Solidarity Gathering at Old Town Hall: Supporting Boualem Sansal's Liberation on 1st July
Get ready for a compelling evening of solidarity! On Tuesday, July 1, at 6 PM, gather at the Old Town Hall for a "Solidarity Evening" dedicated to the esteemed author, Boualem Sansal. This event, part of the "Leipzig Initiative," spearheaded by Dr. Thorsten Ahrend (Director of the Leipzig Literature House) and Prof. Emeritus Dr. Alfonso de Toro (University of Leipzig), is also backed by Mayor Burkhard Jung. Prominent figures from the realms of politics, diplomacy, culture, and science will be in attendance.
Known globally for his thought-provoking novels and having accumulated numerous prestigious awards, including the Peace Prize of the German Book Trade, Sansal has been unjustly imprisoned in Algeria since November 2024, serving a five-year sentence without any medical or legal help. Details about consular assistance from the French Embassy in Algiers or his lawyer's efforts remain scarce.
The aim of the event is to rally public opinion, pushing for Sansal's release. An online petition, garnering nearly 27,000 signatures from various parts of the world, testifies to strong support for him. You can add your voice and sign the petition by clicking here.
The Leipzig Literature House announcement about the event can be found here.
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In the face of Sansal's ongoing detention and upcoming appeal hearing, it's crucial to stay abreast of current developments. Keep tabs on human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International, PEN International, and Reporters Without Borders, known for spurring petitions and solidarity campaigns for unjustly detained writers and activists. You may also want to follow advocacy groups that champion freedom of expression in Algeria or French-Algerian cultural organizations that might organize a solidarity event or online petition.
Remember, solidarity won't just be in Leipzig – it's a global effort! Keep demanding justice for Boualem Sansal!
During the Solidarity Evening in Leipzig, attendants will discuss war-and-conflicts, politics, and general news, as these subjects surround the unjust imprisonment of author Boualem Sansal. In light of Sansal's trial, it's essential to follow updates from human rights organizations, such as Amnesty International, PEN International, and Reporters Without Borders, to show continued support for unjustly detained writers and activists.
