MALDEF

SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT SHENANDOAH, PENNSYLVANIA

25,000 people have signed the Luis Ramirez Hate Crime Petition in the last 72 hours. From every state and territory in the country someone just like you has spoken out against the discrimination, racism, and violence that claimed the life of 25 year old, Luis Ramirez and for this we thank you.

In addition to our efforts to ensure justice for Luis Ramirez’ family, we have also been working closely with the Shenandoah Latino community. They are grateful for the outpouring of support from people of all backgrounds throughout the country, especially in this time in which they feel especially vulnerable and are seeking equality and peace in Shenandoah. We ask that you continue to stand in solidarity with those suffering from this tragedy in the spirit of peace and justice.

In addition to signing and forwarding the Luis Ramirez petition, you can support the Ramirez family and local community by raising consciousness in your own community with these messages of justice, peace, and equality.

Your Information

Your Friends

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Your Message

Hi (Your Friend's Name),

I'm writing to you to ask for your help on behalf of the family of Luis Ramirez. On July 14, 2008, Ramirez lost his life after he was knocked unconscious and severely beaten by a group of Shenandoah teenagers who yelled racial epithets throughout the fatal beating. Charging documents and eyewitness accounts indicate that Ramirez was punched and kicked in the body and head causing him to foam at the mouth, to sustain two skull fractures, and ultimately, to die.

You can read about it here.

On Friday, May 1, 2009, a jury found two of the defendants not guilty, despite the mounting evidence of a hate-driven attack, the jury acquitted the defendants of third-degree murder and ethnic intimidation and only convicted them of simple assault.

The jury's conclusion is an outrage. We need you, and so does Luis Ramirez’s family. Will you join me in making sure the DOJ does its job and brings justice to Shenandoah, Pennsylvania?

I really hope you’ll offer your support in the fight for justice for Luis Ramirez and his family.

(Your Name)

Copyright 2009 MALDEF — Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund