This update was originally published on December 19 by the Indianapolis Liberation Center.
Before the close of business day on December 19, and after weeks of efforts by Shaka’s family, the Campaign, and a host of supporters, we can confirm that Shaka has ended his hunger strike. His action, which ended the same day we received the news, was in protest of the VADOC withholding his property for months.
Shaka, however, was also on a hunger strike because they haven’t let him speak to his wife – his emergency contact – for weeks and have not provided any updates about his well-being. We are waiting for this demand to be met and will confirm as soon as it is.
However, the fight is far from over.
Recently, the National Lawyers Guild sent a letter urging the Virginia DOC to investigate, correct, and address various violations of Shaka’s constitutional rights in what is only the latest episode of a years-long targeted campaign of harassment and persecution.
As long as Shaka is at River North Correctional Facility, his life is in danger. Shaka must not be housed at RIver North, Red Onion, or Wallens Ridge.