 Chelsea Gerlach was arrested in Portland, Ore. on Dec. 7, 2005 as part of a nationwide sweep that culminated an investigation into actions of the Earth Liberation Front and Animal Liberation Front throughout the West from 1996 to 2001. On July 21, 2006, Chelsea pleaded guilty to 25 charges, including conspiracy and arson of the Childers Meat Company, a Eugene Police Department substation, the headquarters of Boise Cascade timber company, and the Vail ski resort. On May 25, 2007, Chelsea was sentenced to nine years with a terrorism enhancement, which has affected the conditions she is held under. Though the crimes involved only property destruction, not harm to life, the judge decided to apply the enhancement because the actions were politically motivated. Chelsea is currently housed in the maximum-security unit at FMC Carswell in Texas. With time served and time off for good behavior we expect her to be released in 2013. Moved to Tallahassee
Update #16 - August 17, 2010 Chelsea was moved to FCI Talahassee. Please see the sidebar for her new address. Back to school
Update #15 - March 24, 2010
Dear friends and family, I am very happy to report that after having a pacemaker/defribulator implanted in December, my mother is in much better health. She is coming to visit in April for my birthday, and I can't wait to see her. I've been very busy with school and haven't had much time for correspondance (my apologies for being a bad pen-pal; I do still very much appreciate letters). I finished two anthropology courses and started two others: Intro to Psychology and Human Physiology. The physiology class is really tough, even more so because of the contraints of taking it from here. There are no lectures to bring the material into focus and explain complex processes. I can't get timely responses to questions and don't have access to other information sources. Good grades have always come fairly easily to me, but I'm struggling with this one. After burying myself in the textbook for the past month, I finally feel like I'm ready to take the mid-term. We'll see how I do. In both classes, I'm learning interesting things about the science of the brain/mind. The unique physiology of our brains and our accumulated mental habits define our experience of the world. This is a key concept in Buddhism -- reality is not as solid, objective and unchanging as it appears. Because our perceptions are not always accurate, especially when judging the actions or motivations of others, it is always best to procede with openness and compassion. I am in the process of applying to the University of Ohio's College Program for the Incarcerated, the only degree-granting institution available to prisoners. I have been able to take some classes from an agricultural/mechanical college at a lower cost. Together with the credits from before my arrest, I am more than halfway to earning a Bachelor Degree. Most of my remaining classes will have to be from the university and, unfortunately, the tuition is significantly more expensive. Contrary to all common sense about rehabilitation, inmates are not eligible for financial aid, following an act of Congress in 1994. As a convicted terrorist, I'm not exactly an ideal scholarship candidate either. As for other sources, for the past year, my mom has been unable to work due to her health and my dad has been laid off periodically because of recession-induced plant closures. So, I am asking for help to cover the cost of tuition. I know many of you are in the midst of your own financial difficulties and I do not want to add to anyone's hardship. Working for 26-cents an hour at my prison job has given me a new perspective on money. Contributions of any amount would be very much appreciated.
Please send donations to my mother, who will be paying the tuition bills: Deborah Kearns Thank you for all your love and support, Autumn reflections
Update #14 - Nov. 7, 2009
Dear friends and family, Earlier this year, a new inmate e-mail system was installed in my unit and I've mentioned to some of you that I may be able to use it. Unfortunately, after many months of deliberations and reversals by prison administrations from the local to national level, they have decided I will not be allowed access to e-mail. I'm disappointed. As we all know, e-mail is much more convenient. I was lucky to have it for the few months I was at FDC Sea-Tac (prior to the institution of a new policy). I know it's an anachronism these days, so I appreciate everyone taking the time to write and send things through the Pony Express. I mean, USPS. In yet another episode of "My Life as a Convicted Terrorist," I was having a lot of trouble receiving the textbooks for my Buddhist correspondence class, I believe because of new concerns within the BOP regarding religious material that supports terrorism (this following several arrests of suspected terrorists