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Via Workers World News Service
Reprinted from the Sept. 14, 2000
issue of Workers World newspaper
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Philly jailed child as adult

By Joe Piette

Philadelphia

"Justice ain't right, for you and me and Miriam White!"

This and other chants, along with dozens of dolls, stuffed toys and protest signs, made up a spirited demonstration outside Philadelphia District Attorney Lynn Abraham's office Aug. 25. Protesters were demanding the removal of Miriam White, a 13-year-old African American girl, from the Philadelphia Adult Detention Center.

When Miriam was 11, Abraham charged her with first-degree murder and had her tried as an adult for allegedly killing a passer-by. Miriam has a tragic history filled with physical, emotional and mental abuse. She has been in and out of mental facilities and foster homes for most of her life.

Activists were protesting on the second birthday in a row Miriam has spent in an adult jail. She is held on 22-hour lockdown each day, in a facility with no resources for children.

Daughters of Fine Lineage and the Brown Collective organized the protest. They are demanding that Miriam be moved to a facility where children's services are available. Supporters are encouraged to attend a hearing on Miriam's case Sept. 15 at 9 a.m. at the Criminal Justice Center, 13th and Filbert streets, in room 1106.
For more information, call (215) 424-2579
or (215) 241-7136.

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