From Madonna's Raising Malawi distribution list (thanks to Steve), Madonna expands on her statement from last night on the travesty of justice in Malawi, and is starting a list of like-minded people on this subject. The country, which receives lots of support from her, needs to be made to feel international pressure from all angles, and this is a good angle for starters:

"Dear _____,

"Steven Monjeza and Tiwonge Chimbalanga will spend the next 14 years in a Malawi jail, sentenced to hard labor.

"They aren't murderers. They didn't steal. In fact, they didn't commit a crime.

"They were convicted of homosexuality.

"I call upon the progressive men and women of Malawi -- and around the world -- to challenge this decision in the name of human dignity and equal rights for all.

"Please add your name to mine in a pledge of support for the freedom to love:

"http://www.raisingmalawi.org/FreedomToLove

"I am shocked and saddened by the recent decision made by the Malawian court. As a matter of principle, I believe in equal rights for all people, no matter what their gender, race, color, religion, or sexual orientation.

"This week, Malawi took a giant step backward. The world is filled with pain and suffering; therefore, we must support our basic human right to love and be loved.

"I will not sit back and be silent while two men are sentenced to 14 years hard labor simply for loving each other. I hope you will add your name to mine, and speak to your friends and family on this issue:

"http://www.raisingmalawi.org/FreedomToLove

"Love, Madonna"