Scott Cobb outlines below how Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty Abolition Movement is leveraging the social web to rally support around their cause.
I would like to nominate for The Jenzabar Foundation Social Media Leadership Award: a group of allied organizations in Texas that have been using social media to effectively work together against the Texas death penalty: Texas Moratorium Network, Texas Death Penalty Abolition Movement, the Austin chapter of Campaign to End the Death Penalty, Texas Students Against the Death Penalty, Kids Against the Death Penalty, Students Against the Death Penalty and the Texas Death Penalty Education and Resource Center. These groups have a cause on Facebook called Abolish the Death Penalty in Texas. Each organization brings unique skills and experiences to the cause. Decisions on how to use any award money will be made jointly by these organizations.
This alliance is a great example of how small organizations can have a remarkable impact way out of proportion to their funding by using social media tools to work together.
These grassroots groups work against the death penalty in the state that has executed more people than any other state. Texas has executed 436 people since 1982. The second place state has executed 103.
Texas Moratorium Network was an early adopter of social media tools from its start back in 2000. Our first website, created using phpWebSite, allowed us to make blog posts long before the word “blog” became popular. We have sinced starting using Blogger as our main blog while keeping our main website at texasmoratorium.org. In addition to our own blog, we reach a larger audience by posting occasionally about death penalty issues on other community blog sites, such as DailyKos and Burnt Orange Report.TMN uses Google Reader and Blogburst to destribute its news to a wider audience. If we win the social media award, we plan to use part of it to begin a joint Texas death penalty news and action site using the open source program OpenPublish.
TMN and its allies have used Joomla to create websites such as SharonKiller.com, deathpenaltyartshow.org, TexasAbolition.org, SaveJeffWood.com, and others. The TMN PAC website uses WordPress. TMN’s main website still uses phpWebSite, but we want to transition to another content management system soon in order to integrate better social networking tools. We also want to link the social networking tools across all of our allied organizations.
Texas Students Against the Death Penalty offers a website creation and consulting service for families and supporters of people on death row who want to bring their campaigns online. TSADP’s Online Mobilization Program has created sites include freerodneyreed.org and howardguidry.com. TSADP would like to offer every family with someone on Texas death row the opportunity to have an online presence.
TSADP and SADP run the award-winning program “Anti-Death Penalty Alternative Spring Break, which brings young people to Austin for a week of education and activism so that they can become leaders of the next generation in the anti-death penalty movement. It has been featured on MTV. SADP has 2,200 members in its Facebook group, which it uses to organize spring break.
TSADP and TMN operate one of the most successful non profit channels on YouTube. Stopexecutions on YouTube. The channel already has 180 videos. In 2007, TSADP and TMN created a group on YouTube dedicated to winning a commutation for Kenneth Foster. It was the first video campaign ever created on behalf of someone on death row.
You can find TMN on Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, Flickr, Change.org or read its blog. TMN feeds its blog automatically to Twitter using TwitterFeed and through the SocialActions website.
TMN routinely uses an online service to allow its supporters to send messages to the Texas governor, members of the legislature and the board of pardons and paroles. For example, during the campaign for Kenneth Foster, more than 6,000 messages were sent through TMN’s system.
The Austin chapter of Campaign to End the Death Penalty organized the successful campaign to save the life of Kenneth Foster, Jr., who was sentenced to death under the Texas Law of Parties despite not having killed anyone. CEDP organized marches, speak-outs, sit-ins, and emails and phone calls to the governor and Board of Pardons and Paroles to achieve a rare commutation of Foster’s sentence from execution to life in prison – a major victory in the capital punishment capital of the United States. CEDP and the other allies used social media tools to help coordinate the multi-faceted campaign that included attorneys, activists and members of Kenneth Foster’s own family.
Kids Against the Death Penalty is the newest member of the Texas group of allied anti-death penalty organizations. They were recently named the 2009 Youth Abolitionists of the Year.
The Texas Death Penalty Abolition Movement is a good example of a veteran organization that is moving online by working with younger members of the alliance. Members of the “Abolition Movement” have been organizing against the death penalty since long before the internet existed. Their members now use Facebook and Myspace to organize online.
The Texas Death Penalty Education and Resource Center is a 501 (c) (3) that works to facilitate collaboration among the Texas allies against the death penalty.
Here are some other online tools TMN uses that could be adopted by other groups in their online campaigns to increase their impact without spending a lot of money.
TMN has found many new volunteers through VolunteerMatch.com. TMN most recently started using the social collaboration site Amazee.com. Its “Abolish the Death Penalty for free voice mail.
TMN uses ConstantContact for its email newsletter that goes out to thousands of people.
