this out to give you all an update on the situation regarding Friday night's action by Poor People United. First of all, all of the arrestees are fine and in good spirits. As you know, Poor People United called for a rally and potluck dinner at the Liberty Pole Friday night to raise awareness of the situation faced by homeless people in Rochester. After a few brief statements made at Liberty Pole by PPU members and supporters, about 50 of us marched up Franklin Court where the five arrestees had found an abandoned property with the door open. They entered the building. After the police found out who the owner was and got him to the site and convinced him to press charges, the five were arrested and spent the night in County Jail. They were released after appearing in court Saturday morning. Afterward they went to the home of Mike Lopez, who invited them to a breakfast of eggs, homefries, and bacon. They discussed their experience, strategy, and gave interviews with the D&C, and channel 8. Afterward they headed to the office to edit the footage that was taken by the Independent Media.
This was a very successful action. They definitely achieved their objective, while the media got off to a slow start Friday night, with only channel 10 showing up after some of the students went and knocked on their door, there was no shortage of media at the court house and what reports I've heard of the coverage were that it was very positive and in depth. The organization got the exposure it needed and the issue was put in the spotlight. Bill Smith, who has pushed for drastic cuts in social services, was forced to respond to issues raised by PPUs action.
We'll do our best to keep you all posted on developments in the case and the work being done. I'd like to thank you for all the support that has been shown.
Power to the People,
Jess