Celebrate lives of Silme Domingo, Gene Viernes on March 20

Book launch party for ‘Summary Execution’ will highlight human rights work of slain Filipino activists 

SEATTLE — All are invited to attend the Commemoration and Book Launch Party celebrating of the lives and work of Silme Domingo and Gene Viernes, and the publication of Summary Execution: The Seattle Assassinations of Silme Domingo and Gene Viernes by Michael Withey, from 6 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, March 20 at the Seattle Labor Temple, 2800 1st Ave.

On June 1, 1981, Domingo and Viernes, two young Filipino activists were murdered in Seattle in what was made to appear a gang slaying. The victims’ families and friends suspected that they were considered a threat to Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos and his regime’s relationship to the United States. In the days after the murders, they formed the Committee for Justice for Domingo and Viernes to investigate. In Summary Execution, attorney and author Michael Withey describes the 10-year struggle for justice waged by that committee.

The March 20 event will feature a performance by the Seattle Labor Chorus and panel on the Filipino, human rights and labor movements that Gene and Silme helped build:

• Terri Mast (MC)
• Cindy Domingo (Committee for Justice for Domingo and Viernes)
• State Rep. Sharon Tomiko Santos (CJDV)
• Jeff Robinson (ACLU)
• Teresa Mosqueda (City Seattle Council Member)
• Rep. Pramila Jayapal (by video)
• Nikkita Oliver (Peoples Party)
• Author Michael Withey
• Presentation by Gov. Jay Inslee (subject to availability)

Filipino appetizers and beverages will be served.

Click here to get more information or RSVP via Facebook. Visit michaelwithey.com to buy a book.