Letter To The Anniston Star

From: Benjamin Greenberg
To: speakout@annistonstar.com
Date: Thu, 31 Mar 2005 17:48:54 -0500
Subject: Jimmie Lee Jackson Investigation

To the Editor:

I applaud John Fleming's article, "The Death of Jimmy Lee Jackson," which has brought renewed attention to Mr. Jackson's murder. And I raise my voice to join yours, and the voices of the Alabama Legislative Black Caucus, in calling for a full investigation of the murder.

While the prospect of an investigation is still new, I want to urge the press and those who may pursue the investigation to think broadly about responsibility for the murder. James Bonard Fowler may well have pulled the trigger, and his prosecution should be pursued vigorously. However, according to Albert Turner, who was in Marion on the night in question and was for many years the leader of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in Alabama, Jimmie Lee Jackson was badly beaten by a slew of police officers after he was shot. Mr. Jackson died in Selma because he was refused treatment at Marion Hospital, after waiting there for some time. You can find the transcript of an interview with Mr. Turner on these matters in PDF format at this location:
http://library.wustl.edu/units/spec/filmandmedia/pdfs/TURNER.pdf

There may, in fact, be numerous culprits who should be prosecuted in the name of justice. The press has a unique opportunity to shape public discussion of Jimmie Lee Jackson's death. The quality of public discussion may have a direct impact on the actions of Alabama's Attorney General and the Alabama Bureau of Investigation. I urge you to continue your fine journalism on this matter by broadening your coverage with interviews with witnesses, community members, and activists who may help in consideration of all who may be implicated in Jimmie Lee Jackson's murder.

Sincerely,

Benjamin Greenberg
Boston, MA