MANIFESTO OF INDEPENDENCE: A FAST FOR LIFE, LIBERTY AND THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS


The purpose of my life is to acquire wisdom and attain moral perfection.

I live as a penniless wander and a pilgrim

Wisdom compells me to recognize that moral perfection is impossible for a member of an amoral nation-state.

In the course of wandering the world I discovered the role the United States plays in destroying the Earth and exploiting its inhabitants. I learned I could not attain moral perfection while availing myself of benefits gained through the sufferings of others. So I exercised the freedom to personally determine what I would be: I ceased to be an American citizen and destroyed my American passport.

Consequently, I was "deported" from England to this country against my will and in violation of law. On October 2, 1980 I was forcefully removed from an airplane at the JFK International Airport and compelled to enter the United States despite my vigorous objection.

I now demand that the United States government return me to Great Britain so I can resume my pilgrimage.

I intend to fast until the American government recognizes the ideals from which it draws its authority and allows me to live my life as I see fit. This is not an act of self destruction but an effort to persuade this nation to return to the principles of the Declaration of Independence upon which it was founded.

Given the option of living my life ion decadent luxury at the expense of my fellow creatures, or voluntarily laying it down in the service of Truth, Justice and Freedom, I would choose the latter. I entreat those who understand my words to confront the evils of the nation-state by gathering at the White House to pray for Reason and Sanity and an End to War in illustration of the ideals of non-violence.

Your friend,
Thomas
June 3, 1981


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