an open letter to Chelsea Manning

i struggled with writing a letter to Chelsea Manning for some time because, while i wanted very much to extend my support to her, i knew that whatever i sent would have to make its way through prison authorities whose dispositions would likely as not be diametrically opposed to mine. so i am posting what i finally sent, in order that there be a record of it, somewhere, even if only in the dubious digital domain.

Dear Chelsea,

as i try and imagine what you were feeling as you watched that video and came to the place where you decided that something had to be done, i conceive a kinship with you that is almost like a shared, spiritual identity. i feel that you acted for all of us who believe in democracy, and honesty, and decency toward our fellow human beings. i want you to know that in my eyes you are a hero, a shining example of courage, integrity, and sacrifice.

indeed, during your trial and the time leading up to it, i used a photograph of you as my profile picture on facebook, so that whereever i (metaphorically) went and whatever i said, i was always saying "i am Bradley Manning". i hope you won't object to this subterfuge, but i would willingly have changed places with you if it would have saved even one innocent child's life or helped the United States of America evolve into a true democracy, of, by, and for the people, like its constitution says. when i heard the apology you presented to the court i was heartsick, for in my way of thinking you have done nothing warranting regret, and although you have endured terrible and cruel treatment and degradation, i don't want your spirit to ever be broken.

i know that you have gone through many changes, Chelsea, and will go through many more, but i hope that in reaching out i have made it possible for you to take a small, indefinable piece of my heart with you, that part of me that would stand with you, and deeply appreciates what you have done for all of us. for the Tunisians, Bahrainis, and countless others whose desire for freedom finally ignited into the Arab Spring, sparked by the information you provided. for the awakening Americans who, because of your example, have found the courage to not contribute to war crimes carried out in the name of mindless media-induced patriotism. for the journalists who comprehend the sacred duty entrusted to them, so vital to the functioning of a healthy democratic state, and the whistleblowers, those torchbearers of an informed citizenry, who have and doubtless will follow in your footsteps. but most of all, for the children who may yet survive into adulthood because you cared about their future, and recognised in each one of them a sacred, living being with an inherent and inviolable right to exist. thank you, Chelsea.