While living in a "free" country, it's easy to take for granted our right to freedom of speech. Being a poet/writer/teacher living in the U.S., I feel deeply for my brothers and sisters who are in oppressed countries where freedom of speech is not allowed. Consequences include being arrested, tortured, and/or killed. The power of language and words is undeniable. As a result, oppressive governments strive to silence voices and the freedom to think. I believe, it is our responsibility as writers and human beings to do what we can to help those who are imprisoned for their basic human right to free speech and thought. Please join me in signing this petition to free Tashi Rabten. He is one person, but it is a great battle between David and Goliath and David must win. Freedom and Truth must win.

http://www.change.org/petitions/chinese-government-release-tibetan-poet-tashi-rabten