Farewell thoughts to my friend Lynne Stewart from Jaan Laaman, political prisoner.
International Women’s Day, March 8th, 2017. With a sunny sky outside and, a quote, unquote, day without women’s strikes and other very positive and powerful events taking place all across the United States and around the world, I am sitting quietly and sadly reflecting on the life of my friend Lynne who died last night. There are so much that can and probably will be said about this dynamic and wonderful woman.
For decades, Lynne Stewart was a, if not the preeminent human rights, civil rights, people’s lawyer boldly fighting for justice, equality, and freedom in many of the most important and widely reported cases in the United States. Lynne truly was fearless and could not be intimidated by prosecutors, judges, or FBI and other gun-toting goons. She believed in and fought for constitutional rights and equal justice.
She always fought for her clients. Lynne was not only brave and determined, but she was a brilliant attorney. She also was very hard working, doing the necessary research and innovative paperwork that often forced the courts to accept her arguments. Lynne touched so many people and lives in large and dynamic ways and personal, caring, and nurturing ways. As a lawyer, Lynne was a very significant part of the legal team for all of us Ohio Seven people in our many trials.
Beyond just her work and skill as an attorney, Lynne was also there for our children and families. As a small boy, my son Ricky always stayed at Lynne’s home when he came to visit me and his mother while we were being held in MCC New York. Lynne was our family friend as well as a sister and a comrade in the struggle.
So many people will miss you and your guidance and wisdom, your concern and care. The love you had for the people in the freedom struggle is only matched by the love so many people, freedom fighters included, have and will continue to have for you.
Rest easy, my sister.
These commentaries are recorded by Noelle Hanrahan of Prison Radio.
