In the 1970’s and 80’s, Philadelphia cops attacked the band of anarcho-primitivists called MOVE more than once. MOVE’s compost attracted rats, it ran its PA system at all hours and the state accused it of child abuse. These are all serious matters. They deserve the attention of legitimate security forces and arbitration services. But they do not merit wanton violence, destruction of property, reckless endangerment of minors, kidnapping and murder.
The state has something called a justice system. In reality, it’s just an unaccountable, irresponsible gang of thugs. They exact vengeance against whoever dares cross them. It’s a holdover from medieval times, when the king tortured people and threw them into dungeons to rot away. Our modern society requires not retribution but restitution. I’ve always wondered why fines were paid to the judge instead of the victim. Now I know. The system is corrupt. Restorative justice makes victims whole. Offenders make restitution to those they have harmed. It’s a great idea. It’s long overdue.
Kudos to Liberty on Tour for producing this video. Their great editing skills made my performance bearable. Here’s some more information on restorative justice and MOVE.
One reply on “Restorative Justice is Better than Vengeance”
George, thanks for helping us research and cover this story. You’re the man!