Organized by Regina Russell

I have fought for my son’s, Tamon Russell, freedom for over twenty years. Our fight is nearing an end and Tamon will finally get an opportunity to prove his innocence in court. We need to raise $20,000 to continue to pay for his legal defense. Will you chip in to help us win Tamon's freedom?

In 2001, at the age of 19, my son Tamon Russell was kidnapped and tortured by Chicago police. They kept my son handcuffed to the wall, assaulted him, and refused to let him use the restroom for over 24 hours. Despite there being no evidence linking him to the crime, Tamon was wrongfully convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to 45 years in prison.

Our life was typical before 2001. Like most teenagers, Tamon lived with me. He was a pretty good kid. He was a prankster, funny, and silly. Our relationship was good—a typical relationship that any mother can have with a teenage son—he wanted to stay out late, he wanted to have a lot of company, and he didn't want to do his chores—but for the most part, he was a pretty good young man.

As a single mom, I relied on him a lot, and he was a big support to our family. He helped with his younger sister Gianna; he would pick her up from school, he would take her places, and would babysit her.

For the last twenty years, despite our efforts to keep him connected to our family, he’s been robbed of the opportunity to be the brother he wanted to be.

The In-Justice System Wrongfully Convicted Tamon:

During Tamon’s original trial, the alibis provided by myself and Tamon’s sister were ignored. We continued to advocate for Tamon’s innocence and for the additional evidence to be considered. We’ve invested tens of thousands of dollars and even more hours into advocating for a new trial but also to sustain Tamon physically and emotionally while in prison.

After 15 years in prison, two eyewitnesses came forward to clear him. One of the men had testified against Tamon in the 2001 trial; the other was a new witness, who gave Tamon the legal basis for an appeal of actual innocence.

It took nine years from the time this witness came forward for Tamon and our community to get to this hearing. Racist Judge Joyce sent Tamon back to prison, but his ruling was a travesty of justice. Tamon‘s attorney believes the decision by Joyce can be overturned on appeal and Tamon can win a new trial. All that stands in the way now is money. We need to raise $20,000.

This campaign isn't just about one individual; it's a call to action for all of us who believe in justice and equality! By contributing, you will play a part in the fight against systemic injustices that separate families and devastate communities. You’ll be standing with the Mamas Activating Movements for Abolition, the Chicago Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression, and the Campaign to Free Incarcerated Survivors of Torture- a coalition of advocates committed to supporting me, Regina Russell, and the hundreds of other families fighting to regain their freedom stolen by this corrupt system.

Any amount you can donate will help, and sharing this fundraiser within your networks can amplify our efforts.

Thank you for taking the time to read this message and for considering how you can help support us in our vital mission.