Chelsea Manning, the whistle blower responsible for providing classified material to WikiLeaks–including the captured video of U.S drone strikespurposely targeting Reuters journalist Saeed Chmagh, Namir Nool-Eldeen and several other civilian targets–has served 6 years of her 35 year prison sentence in military jail. this is more than any whistle blower in american history has ever served. she faced solitary confinement for one full year prior to her trial and has been returned to solitary confinement after attempting suicide. As a trans woman, Manning faced further persecution when seeking proper healthcare and treatment and was forced to protest in hunger strike in order to seek transition surgery.
Chelsea Manning courageously declined a plea deal during her trial, stood by her actions, and accepted the full sentence when it was announced to her. Manning is a hero who undertook an immense personal cost to bring crimes committed by American military to public attention. During a time of uncertainty, speculation and overlooked concerns, Manning substantiated the claims of Iraqi and Afghan civilians with irrefutable proof.
She is a hero who deserves a full and unconditional pardon from Barack Obama, but is only asking for release with time served for her 35 year prison sentence.
You can read the formal commutation application sent to Barack Obama here
“I need help. I needed help earlier this year. I was driven to suicide by the lack of care for my gender dysphoria that I have been desperate for. I didn’t get any. I still haven’t gotten any,” Manning said in a statement released by a spokeswoman.
“I am no longer asking. Now, I am demanding. As of 12:01 am Central Daylight Time on September 9, 2016, and until I am given minimum standards of dignity, respect, and humanity, I shall—refuse to voluntarily cut or shorten my hair in any way; consume any food or drink voluntarily, except for water and currently prescribed medications; and comply with all rules, regulations, laws, and orders that are not related to the two things I have mentioned,” Manning said.
According to Manning’s representatives, doctors have recommended that as part of her treatment for gender dysphoria the solider, who began hormone therapy in 2015, be allowed to follow “female hair grooming standards.” The government has refused.
Manning said in her statement that she was prepared mentally and emotionally to endure an indefinite hunger strike, even if it proved fatal.
“I expect that this ordeal will last for a long time. Quite possibly until my permanent incapacitation or death. I am ready for this,” she said.
