“Political, moral, and civil libertarian defendants have always used Political Trials to address the public outside the courtroom. This is in itself a good thing, it is part of the democratic process.”
Originally published March 19, 1970
“So long as Nixon is allowed to campaign against Abbie Hoffman, so long will the Great Silent Majority continue to swell into terrifyingly Hitlerian hordes”
Originally published March 12, 1970
“Chicago was a crucible into which eight movement 'leaders' were tossed. What emerged, says Dellinger, was not cleavage but a coming together, an incredible trust and love which transcended the real differences which distinguish Abbie Hoffman from Rennie Davis from Bill Kunstler”
Originally published March 12, 1970
“We want government by the people, for the people, and of the people," said Fred Hampton. “Fuck this shit of government by the pigs for the pigs, and of the pigs. This town's hungry, and we need a barbecue.”
Originally published October 16, 1969
“Since the trial opened last Wednesday, lawyers and observers have been stunned by Judge Hoffman, by his overt hostility to the defendants, by his rejection of routine defense motions, and by his denial of fundamental constitutional rights.”
Originally published October 2, 1969
“Movement leaders no longer face minor penalties, misdemeanor charges, and a few worthy months in jail. Seale, said Kunstler, faces the very real likelihood of execution. 'The fun has gone out of our practice. We now face a deadening responsibility.' ”
Originally published September 4, 1969
“The 1968 Civil Disorders Bill had been pushed through Congress by Southern reactionaries who were convinced that there was a combined black power-communist conspiracy to burn down the American cities. Now it had actually been applied”
Originally published March 27, 1969
“To some on the left, the Chicago indictments represent the most brazen attempt since McCarthy to crush active dissent, and anything less than acquittal will signal the start of a massive governmental drive.”
Originally published April 17, 1969