TMN uses Magnify.net to run a video aggregation page
TMN uses Picnik to edit photos for flyers and websites and stores them on Picassa, Flickr or Photobucket. See photos of the recent March in Houston on Picassa here
TMN uses Wufoo to collect information through forms, such as registering people for Anti-Death Penalty Alternative Spring Break. Texas Lobby Day Against the Death Penalty and for online petitions, such as the recently published petition to protest the 200th execution under Rick Perry and a petition to remove Sharon Keller from office. A past online Keller petition resulted in charges being brought against Keller after we turned in the names and a complaint to the State Commission on Judicial Conduct.
TMN uses SproutBuilder to create widgets to promote actions such as the Save Jeff Wood widget.
TMN uses Scribd.com to post documents online.
TMN uses Widgetbox to get more people to read our blog posts and Feedburner to allow people to subscribe to receive our blogposts by email. Subscribe to Texas Moratorium Network blogposts by Email
The Texas allies against the death penalty recently worked together using online social media tools to organize a Lobbby Day Against the Texas Death Penalty and an ongoing campaign to end the death penalty under the Law of Parties. We just convinced a committee in the Texas House of Representatives to approve the Law of Parties bill, which was a major victory. By using our website SharonKiller.com, we helped win an indictment against Texas’s highest criminal judge on charges of misconduct and we got the Texas Legislature to hold an impeachment hearing against her on April 27.
Texas is a challenging environment in which to work against the death penalty, but these groups have found a way to make significant progress against the death penalty by working together both offline and online using social media tools for education, outreach and grassroots organizing. Texas is a large state, so it is vitally important for groups here to use social media tools effectively. In the future, we want to increase our capacity to work for human rights in Texas by finding new ways to expand our use of online social media tools in order to identify new activists and grow our movement to achieve legislative victories on policy and to organize campaigns to stop specific executions.
If you think we have have been doing a good job using online social activism tools, especially considering that we are all-volunteer organizations, please vote for us in The Jenzabar Foundation Social Media Leadership Award by leaving a comment below.
TMN uses Upcoming.org and Eventful.comto promote events, such as upcoming execution protests.
” project on Amazee recently won $1,000 from Amazee for the Texas alliance of anti-death penalty groups to use against the death penalty. We won by having the most members add our Abolish the Death Penalty project to their Facebook profiles, which was the goal of the contest.
TMN uses GrandCentral
Since 2003, TMN has sent text alerts about executions to cell phones using Upoc
499 responses so far ↓
Gloria // April 25, 2009 at 4:34 am |
It is impressive what this alliance has done using social media tools. Hope they win the contest as it sounds like they have lots of work to do in Texas!
Crystal Caviel // April 27, 2009 at 7:08 pm |
A change is coming! Kudos to all the groups involved.
Adam Axel // April 27, 2009 at 10:38 pm |
Abolish the Death Penalty!
Marilyn Robinson // May 1, 2009 at 12:57 pm |
Your ambitions to do the “right” thing is to be commended. Do not stop.
Bro. Robert Muhammad // May 7, 2009 at 11:55 am |
(Correction) As a spiritual advisor to two death row inmates in 2000, I know the value of this coalition against the death penalty. It was tramatic to watch two innocent men die at the hands of the state. More than sympathy is needed to understand the pain of someone having grown close to people wrongly convicted and unjustly executed before your eyes. You need people who have been in the trenches with you all along who are empathetic. I commend this mighty coalition for using social media in this modern time. But I also love them for still being willing to pass out good old fashion handbills and get a bullhorn to put this unjust system on notice. You continue to enjoy my utmost respect and affection for your humanity and steadfast commitment to justice. Peace
Kamran // May 8, 2009 at 9:23 pm |
No death penalty!
Jack // April 25, 2009 at 6:43 am |
I am impressed by your organization’s use of so many online websites and programs. Reading other blog options, I think this organization has been most active and creative using online media to promote their cause. I’ll vote for Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty.
Bryan McCann // April 25, 2009 at 2:28 pm |
Abolish the racist death penalty!
Julie B. // April 30, 2009 at 6:57 pm |
Stop the killing for killing.
Moira Brown // April 26, 2009 at 1:51 am |
This is a hugely important issue; thanks to these orgs working to push and push to bring us into the 21st Century, the “civilized” world.
Rosemary Vollmar // April 26, 2009 at 2:15 am |
I became a member of the Texas Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty-bv about 5 years ago. I have stood on a street corner helping hold a 22 foot banner in the Texas summer heat and in the winter rains in order for drivers-by to see and possibly start a dialogue with their fellow passengers about the death penalty here in Texas. I have seen a mother, stopped at the red light with a young daughter in the car reading the “STOP EXECUTIONS” sign, having to explain what we were doing and what the sign meant. This is a good sign–young people being able to start learning so they can make informed intelligent decisions as they grow up. I have been interviewed for the radio, the local paper, the University’s paper and have had my picture on the front page of both papers. I have had dinner with Rev. Carroll Pickett (the well known Texas death house Minister) and his wife. I was fortunate to be able to hear family members of murder victims speak out against the death penalty.