who converted to Islam while in U.S. prisons). The idea of Buddhist terrorism is pretty ridiculous. The class I'm taking now, in fact, is teaching me how to help others without, whether intentionally or not, causing harm. But I suppose if Muslim materials have to be heavily vetted then mine do, too (another so-called "terrorist" in my unit had the same problem receiving Orthodox Catholic texts). I filed an administrative grievance and did finally get them, six months after the class started, and I haven't had any problems since. I'm glad because, as I've said probably enough times you're sick of hearing it, the study and practice of dharma has helped me tremendously in dealing with difficult people and situations in prison, for example, confronting hostility with neither aggressiveness nor passivity. Speaking of difficult people, we went through a particularly rough patch with our unit "problem child" this summer. We spent many hours on emergency lock-down or cleaning up her floods, ruined property and walls smeared with blood and feces. The past couple months have been better, but living with the mentally unstable is always a challenge. The unit demographics are gradually shifting towards more well-behaved "terrorists" and less violent out-of-control disciplinary transfers. But this is the only elevated security unit for federal women prisoners, so, at least for some time, we'll continue to have this weird mix of people. Many of you know that my mother was hospitalized this year for a serious heart condition. It made me very sad that I couldn't be with her, but it helps to know she has a strong network of support. I appreciate everyone's efforts on her behalf. Being self-employed, she doesn't have health insurance, so it's really brought into focus the need for health care reform. Contrary to the clamor about "socialized medicine," my experience in Canada was that it works a lot better than our for-profit system. Please contact your Congressional representatives and let your voice be heard. Autumn reminds us that the only constant is change. The weather turns cold, leaves fall, the light fades. Life ebbs and flows. I hope in this season you find the time to rest, reflect, and take comfort in loved ones. Be well, "It may be that when we no longer know what to do, we have come to our real work, and that when we no longer know which way to go, we have begun the real journey. The mind that is not baffled is not employed. The impeded stream is the one that sings." — Wendell Berry Springtime in Texas
Update #13 - April 1, 2009
Dear friends and family, Spring is upon us here in Texas. The grass outside the fence has turned to a carpet of yellow and purple flowers, trees are budding with leaves and the birds that inhabit the crossbars of our caged yard have gone into an amorous frenzy. It rarely gets cold enough to keep me inside ‒ I take a walk at least once a day ‒ but I'm glad it's getting warm enough again to sit outside. Aside from the fresh air, sunshine and nice view (better than the ubiquitous beige brick) the yard is a much-needed refuge from the yelling that often echoes through the unit. I'm getting better at tuning it out, but I prefer to avoid it when I can. It took me way too long ‒ 9 months ‒ but I've finally finished my Sociology class. For my final assignment I studied how gender relates to prison social dynamics. Basically, the prison system was designed for men. Women's prisons mostly follow the same policies and procedures, but with female inmates the strict rules and rigid hierarchy become slightly more casual. Staff find they do better with more of a rational approach: explaining things, rather than giving orders, for example. In sociological terms, this is called expressive leadership, as opposed to instrumental leadership, which is found more in men's prisons. I knew there was a big difference between male and female institutions, but doing this research emphasized how much better I have it (also, because it's federal, rather than a state prison, and a medical center). Being in a max-security unit is less than ideal, for many reasons, but as prisons go, it could be a lot worse. I've also begun the second year of Buddhist courses. The first year was dedicated to studying Hinayana, or basic vehicle. It teaches that all things, including the "self," are impermanent and interdependent. We cause ourselves to suffer by resisting the ever-changing quality of existence. This was a valuable lesson for me. I can't change my circumstance, but I could make it worse by stewing over how I'd like it to be different. This year's courses are on the Mahayana, or greater vehicle, which is about serving others. Though it's been my intention to act compassionately through most of my life, I have not always done so with a clear mind, open heart and pure motivation, so I've been looking forward to this section.
