Ujamaa. Ujamaa. This is Dontie S. Mitchell, better known as Mfalme Sikivu, were reporting to you from Great Meadow Correctional Facility in Comstock, New York. Back in November, a big story broke out on the local news about Luna, the dog. Apparently, Luna bit a neighbor’s dog and then bit the neighbor. This happened in Troy, New York, and the law there have a zero policy against aggressive dogs. So, the city removed Luna and ordered that she be euthanized. The local humane society and it’s lawyers opposed the killing of Luna, because, as it turns out, Luna was really a sweet dog. They launched a media campaign that led to State Senator, Jim Tedisco, to call upon Governor Cuomo to pardon Luna, which Governor Cuomo’s office considered reviewing, but things worked out for Luna in the courts instead, and she got her second chance.
Now, I ain’t Luna the dog, but I am human, and have been incarcerated longer than I’ve been free, and I didn’t bite anyone. I’m happy Luna was given a second chance. I love animals, but still — I’m a human being. Why don’t I deserve a second chance? I was a kid when I committed my crimes, but I didn’t hurt, harm or injure anyone, and I’ve already served 22 years in prison. I don’t see local media or any state senators making a big deal about that. Although New York state, with the passage of the Raise the Age bill, acknowledges 16 and 17 year old offenders shouldn’t be prosecuted to the same extent as adults, it’s hypocritical Luna the dog can get a second chance, but I can’t. Tune in again next time. Follow me on Facebook at Free Dontie Mitchell. Share your questions and comments. Also, if you’re interested in helping me, please write me. Thank you for listening.
These commentaries are recorded by Noel Hanrahan of prison radio.