I am a local political activist, and I know first-hand that grassroots movements CAN effect change quickly especially compared to changes at the Federal level. So if we use our powers, both grassroots activism and social networks, for good, we WILL effect the changes we need in the death penalty legislation.
Rosemary Vollmar
Bryan, Texas
Leslie Gold // April 26, 2009 at 2:20 am |
The Texas Anti-Death Penalty Groups are doing amazing work by bringing fairness, results and hope to a very prejudiced and socially racist justice system. Doing the heart wrenching and exhausting work they do for prisoners and their innocent families, they will wisely use every dollar raised.
Paula Keeth // April 26, 2009 at 2:32 am |
I am connected with many of these groups via social media tools. They quickly get people informed and organized to take action on this issue.
Ida Berresheim // April 26, 2009 at 2:33 am |
The network of organizations against the death penalty in Texas and throughout the country continue to work together. The collaboration is bringing us closer to our goal.
Debbie // April 26, 2009 at 2:56 am |
Executions are wrong and need to be stopped. I have witnessed one and its not easy to watch someone die and feel useless.
Jolian Kangas // April 26, 2009 at 3:10 am |
Bringing Texas into the twenty-first century…
Rebecca Kimmel // April 26, 2009 at 3:32 am |
I can’t thank the Texas Anti-Death Penalty groups enough for their tireless work against the death penalty. Texas is truly gound zero in this fight. I would never want anyone else to go through what my family and I went through in 2007 when the state decided to embrace the values of murder and took my husband’s life right in front of us. Therefore, I commend the good work of Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty and all the other groups who are trying to bring an end to state murder in Texas.
Keeley MacKenzie // April 26, 2009 at 3:45 am |
The volunteers do full-time work to make everyone aware of the inequity of our “criminal justice system” and resulting dealth penalty sentences. They are resourceful, determined and steadfast. The Texas Anti-Death Penalty Groups have shown how well they use limited funds to educate the public and work to change an unprincipled, biased system.
Caitlin McClune // April 26, 2009 at 4:04 am |
Nice work. And I hope you win.
Jason Kyriakides // April 26, 2009 at 4:33 am |
The death penalty sets the US apart from the rest of the global community, as it’s a barbaric, torturous process that fails to deter crime and unfairly targets non-Whites and the poor. These groups need the money to end this false punishment and begin setting the country back on the right path of justice.
Tracey // April 26, 2009 at 4:40 am |
As an Australian I find the death penalty a simply barbaric thing for any government to do to their own citizens. I applaud any group that is working to stop this sickening system.
LaDonna Peek // April 26, 2009 at 5:36 am |
Great work everyone! I am especially excited about the work you are doing and the current legislation regarding the law of parties. Even those FOR the death penalty should realize how wrong this practice is!
Alison Dieter // April 26, 2009 at 6:01 am |
TMN can use more donations to access a program that determines the state legislators for the many people on our email /mailing list – so our members can contact them asking support for death penalty reform legislation. We can also fund travel for many innocent prisoners exonerated from death row and family members of those still on death row so that they may testify at Texas legislative committee hearings for justice reform bills.
AnnaV // April 26, 2009 at 6:19 am |
Stop the state-sanctioned killing in Texas!
Claudio // April 26, 2009 at 6:22 am |
stop death penalty
Gilles DENIZOT // April 26, 2009 at 6:32 am |
There is virtually NO social media tool left unused by the Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty! This is how we manage to be in contact, to follow minute by minute the dreadful countdown before an execution, to mobilize people from all over the globe. This is done with little if no money, in a US state where executing a human being – guilty or innocent – receives a lot of financial and political support and benefits from extended press coverage. Social media tools are a blessing for families and friends of human beings currently on death row: to alert activists and to reveal major shameful cases, such as the current Sharon Keller impeachment trial, or the upcoming 200th execution under Gov. Perry. The very fact that information now travels world-wide on the web seconds after an execution is one of the major tool against the Death Penalty we could ever dream of. The Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty have long understood the value of social media tools and made the best of their use. Please consider supporting them and rewarding them. Thank you! GD
Scott Cobb // April 26, 2009 at 7:07 am |
We have been making extraordinary progress building a movement against the death penalty in Texas. It may not be easily apparent from outside Texas, but we are in the midst of a transformative period in Texas as people become more and more receptive to our message. New social media tools are critical to the success of our work in Texas. Thank you to the Jenzabar Foundation for creating the Social Media Leadership Award. Good luck to all the worthy organizations struggling to improve the world and create a more just society.
Olivia Healy // April 26, 2009 at 7:07 am |
Effective and efficient. Great work!
