Neil Herman

I was incarcerated there from Jan 77 until May of 85. Of course, I remember the riot and ethan being there doing research for the book. During that time I became associated with FUSE (Felon's Unification for Self Endeavor). I was approached and accepted the task of being the editor and putting out the prison newspaper "Under The Gun" with FUSE backing. Even the resident Catholic priest assisted us in our struggle by carrying the draft layouts of the paper to the local printer. The paper was mailed out to numerous prison reform organizations and various prisons. Among the various responses received, was the compliment that it was the best prison newspaper anybody had ever seen. Speaking of the abuse that occurred, I do recall when they came to shake down my cell The sergeant in charge of the goon squad made the statement "This is Herman's cell. He likes to write to newspapers and is behind Under The Gun, have fun." Then, on December 7 of 79, FUSE filed its class action lawsuit against against the institution and the state of washington. I distinctly recall writing in the paper "On Dec 7th, seemingly a good day for dropping bombs, FUSE filed its class action lawsuit ... ". That class action suit did bring about changes. It has now been 45 years since that tumultuous time, and I am still haunted by the memories.