On September 1st and 2nd, dozens of young Sudanese men and boys, as well as people of other nationalities, are set to stand trial in smuggling cases in Chania, Crete.
Sixteen Sudanese individuals, some as young as 16, have contacted us alone so far, all of whom have their trial on one of these days.
They are:
Garan David, 16
Suleiman, 18
Mohamad Babakar, 19
Mohamad Mubarak, 17
Dawud, 19
Hani Zakharia, 18
Bada Ruman, 19
Ageen, 36
Osain, 25
Altonmarjan, 25
…and many others…
We can only guess how many more people will be on trial these days, handcuffed in the courtroom, row by row, treated like criminals — simply for driving the boat or taking on another task on board while crossing the sea.
There will also be people of other nationalities than Sudanese and of different ages, each with their own story. Usually, these trials take place far from the public eye, dozens of individuals sentenced to long prison terms in fast trials that often violate their rights, with no public attention. This invisibility is part of the system.
But this time, we know — and we have to act! We must create visibility and show solidarity!
If you’re on Crete — come to the trial, stand with the boys, and show the court that we are watching!
If you’re anywhere else — share this post, spread the word, and make noise for the boys and against this mass incarceration of people on the move!