Hamedah Hasan writes, "This experience has taught me that not one choice, action, or lack thereof is without consequence. This includes making laws without a sense of redemption -- that diminish the worth of human lives and attack the very foundation of the family unit."

She would know. In 1991, she was sent to prison, for what would be a 27-year jail sentence, for a first-time nonviolent drug-related offense. Escaping an abusive relationship, she went to live with cousins who were involved in the drug trade, and when they were all arrested she had no information to offer the cops, being only peripherally involved in her cousins' work. Because of her lack of involvement, and because they all had information with which to barter for lighter sentences, Hassan received far and away the longest sentence -- something like double that of those really involved.

Filmmaker and Unitarian Universalist minister Melissa Mummert created an award-winning short documentary with Hassan about her case. I was skeptical when I first heard about the film. A white lady in grad school telling a Black lady's story ... but in her commentary Ms. Hasan spoke a bit of their process together, and the obvious mutual respect between the two, so I am really interested in seeing it.

If you can, take a few minutes and watch the preview on the film's website: www.perversionofjustice.com. After you do, think about ordering the film and organizing a local screening. . People like to get together and watch movies anyway, so why not try it? Might even become a local tradition.

Hamedah is -- unbelievably -- still locked up. Holidays may be hard times for all kinds of folks, but can be especially difficult for those behind bars. You can write to Ms. Hassan at:

Hamedah Hasan
#13847-047
FCP Victorville
PO Box #5100
Adelanto, CA 92301