I'm also in the midst of a 90-day meditation challenge, sponsored by Tricycle, a Buddhist magazine. I had gotten lax in my practice lately, but having a specific goal is motivating me to do it every day. It started on the same day as Lent and follows a similar idea Ń a rededication for a specific period of time that has lasting benefits. I definitely feel better when I meditate regularly, so hopefully I can keep it up. I've started watching a new telenovela called "Mañana es Para Siempre" (Tomorrow is Forever). Most are pretty stupid and superficial, like American soap operas, but this one is a bit more cinematic ‒ a story of lovers kept apart for years by malevolent forces. It's more entertaining and probably more effective than studying Spanish from a book every night, but still I'm glad telenovelas only run for a few months because that's about all the time I want to commit to watching TV regularly. I'm able to follow the story and most of the dialogue, but I also watch with Spanish-speaking friends, so I can ask if I get confused. My other nightly entertainment is a book group. One person reads aloud, even doing different voices and accents for the various characters, while the rest of us work on crafts. I'm currently crocheting an afghan for my bed. We're reading Neil Gaiman's "Coraline" now, having enjoyed his latest, "The Graveyard Book." We often read children's chapter books ‒ Inkheart, Lemony Snicket, Chronicles of Narnia ‒ because they read aloud well and don't require too much concentration. If anyone has suggestions of other books in this vein, please let me know. We've noticed that newly released children's books are quite dark compared to what we read when we were young. I suppose it's a reflection of the times. Their message of marshaling your courage and pressing forward despite a bleak landscape full of adversity speaks to many of us adults, too. I am feeling hopeful about the new direction the country is taking, but there will no doubt be difficulties ahead. I wish you all strength and clarity to face whatever challenges await you. Love,
Chelsea Dear friends and family
Update #12 - December 16, 2008
I am happy that I am now able to write my own updates. As many of you
know, my communications are monitored and restricted by the Department
of Homeland Security, so I will keep this brief for now. The holidays are always a difficult time for me to be separated from
my family, but I am finding I have much to be grateful for this year.
After three years, I finally feel like I have a home to celebrate in
(albeit a modest and, thankfully, temporary one). Last year, I had
just arrived here and was still segregated. Now, I have friends and
can participate in holiday activities: we made ornaments and decorated
our unit, I starred in our Christmas play (as a retired "elf," of
course). Though there is typically considerable conflict and
volatility in our unit (given that it houses just 18 of us), everyone
is making an effort to get along during the holidays and I am enjoying
the relative peace. Max security prison isn't an ideal environment for focused
concentration, but I have been making steady progress throughout the
year on academic and personal pursuits. I am taking several
correspondence courses, including a college sociology class. I am
still hoping to finish my degree here, but, unfortunately, it's hard
to find classes that fit within prison rules. I'm taking a series of
Buddhist correspondence courses which is helping me tremendously in
this chaotic environment. Also, my self-taught Spanish is getting
better and better. If anyone has suggestions for Spanish-language
novels, please send them. I injured my knee playing sports in the summer, but with the help of
physical therapy, it is now healed. I am very glad to be able to
exercise regularly again. I find it's not just good for my body, but
for my mind as well. I am very grateful for all of the support I have received this year „
letters, cards, books and financial donations. They make a huge
difference in my quality of life. If you would like to send me
something for Christmas (or at any other time of the year) please see
the guidelines on the right side bar on the website. We had previously
recommended sending money through Western Union, but sending postal
money orders (not directly to me, there is a different Bureau of
Prisons address) appears to be equally reliable, easier for some, and
avoids paying an extra fee. Please let me know when you send money or
books, so I can verify their receipt. Thank you for your generosity. I wish you all joy and peace this season and throughout the year. May
we all experience grace. Chelsea Chelsea's life in prison
Update #11 - March 4, 2008
Chelsea is settling into her new home; she is no longer restricted to her cell but is contained to the small administrative unit at FMC Carswell in Texas. This is the only place for high- or maximum-security federal women and houses just 17 inmates. They have a small, caged yard, so Chelsea's been able to go outside for the first time since she left Eugene. The Department of Homeland Security has imposed special monitoring of all her communications. Her phone use is restricted because it has to be scheduled in advance. She has been denied a confidential call with her attorney. Her mail has to be screened and approved in Washington D.C. As far as we know, there are no new restrictions on what she is allowed to receive, but we donŐt know if all her mail is actually going through. If you have sent her correspondence and havenŐt received a response, please let us know. Thank you to everyone who has sent Chelsea books in the last couple months. We have updated her amazon.com wish list, but please do not send any books now. She is only allowed to have 10 at a time. Before sending books, always check the lower righthand sidebar of the website, to see if she is over or under her limit. On a final note, we asked that you take a minute today to pray for Briana Waters who is currently facing trial in Seattle in a related case. Please note: Chelsea turns 31 on April 6! She would love to receive birthday messages! Chelsea is in Carswell, Texas
Update #10 - December 21, 2007
On Dec. 7, 2007, the second anniverary of her incarceration, Chelsea was moved to FMC Carswell in Texas.