Yvette Holden. England. // April 26, 2009 at 8:03 am |
All of the anti death penalty groups do so much to educate the masses against the evils of capital punishment they deserve to win. Goodluck
Melissa // April 26, 2009 at 8:34 am |
stop this archaic eye for an eye.
abolish the death penalty…..
Elizabeth Soboeiro // April 26, 2009 at 9:15 am |
Killing is wrong, no matter who does it. The people of Texas need to take a stand against the death penalty.
Shirley Martyn // April 26, 2009 at 9:46 am |
The death penalty does not deter criminals and does not bring closure or justice to victims and families of victims. It is an outrage and an embarrassing fact as a Texan that this state leads in state-sanctioned killings.
baluteau // April 26, 2009 at 11:02 am |
Please, stop killing people in texas
Katha Pollitt // April 26, 2009 at 11:14 am |
Texas performs a high proportion of all executions in the US, and is notorious for its neglect of defendants right to a fair trial. These groups are fighting a noble battle for human rights. They deserve to win the Jenzabar Foundation Award.
Jeanne Marshall // April 26, 2009 at 12:05 pm |
It is important to support groups who are working so creatively and cooperatively to educate people about death penalty issues. Because Texas has one of the worst records for executions, the work of these groups is very important, so that the possibility of a wrongly convicted individual being executed is eliminated.
Delia Perez Meyer // April 26, 2009 at 12:20 pm |
Having an innocent brother on death row, Louis Castro Perez, I wanted to take a moment to share how important the Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty are. 12 years ago, no one would discuss the death penalty with us – now the whole world knows about our corrupt and inept system of justice, or rather, injustice. Our groups have worked tirelessly to become informed about death row cases, investigate and then educate the public about the death penalty debaucle in Texas. Our successes have been few and far between but they have all been so bittersweet – getting all the juveniles out of death row; helping save the mentally ill ones from being executed; going up against the world courts to save the foreign nationals from our death machine; bringing down the Law of Parties, and most importantly for me, giving me the love and support I needed to get through this nightmare with my brother. They deserve this award hands down – just spend 1 day with us here on the frontlines of the battlefield – you’ll see why Texas Friends and Allies is deserving. We promise to keep fighting until we Abolish the Death Penalty in Texas and around the World!!! Thank you for your consideration. Best Regards to all, xoxoxo dm
Tracy Medberry // April 27, 2009 at 11:51 pm |
May God bless you and your brother, Delia. Hoping and praying for the best for you!
Tracy
Eye and Tooth Project
Lynn Furay // April 26, 2009 at 1:03 pm |
These groups havebeen dynamite with current
actions against the death penalty.
Petra // April 26, 2009 at 2:17 pm |
Thank you folks in Texas! Get stronger.
Karla Lorena Aguilar // April 26, 2009 at 2:33 pm |
These folks are doing so much with their limited resources, I hope we can work together to defeat the death penalty in Texas. The time is now!! There is a consciousness brewing about the death penalty in the US and the work that Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty is doing is central to that. Onward!!
Tammy Cantu // April 26, 2009 at 3:28 pm |
They deserve to win as they fight so hard to end Capital Punishment. Good luck and keep up the good work!!
Alex Torres // April 26, 2009 at 3:44 pm |
Death penalty is an archaic form of justice that has no place in the modern society. Keep up your good work and help advance human rights even in the darkest corner of our society…
Alex // April 26, 2009 at 4:09 pm |
I hope they succeed to abolish the death penalty.
Robert Edwards // April 26, 2009 at 5:00 pm |
In ass-kicking Texas, what better cause to support? I understand that Austin, the state capitol, is an island of sanity. Thank you, Austin. I support this anti-DP work and hope that Texan death penalty opponents will continue to educate those who do not embrace compassion. Please continue the push for another way of managing those convicted of the most serious crimes. Texas anti-DP people: Kick Ass.
Monica Wilson // April 26, 2009 at 6:19 pm |
The death penalty should be eliminated from every state in the union. It only amounts to revenge and is illogical. How do we demonstrate an act is wrong by committing that same act?
Humans cannot influence their humanity by the acts they committ.
Dania // April 26, 2009 at 6:19 pm |
TMN is really a great example how social media can help causes to find followers, supporters and attention! Good luck to Scott and his team!
David Lawton // April 26, 2009 at 9:42 pm |
They are promoting a great cause.
Scott Jones // April 26, 2009 at 10:07 pm |
Keep up the great work. Very impressive use of the media.
Becca // April 26, 2009 at 11:11 pm |
I hope that TMN wins. I think it vital for them to get their message against the death penalty out there.
