Civil Rights Protest at County Court – 14 June

A small number of activists staged a protest outside the County Court this morning demanding charges against the ‘Barwon 13’ be dropped…

Protesters with placards line up outside court

As reported elsewhere, for example on Melbourne Indymedia, 13 Melbourne accused of terror offences are being held on remand in Guantanamo-style conditions at Barwon Prison, in spite of the fact they have not yet been charged, let alone been found guilty of planning or carrying out any terrorist act. A small number of activists from Civil Rights Defence staged a protest this morning outside the County Court, to coincide with a committal hearing for the men. Michael Pearce from Liberty Victoria said a few words to the assembled media – unfortunately inaudible from where I was standing due to traffic noise. As if to underline the message of some of the placards, a police officer took the name of one of the activists – for taking photos of the lineup. Apparently it was OK if you worked for Murdoch or whatever, but otherwise …

Michael Pearce from Liberty Victorian fronts media

Michael Pearce from Liberty Victoria

Photos of protester's name being taken contrasted with row of media with cameras

You can’t take photos here, but …