DOWNTOWN -- The Richmond Chapter of the Industrial Workers of the World will be protesting outside the Richmond City Courthouse located at 701 E. Broad Street today.

From 11:30 to 1 pm, protesters will gather outside of the Courthouse in support of what is being called the largest prison strike in American history.

The "December 9th Strike," a work-strike led by prisoners in Georgia which began on the 9th of December, is demanding better facilities, new programs, and improved conditions.

The Richmond IWW's planned protest will be in support of the inmates, and the chapter is calling for supporters to make phone calls and send e-mails on behalf of the striking prisoners.

"The Richmond Industrial Workers of the World feel it is within our responsibility as fellow workers," their e-mail reads, "to show solidarity with our brothers and sisters in the Georgia state prison system, and echo their demands to retain their dignity and status as human beings."