Robert 'Seth' Hayes is one of the longest-held political prisoners in the USA.
A former member of the Black Panther Party and the BLA, in 1973, following a shootout with police, Seth was arrested and convicted of the murder of a New York City police officer, and sentenced to 25 years to life in prison. Seth has always maintained his innocence. Jailed for over 30 years, Seth has long since served the time he was sentenced to and while in prison he has worked as a librarian, pre release advisor, and AIDS councilor. He has remained drug and alcohol free throughout his entire period of incarceration and has maintained a charge free record in prison. Seth first came up for parole in 1998, but prison officials have refused to release him, and are effectively punishing him for having been a member of the Black Panther Party, and of having remained true to his ideals after 30 years behind bars.
As many of you know, this is an increasingly serious threat to those imprisoned during the 1960s, 70s and 80s. As these revolutionaries from the "sixties" cycle of struggle reach the end of their sentences, many (especially but not only in New York State) are being denied parole despite having had no disciplinary infractions while in prison for the past decades, but simply because of their continued commitment to radical politics.
Seth has recently retained the services of Attorney Cheryl Kates to address his parole appeal. It appears that her services will cost around $2,500.00 outside of unforeseen expenses; as a result we are launching this appeal to all supporters to send funds so that the operation of appeal can begin. Anything you can offer, in whatever amount will be greatly appreciated.
Please send donations care of Nate Buckley
438 Massachusetts ave. buffalo, NY 14213.
To learn more about Seth, visit http://www.sethhayes.org/
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