Donnajeanchamberlain // April 27, 2009 at 12:03 am |
Capital P:unishment creates victims. Speaking as a mother whose son was executed in Huntsville, Texas, I must tell you that Karl Chamberlain’s family was and continues to
suffer the consequences of the death penalty
in Texas. Karl has eight living brothers and sisters who suffer every day. I have been in and out of mental and hospital institutions before and after Karl was legally murdered. I can no longer hold down a job. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder may be the condition each mother, father, brother, sister, cousin, aunt, uncle, friend
are given when their loved on is executed. The
millions of dollars spent on treatment must be an
issue brought forward. The death penalty creates more victims and endless cycle s of trauma and injustice. The tireless work of those in Texas should be rewarded. $300,000.00
would not be too much to give for their efforts.
Let the $3,000.00 go to those in Texas who are earnest in ending this devastating cycle. mu’ina
Bill Vaught // April 27, 2009 at 12:04 am |
I know first hand the great work TMN does. They were a great assistance to me when my brother was executed.
Carolina Soza-Gonzalez // April 27, 2009 at 12:14 am |
Thanks for your great work.
NO MORE DEATH PENALTY!
FREE GABRIEL GONZALEZ!
Debbie Nathan // April 27, 2009 at 12:17 am |
Kudos to the TX Allies against the Death Penalty!
Marie Jezequel // April 27, 2009 at 12:22 am |
I am glad this tool exist for voicing our outrage against the racist capital punishment.
Good luck with your work . I wish I could do more
kenny jones // April 27, 2009 at 12:23 am |
I support the Abolish the Death Penalty in Texas coalition–they are worthy of this award on so many levels. Thank you!
Jason B. // April 27, 2009 at 1:00 am |
TMN is an effective organization championing abolition of the cruel, racist capital punishment system of state-sanctioned lynching.
Patricia // April 27, 2009 at 1:08 am |
The death penalty is racist and wrong and let’s work toward the first step of getting the law of parties off the books in Texas!
Rick Phillips // April 27, 2009 at 1:19 am |
The great work done by these organizations to one day rid the Sharon Kellers and Rick Perrys and their supporters from power and influence is slowly coming. Keep up the struggle to rid us all of these evolutionaly challenged people
Woody // April 27, 2009 at 1:43 am |
I appreciated the informative presentation on this issue at the meeting of the Guadalupe County Democrats a few months back. Keep up your good work.
David Perry // April 27, 2009 at 2:22 am |
May they persevere until, thankfully, they are no longer necessary because the backward, barbarian practice of allegedly legal killing of human beings is ended forever.
David Perry // April 27, 2009 at 2:23 am |
PS. I’m a UT Law alumnus.
Frances Morey // April 27, 2009 at 2:45 am |
I support TMN causes. They deserve to win this prize money. The money is put to good use.
Deborah // April 27, 2009 at 2:48 am |
Keep up the great work!!!
Sheridan Phillips // April 27, 2009 at 3:09 am |
I appreciate all of the efforts of this group.
Albert Monroe // April 27, 2009 at 3:22 am |
It is long past time to end the death penalty in Texas and around the world. The Texas Moratorium Network is taking critical steps towards abolition of the death penalty once and for all.
Jody Jorgensen // April 27, 2009 at 3:33 am |
I do not expect to see capital punishment banned in Texas my lifetime – I am nearly 80. But thanks to the wonderful work of the anti-death penalty groups public awareness is growing daily. Attitudes are changing so that someday soon such barbarity will be in the past. I am so grateful to the dedicated people who give so much time and hope to this cause.
Crystal Brown // April 27, 2009 at 3:40 am |
I support the Texas Moratorium Network.
gloria rubac // April 27, 2009 at 3:55 am |
Great work by these organizations!
JeremyB // April 27, 2009 at 4:16 am |
I’m a big fan of the work done by the Texas Moratorium Network and the creative, effective tools they use to get the word out. Best of luck with the award!
Emily // April 27, 2009 at 4:22 am |
I very very much appreciate the work you do. Texas needs more groups and individuals like you, working to change unjust laws. And thank you for introducing me to some online tools I can use for my work on other social change issues.
I support you!
Alice Auch/Sarliba // April 27, 2009 at 5:14 am |
good job—we need to get rid of the death penalty.
Matthew // April 27, 2009 at 5:24 am |
It will be a righteous day when Texas abolishes the death penalty.
Amy // April 27, 2009 at 5:51 am |
Texas friends and allies is doing such important work. Their efforts should be supported. The criminal justice system in Texas is far and away the worst in the nation. We need all the help we can get.
Jan Rogers // April 27, 2009 at 8:10 am |
The death penalty takes the life of another human being. For those who want the death penalty, they, too, are capable of murder. Murder is taking the life of another on purpose. The death penalty is no accident.
Jan Rogers // April 27, 2009 at 8:13 am |
Is there are difference between the Death Penalty and Murder (taking the life of another on purpose)? The death penalty is no accident.