She has been designated to the maximum security administrative unit. Within this unit, there are five security levels. She is currently at the highest and is not allowed to leave her cell. She has not had any disciplinary incidents, so we believe this designation is a direct result of the terrorism enhancement being applied to her case.
Chelsea is doing well, but would very much appreciate letters during this period of isolation. She also requests artwork and pictures, because all of her personal property was taken from her (including letters and her address book).
This move is especially difficult for her and her family coming at this time of year. We thank you for your support and wish you and your family joy and peace this holiday season! Chelsea is in Seattle
Update #9 - August 28, 2007
Chelsea has been moved to the SeaTac Federal Dentention Center just outside of Seattle. Her new mailing address is: Chelsea Gerlach We've learned that she was moved on the 24th but it took a while for us to figure out both that she had been moved and where she had been moved to. If you sent her anything after the 24th, it will likely be returned to you. Please send her mail and any encouragement you can. She really needs your support right now. Unfortunately, FDC SeaTac only allows visits from the family. But please send her a note to tell her you're thinking about her!
Thanks for your continued support! Chelsea was sentenced to nine years.
Update #7 - May 25, 2007
Chelsea's statement to the media: It's becoming increasingly clear that the continued exploitation of the Earth is causing drastic consequences: global warming, toxic pollution, mass extinction. Fundamental changes are needed in our society to achieve peace and sustainability. We all need to take personal responsibility for healing our relationship with the land and with each other. The family's statement: Chelsea is a very special person and we know that she will use her time in prison to the betterment of those around her. As her family, we appreciate the kindness Judge Aiken showed in reducing her sentence by a year. However, the government made the very rare decision to reverse its recommendation and allow her to be released pending prison and we're very disappointed that the court didn't approve that request. With how impressed both sides of the table were with her transformation, we're frankly shocked that the court didn't give that much more consideration in reducing her sentence. As regards the statements against her parents: We recognize and respect the decision of the court, however, the judge did not fully understand Chelsea's exceptional early maturity and accomplishments that earned our respect and trust. She had never given any indication of poor judgement or criminal intent and her parents trusted her. It wasn't benign neglect. We share the grief of the tragedy of these crimes, but it wasn't caused by parental neglect. In all, this experience has brought us closer to Chelsea and closer together as a family and in that way we are grateful for it. Her Statement Made to the Court
Update #4 - July 21, 2006
"Thank you for the opportunity to say a few things.
I would like to first apologize to everyone who has been hurt by my actions. It was not my intention to hurt anyone or to invoke fear. I'm sorry my actions had that effect. These actions were motivated by a deep sense of despair and anger at the deteriorating state of the global environment and the escalating inequities within society. But I realized years ago this was not an effective or appropriate way to effect positive change. I now know that it is better to act from love than from anger, better to create than destroy and better to plant gardens than to burn down buildings. I have taken responsibility for what I've done and will make amends by being a voice for peace in an increasingly hostile and polarized world. Thank you." Chelsea is doing well considering the circumstances
and thanks you all for sending her your love, prayers and good energy. For more information, send an email to Chelsea's
support committee at freechelseagerlach at hotmail dot com.
Biography Chelsea was born in the small logging community of Sweet Home, Ore. She graduated from International High School in South Eugene. An activist from an early age, Chelsea was arrested during an EarthFirst! campaign in a roadless area of Idaho at age 16. She has been involved in many different aspects of the environmental movement, such as interning with the Oregon Natural Resources Council, canvassing for the Sierra Club, and leading the Environmental Resource Center at Evergreen State College.
For several years before her arrest, she had become passionate about music, working as a professional DJ in Portland, Ore.
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WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP CHELSEA:
Write: Please remember that all mail is read
by authorities and MUST HAVE A RETURN ADDRESS. Donating: There are several ways to donate to Chelsea's commissary. Read about them here. Personal checks can be sent to: Chelsea Gerlach Chelsea is more than halfway to earning her Bachelor's Degree, however inmates are ineligible for financial aid and she must pay as she goes. Any help toward her tuition is greatly appreciated! Books: Chelsea has compiled an Amazon.com wishlist for those who would like to send her books!
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