We demand the Minnesota Department of Corrections, specifically Commissioner Paul Schnell, release Philip Vance from solitary confinement immediately. Philip Vance is a caring father, mentor, educator and artist loved by many. He has been imprisoned since 2004 on a life sentence despite ample evidence supporting his innocence.
On Sunday, September 3rd, Philip and 130 other men protested against inhumane and degrading conditions at Stillwater prison amid continuous lockdowns and severe heat waves. The men housed in B-East work industry jobs and had labored all week. Ordered to lock down in sweltering cells, yet again, without showers, clean water, ice, recreational time, or access to their families, the courageous men in Philip’s unit refused. Instead of returning to their cells, they stayed in the common areas, some playing cards and others socializing.
Despite the peaceful nature of the protest, prison officials chose severe repression for at least four men and potentially more, cruelly punishing them with 90-180 days in solitary confinement. We do not know all of their names. Philip Vance was singled out for his leadership and truth telling, in part because he publicly exposed the lies within the DOC’s riot narrative and because he clearly articulated the horrific conditions that sparked the protest. Philip was given 180 days and is now locked in a cell for 23 hours a day with no access to yard time and limited access to communication. This six month punishment came just as a public push to spread awareness about Philip’s case garnered increased support and media attention. See www.freephilipvance.com to learn more about his wrongful conviction.
Why is this important?
The use of solitary confinement is an integral component of the US prison system, the threat of its use dampening prison organizing. Those engaged in collective resistance are often targeted for harsh discipline. Solitary confinement causes irreparable psychological harm and constitutes torture when used for more than 15 days as defined by the United Nations. It has a devastating toll on people’s mental health, heightening the risk of self harm and suicide, and can lead to severe trauma. While Philip is a person of hope, he is suffering the effects of extreme isolation. He has lost weight and his mental and physical health are deteriorating.
We believe solitary confinement should be abolished. Under MN Statute 641.09, the DOC is violating even their own rules by giving extended solitary confinement to Philip Vance and several others. Join us in demanding all men targeted for the September 3rd action be immediately released from solitary, as Philip courageously continues his push for justice. Their loved ones and community need this to happen quickly. Please sign and share widely!
If you’d like to send a letter of support to Philip, please use the following address:
Phillip Vance OID# 215517
MCF- Stillwater
970 Pickett St
Bayport, MN 55003
**Petition organized in solidarity with Jason Sole, Criminal Justice Professor at Hamline University and Founder of the Institute of Aspiring Abolitionists**