Sandrine Ageorges-Skinner // April 27, 2009 at 8:47 am |
The culture of legal murder has to stop in Texas, changing the mentalities requires a lot of energy and resources to inform and educate the public so let’s give the movement a helping hand and the money required to achieve abolition asap!
par gustafsson // April 27, 2009 at 9:29 am |
As a european (living in Sweden) it is for me totaly incomprehensible that a civilized (?) country like USA accept rituelized killing called Capital Punishment.
Mmmatze // April 27, 2009 at 9:41 am |
Totally for them. Totally against the death penalty!
Mark Swinton // April 27, 2009 at 9:58 am |
It saddens me that a supposedly advanced and enlightened nation such as the USA is still living in the Dark Ages in its approach to crime and punishment. Capital punishment is no longer an effective deterrent; it has no place in civilised society and should be stopped. I wholeheartedly endorse the work of Texas Moratorium Network as it seeks an end to the death penalty.
Mari // April 27, 2009 at 11:38 am |
I hope they get the money to help stop this nonsense.It makes me wonder that the people in the goverment can sleep knowing that they kill people everyday.
Lucas Bally // April 27, 2009 at 11:55 am |
I support this cause!
Pamela Selwyn // April 27, 2009 at 12:27 pm |
The Texas Anti-Death Penalty group makes impressive use of the web and social networking sites for their important work, giving people in the U.S. and those, like me, who live abroad, both up-to-date information on current death penalty cases and opportunities to intervene effectively in ongoing cases, wherever we may be. They deserve all the appreciation and also the funding they can get to keep up the fight against the immoral, ineffective, racially and socially discriminatory practice of capital punishment!
Ratna Sengupta // April 27, 2009 at 12:39 pm |
The European Union is a clear example of how a civilized society can function better without death penalty. US is way behind!
Let us encourage the US government to abolish this primitive law.
Monica Morton // April 27, 2009 at 12:49 pm |
I am a proud Texan, and proud of TMN and other Texas anti-death penalty groups for the impressive work they do! I hope they win, as I know every dollar will be put to good use.
Russell // April 27, 2009 at 1:04 pm |
I think that what TMN is doing is fantastic. As an American, I want to be able to be proud of what’s going on in my country– I want to be able to be proud of our American system of justice– I can’t be while unreliable punishments like the Death Penalty are used. I can’t be while the system is administered in a racist fashion all over the nation. I applaud the work that TMN is doing and the progress that they are making. They deserve this grant.
Terese Svoboda // April 27, 2009 at 1:08 pm |
Save them!
Big Thanks to the Texas Alliance
Jessie // April 27, 2009 at 1:54 pm |
There is nothing more difficult, and also more important, than organizing against the death penalty in Texas!! These groups do fantastic work against very difficult odds, and they definately deserve to win.
Sonia Santana // April 27, 2009 at 2:15 pm |
I wish you the best of luck in bringing this unjust and barbaric practice to an end.
Texas especially needs the focus.
Kelly // April 27, 2009 at 2:33 pm |
Keep up the great work, TMN!
Lily Hughes // April 27, 2009 at 3:05 pm |
As a member of the Austin, Tx, chapter of the Campaign to End the Death Penalty, I wanted to say how proud I am of the efforts of all us and our allies over the years. We have worked tirelessly against the death penalty here, using many different strategies very effectively. Now our efforts are being to pay off, even here in the “belly of the beast. The work we did around the case of Kenneth Foster Jr., led directly to the current legislation around the Law of Parties. Our protest of the actions of Judge Sharon “Killer” Keller at the Court of Criminal Appeals helped fuel an investigation into her gross misconduct. Death sentences are declining rapidly around the state, especially in Harris County (Houston), which has led in executions for years. We are making a difference! We are using every tool in the kit, including using online media resources to further our cause. Right now, our groups do so much with very little funding. Imagine what we could do with a little more money in our pockets! We will end the death penalty in Texas and everywhere!
Mary Mutch // April 27, 2009 at 5:17 pm |
It is too easy to puniwsh the wrong person in may cases. the death penalty must be aboished or severely limited to avoid killing innocent persons.
Mary Mutch // April 27, 2009 at 5:18 pm |
It is too easy to punish the wrong person in may cases. The death penalty must be abolished or severely limited to avoid killing innocent persons.
William Strickland // April 27, 2009 at 5:43 pm |
Great job in fighting for the abolition of the death penalty!
Melissa // April 27, 2009 at 5:53 pm |
Use of the death penalty is one the most cruel, backward and hypocritical official actions of the United States. It contradicts what we teach our children and what we say we represent in the world: justice, equality, respect, leadership, compassion and more.
We must end this horrendous practice! Abolish the death penalty!
kenneth foster // April 27, 2009 at 6:47 pm |
Please end the death penalty in Texas. This is wrong!!!
kenneth foster // April 27, 2009 at 6:47 pm |
Please end the death penalty in Texas!!!
crystal wilson // April 27, 2009 at 6:50 pm |
The death penalty is dead wrong!!!
