Corporate Power and the Case of Rev. Edward Pinkney

A Miscarriage of Justice Many Have Never Observed in any Courtroom

Latest

Rev. Edward Pinkney is in prison for fighting Whirlpool Corporation’s
takeover of Benton Harbor, MI. PHOTO/FACEBOOK

Editor’s Note: In a miscarriage of justice the likes of which many of us have never observed in any courtroom, Rev. Edward Pinkney’s probation violation hearing ended with the judge sentencing him to a minimum of 36 months to 120 months. Attorney Elliott Hall said an appeal will be filed immediately. A more detailed report will follow on our next step in the ongoing battle for democ-racy and against corporate power in Benton Harbor. Funds are urgently needed. Please send to:  BANCO, 1940 Union St., Benton Harbor, MI 49022 — Pinkey Defense Committee

The arrest of Reverend Pinkney for utilizing his right to free speech and the indirect warning to the Peoples Tribune for publishing those thoughts needs to be seen for what they are. They are a step from the legal into the political arena to strip the people of their right to freedom of expression. It is a small part of the motion toward dictatorship in this country.

Rev. Pinkney became known as the leader of the community based on his almost daily presence at the Berrien County Courthouse. He exposed the racism of the criminal justice system and the willful inadequacy of the defense provided to the poor (mostly) Black defendants.

During this period, the struggle by Whirlpool and the real estate interests to develop Benton Harbor into a playground for the rich was raging. The question continued to be in whose interests was the redevelopment proceeding? In 2005, Pinkney led a recall of the City of Benton Harbor’s most powerful Co-missioner that favored Whirlpool’s effort. An all-white jury convicted Pinkney of five counts of improprieties in connection with this ele-tion.

What this case represents for America

The attack on democracy and the conviction of Rev. Pinkney for standing up for the poor shows that the corporate power structure is determined to crush anyone who stands in their way. It symbolizes an entire process under way in America. The once stable working-class community of Benton Harbor has been devastated by automation and globalization. The open rule of corporate power is arising to oppose their struggle. The governing bodies that once controlled by buying up the people’s leaders now turn to intimidation and brute force.

This case is not about Rev. Pinkney. It is about how a corporate giant like Whirlpool takes over a whole town. It is a harbinger of the future of America if people do not move to get power over the corporations before they take over society.

Our first battle in this war is the defense of our leaders. A movement that does not defend its leaders cannot grow. Defend Rev. Pinkney. Donate money for the appeal. Take this newspaper out and help awaken America.  Make a stand for democracy in Benton Harbor.

PT Logo collage
+ Articles by this author

Free to republish but please credit the People's Tribune. Visit us at www.peoplestribune.org, email peoplestribune@gmail.com, or call 773-486-3551.

The People’s Tribune brings you articles written by individuals or organizations, along with our own reporting. Bylined articles reflect the views of the authors. Unsigned articles reflect the views of the editorial board. Please credit the source when sharing: ©2024 peoplestribune.org. Please donate to help us keep bringing you voices of the movement. Click here. We’re all volunteer, no paid staff.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

Featured

‘We Need Urgent Global Climate Action’

Eighty-nine percent of people worldwide want their governments to do more to address the global climate crisis. Conference on tipping points says situation is urgent. Meanwhile U.S. govt does more to boost fossil fuel forms of energy.

May Day 2025: United We Will Win

International Worker’s Day is celebrated on May 1st around the world. Today, the entire U.S. working class, of which immigrants comprise an integral part, is under attack. The defense of immigrants is vital to the defense of the entire working class.

White School Officer Pepper-sprayed and Kneed Black Beaumont, TX Student, Complaint says. Will Feds Act?

A 6-second video, recorded by a teacher and reviewed by the Texas Observer, shows an officer grabbing a student’s hair, kneeing her in the face, and knocking the 100-pound girl on her back.

Pope Francis Dies After Easter Plea to End War in Gaza

"In his final public message, Pope Francis decried the “terrible conflict” in Gaza.

Bring Union Brother Kilmar Home: His Deportation Is an Attack on All of Us

The deportation of union brother Kilmar Abrego Garcia is a gut punch to the labor movement, a slap in the face to every worker who dares to organize.

More from the People's Tribune