QUEER PRISONER NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT

Hello all,

I am writing because a young queer prisoner in the Federal Prison system at La Tuna in New Mexico needs your support! Anthony LaRue (85582-008) has been fighting to take care of his teeth for many, many months now. He currently has only eleven (11) teeth with NO contact points, making chewing nearly impossible. Tony has lost a considerable amount of weight and can’t chew his food properly, leading to choking and gum bleeding. Often dental issues are not taken seriously, but because of the decay in his mouth and the inadequate care, the rest of his body is in danger of infection. Support is needed now. Tony has been taken out to see the dentist numerous times, but always 30 minutes before institutional recall, making the work he needs done impossible.

Mistreatment is common in U.S. prisons, but Tony believes he is specifically being targeted because of his sexual orientation. However, please do not make reference to his queerness during calls, as he is attempting to keep quiet so as to protect himself.

WHAT YOU CAN DO!
Please call the prison at 915.791.9000. Press 0 when asked if it is in regards to an “inmate”
Once you reach a dispatcher ask to speak with the Unit Team for Anthony LaRue (85582-008)
Inform the individual from the team, or the answering machine, that you are calling on behalf of Anthony LaRue and that you expect his dental needs to be taken care of immediately. Because the institution has not been providing appropriate medical care you believe he should be seen by an outside dentist in El Paso, as has been done for other prisoners. Remind them that this has been an issue for quite some time and that you expect resolution immediately. Please remember to be polite, but firm.

Please let me know if you made this phone call and what the outcome was. If you carry particular credentials, this would be a great time to use your privilege (I’m a lawyer, a clergyperson, a dentist, medical student, etc.)

In faithful struggle,

Jason