Terri Been // April 27, 2009 at 7:16 pm |
I am happy to nominate TMN, TSADP, KADP, Texas Death Penalty Abolition movement, and CEDP for the social leadership media award! These groups work tirelessly to bring about awareness of the INjustices of the Death Penalty. I have seen them on many networks, at marches, rallies, on blogs, TV news stations, youtube, and many other many media sources. Keep up the great work!!!
Anthony R. // April 27, 2009 at 7:29 pm |
please end the death penalty… any margin of error when it comes to life and death is too much!
Christine Camara // April 27, 2009 at 8:59 pm |
Abolish the death penalty!!!!
Chris Darling // April 27, 2009 at 9:24 pm |
The death penalty in Texas must be abolished.
Carissa Bywater // April 27, 2009 at 10:55 pm |
We will continue to use media to educate the masses about the injustices of the Death Penalty!
Cory Bywater // April 27, 2009 at 10:58 pm |
We will work hard, using any means necessary to abolish the death penalty!
Nathan Been // April 27, 2009 at 11:10 pm |
KADP will continue to collaborate with other Anti-death penalty organizations in an effort to bring about the end of the death penalty in Texas…and the rest of the world…and we will accomplish that goal by using technology, and any available media online or otherwise.
Nicholas Been // April 27, 2009 at 11:17 pm |
My uncle Jeff, is factually innocent and on Texas’ death row, and we will continue networking and using facebook, twitter, Amazee, myspace, Ning, youtube, etc to keep the public informed of his case, and other death penalty cases!
Gavin Been // April 27, 2009 at 11:19 pm |
KADP is striving to make a positive difference in the lives of all of those that face INjustice, and we will use any and all means necessary to make that happen!
Debbie Russell // April 27, 2009 at 11:21 pm |
Support Abolish the Death Penalty in TX! They have been extraordinarily effective in shifting the debate — without all their collective efforts, the mere mention of “abolition” would still incur laughing and rolling eyes. Now it’s really a viable option on the table!
Paige Wood // April 27, 2009 at 11:21 pm |
These organizations have been vital in helping my family expose the injustice that is happening to my father, Jeff Wood.
They have been a blessing and I would like to nominate them for this award!
Tanner Tucker // April 27, 2009 at 11:26 pm |
We Use any means available o deliver the anti-death penalty message!!!
Deanna Nickell // April 27, 2009 at 11:27 pm |
This money would really help us save lives. KADP board member.
Tracy Medberry // April 27, 2009 at 11:44 pm |
I agree with Alison, Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty could really use the money. If you haven’t noticed from statements in the media on those such as “Dr. Death”, Zane Sullivan, Ronald Mock there have been many many prominent people in the Texas Judicial System, who have made egregious errors. When a person is put in prison for decades only to find through God’s Grace and DNA evidence that they are innocent, that is not a simple oops that can be fixed with a bus ticket home. There needs to be real solutions in this State.
Susan Brown // April 28, 2009 at 12:42 am |
I’m happy to support the Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty whenever I can. A deserving cause–go tell it on the mountain!
Gregory Gerhardt // April 28, 2009 at 12:54 am |
There are very people that use social media as systematically and successfully as Scott and his group does! Fundraising, promotion, collaboration – they’re social media experts and doing a great job for their cause: Abolishing the death penalty. All my support!
Cynthia A. Douglas // April 28, 2009 at 1:45 am |
Keep up the good work Scott!
Kathleen Folwell // April 28, 2009 at 2:47 am |
Thanks for making us part of the effort to end the death penalty! You are showing us how to organize using new tools effectively.
Arvella Johnson // April 28, 2009 at 3:04 am |
If Sharon Keller is not dependable enough to do the job she was hired to do, then she must be impeached!
Tiina Virtanen // April 28, 2009 at 5:37 am |
There should be no death penalty because it’s inhumane. Society should not stoop down to murder itself. Free Mike Perry from Polunsky Unit in Texas. He doesn’t belong there at all!
anne-marie SPIES // April 28, 2009 at 5:39 am |
I’m a French member of an ACAT (action by christians for the abolition of torture and capital punishment) group and we’ve had a penpal on Texas deathrow for nearly 10 years. I wish to express my heartfelt thanks for the tremendous job you’re doing. I pray that one day we’ll see the light at the end of this dark tunnel. Yours in this fight
Christian Hoeckmann // April 28, 2009 at 5:52 am |
Hello Texans,
I appreciate how Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty Abolition Movement works against the death penalty. I am glad that Western Germany abolished the death penalty in May, 23 th 1949 and Eastern Germany in Oct., 3rd 1990. One day and I hope it will be soon, Texas also will abolish. New Mexico gave hope to me.
