Remember the arrest of Carlos Miller? Well, it's time to show some support for the freelance photographer who was arrested while doing his job.
Everything I've read about this case makes me believe that the Miami P.D. abused its power and that Miller was arrested simply for defending his rights as an American and photojournalist. From the website for the South Florida chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists (including some updates e-mailed to the Pulp):
Journalists defend one of our ownPhotography is not a crime. It's a First Amendment right.
When Miami freelance photographer Carlos Miller was arrested Feb. 20 for taking photos of Miami police performing their public duties on a public street, the Society of Professional Journalists’ Legal Defense Fund came to his aid.
Now it's time for us to give back. And have some fun doing so. The South Florida Chapter of SPJ is holding a benefit from 1 to 5 p.m. May 12 at the Grace Galleries and Cafe, 49 N. Federal Highway, Dania Beach. The historic two-story building is in the downtown arts and antiques district.
The afternoon will include a silent auction featuring works donated by Miller and other local photographers, including Wendy Doscher-Smith , Danny Hammontree, Edward Regan and Eileen Soler.
Entertainment will be provided by Tortas y Tacones (Sandwiches and Heels) from Category305 , spoken word
poetry by Carlos Miller, and a string quartet from the Ars Flores Symphony Orchestra.
There will also be chances to win prizes in raffle drawings. Sandwiches, salads, wraps and beverages will be available for purchase too. Big Mama will be cooking and serving her tasty barbecue fare, as well.
Admission is free and open to the entire community. Proceeds from the auction and raffle will go to Society of Professional Journalists Legal Defense Fund, which aids reporters and photographers nationwide in defending the freedom of speech and press guaranteed by the First Amendment of the United States Constitution. A portion of the proceeds will also go toward Miller's mounting legal fees.
Proceeds from the barbecue will go toTeam of Life, Inc., a Fort Lauderdale-based charity that assists children.
Also, many thanks to Clare Vickery of Grace Cafe and Galleries for providing us with space for our event. Her two-story historic building houses represents more than 25 artists. There's also a stained glass studio, vintage and handmade jewelry, furniture and designer dolls.
Miller's misdemeanor trial, meanwhile, has been postponed to let defense attorney Joseph Shook investigate the First Amendment angles and take depositions from the policemen.
Here a link to Miller's blog.
