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.

+ 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

Where Do We Go From Here: It Does Matter

Those of us who have a history of being on the front lines knew this moment was coming and we’re telling ourselves it is not the time to fatigue out! We know either way it lands, that it’s in our laps and we need all boots on the ground.

Pregnant Teen Died: Seeks Care in Three Texas Emergency Rooms

Nevaeh Crain cried in pain, too weak to walk, blood staining her thighs. Vomiting and feverish at her baby shower, the teen went to two different emergency rooms, returning home, worse than before. Pregnant women have become untouchables.

No, Immigration Is Not Making Housing Less Affordable

Despite politicians' claims to the contrary, immigration is not making housing unaffordable. In fact, immigration can be part of the solution.

Make Your Vote Count 

This 2024 election is gaining on us and the pressure to get to the ballot box is intense and...

Michigan’s Prescient Lesson: Vote While You Still Can!!! 

Michigan's non-elected Emergency Manager dictatorship made Flint's water crisis possible. Pay attention to the danger of losing our Democratic rights as we’ve known them in this election. Vote while you still can!

More from the People's Tribune