Protest at Prison Draws Crowd of Supporters for Dr. Sami Al-Arian

WASHINGTON, DC - Mar. 24, 2007 (MASNET)

A resolute crowd of 100 people assembled in Butner, North Carolina to show support for Dr. Sami Arian despite the denial of his appeal that would have set him free in a matter of days. This continued cancellation of justice did not interrupt local support that has been preceded by national and international support for the former tenured University of South Florida computer science professor. Supporters came from as far away as Tampa to participate in this occasion. The morning event was covered by the Raleigh News and Observer, AP; Durham Herald Sun, the UNC Daily Tarheel and the NC State University Technician. Statements of appreciation were offered by Nahla Al-Arian, wife of the doctor.

Once billed as a major strike in the war on terrorism, the case against Dr. Sami Al-Arian seemed to crumble when jurors rejected federal charges that Dr. Al-Arian and three co-defendants operated a North American cell for the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. The government moved swiftly to combat the decision of the jury by compromising the plea agreement originally promised.

The case continues to galvanized supporters who recognize that Dr Al-Arian is a victim of an overzealous U.S. Justice Department and of anti-Muslim prejudice stemming from the Sept. 11 attacks.

Growing concern arose after Dr. Al-Arian began and continued a hunger strike of 60 days which was not modified until yesterday, prior to learning that his appeal had been denied. It is unknown whether Dr. Al-Arian will resume his fast for justice.

Khalilah Sabra, Director of the North Carolina chapter of the Muslim American Society (MAS) Freedom Foundation, reminded those in attendance at the gathering that on February 5th, 2003 Dr. Al-Arian wrote a statement which said," I am crucified today because of who I am: a stateless Palestinian, an Arab, a Muslim and an outspoken advocate for Palestinian rights, but more a persistent defender for civil and constitutional rights on the home front." She concluded to mention that she was saddened and disappointed that after so many years Dr. Al-Arian's situation remains the same.