Caroline Vasquez // April 28, 2009 at 6:25 am |
The Coalition is doing an excellent job to help end these barbaric practices in Texas and everywhere else, educating the public and advocating to ensure justice and a Humane approach to the law. Congratulations and count on my support!
sinje moll - lebens // April 28, 2009 at 7:40 am |
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere”. – Martin Luther King, Jr.
it REALLY is time to stop it!
markus // April 28, 2009 at 7:48 am |
please get rid of the death penalty.
someone from Old Europe // April 28, 2009 at 8:00 am |
Hats off to Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty for your commitment! Respect!
Bren Donoghue // April 28, 2009 at 8:15 am |
Abolish all countries’ death penalties!
Abolish racist death penalties!
Just do the right thing and abolish ALL death penalties!
We are just human beings.
We are NOT GOD!!!!!
sandie // April 28, 2009 at 10:45 am |
Great work going on here. Change is on its way
Britta // April 28, 2009 at 10:54 am |
I really admire the work of the “Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty”.
Scott Cobb is doing an incredible job.
Britta
Paula Schramm // April 28, 2009 at 11:27 am |
I am so grateful to these organizations for working against the death penalty right in the state where it has been used the most, Texas. Their work has enabled me to use my voice along with so many others in the noble cause of ending the death penalty. They deserve this prize to help them in keeping up their good work.
CLK // April 28, 2009 at 12:26 pm |
TMN is doing a good job.
Stefanie Collins // April 28, 2009 at 1:05 pm |
Lets abolish the death penalty in Texas. Free Rodney Reed, an innocent man who should not be waiting to die for a crime he did not commit — http://www.freerodneyreed.org.
Guillot Francine // April 28, 2009 at 1:24 pm |
My french friends and I support your death penalty abolition movement as it is very useful.
Paul Goldstein // April 28, 2009 at 1:39 pm |
The ultimate irony of the death penalty – aside from its extreme, irreversible, and archaic nature – is that the State attempts to demonstrate that killing is wrong, by killing.
Danielle // April 28, 2009 at 4:46 pm |
Very impressive, indeed!! There is LOTS to do in Texas and they have been going strong for years!
Dorice E. Jones // April 28, 2009 at 4:48 pm |
I hope my comment will help in the effort to abolish the death penalty everywhere in the U.S., but especially in Texas where execution appears to be the ultimate penalty of choice.
Franck Zanni // April 28, 2009 at 5:13 pm |
“There is no crueler tyranny than that which is perpetrated under the shield of law and in the name of justice.”
- Montesquieu, French philopher and thinker
M. O'Brien // April 28, 2009 at 5:15 pm |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty, thank you for all our good work and commitment to end the death penalty.
Christy Armell // April 28, 2009 at 6:33 pm |
Abolish the death penalty now! Show the world that the death penalty is not good public policy!
Faith Peeples // April 28, 2009 at 7:31 pm |
i support these people wholeheartedly. we must get rid of the death penalty, a penalty which is torture pure and simple.
Mark B // April 28, 2009 at 9:09 pm |
These groups are doing a fantastic job! I saw them at the capitol in Austin yesterday and one of them had a laptop to update their friends online about what they were doing while they were lobbying against the death penalty.
Danny Wood // April 28, 2009 at 9:14 pm |
Texas friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty is compromised of several groups who have been instrumental in helping my son, Jeffrey Wood. My son is ALIVE to fight another day because of this group of organizations and their social and media connections. They are highly deserving of this award, and I hope they win it, because it will be put to good use!
Mitzie Wood // April 28, 2009 at 9:18 pm |
These groups are a gift to our family, sent by God! The media attention and support brought to us by these groups has been instrumental in the fight for not only our son, Jeff Wood, but for all who facce execution in Texas and throughout the United States.
Rosemary Ray // April 28, 2009 at 9:21 pm |
Social actions brought about by these groups media connections has given us an opportunity to challenge the wrongful conviction of my grandson, Jeff Wood.
I am happy to reccommend them for this award because I know that the money will be wisely spent on fighting the racist, anti-poor death penalty.
Lenton Ray // April 28, 2009 at 9:22 pm |
God bless these groups who give of their time freely to make Texas and the world a better place; They have certainly made our lives better!!!
Joel Wood // April 28, 2009 at 9:30 pm |
Media and the actions brought about by TMN, KADP, SADP, TSADP, CEDP, and Texas Death Penalty Abolition Movement have saved my brother’s life. I am very grateful and thusly I have made it a point to therefore speak out on their behalf, since they have shown me and my family great kindness.
Please, award the leadership award to the Texas Friends and Aliies group; they are deserving of the award, and will use the money to benefit all those who are oppressed by the Texas INjustice system.
Melissa Wood // April 28, 2009 at 9:31 pm |
My brother-in-law, Jeff Wood, still faces execution for a murder he did NOT commit, and by helping these groups, you are in turn helping out our family.
Jonathan Wood // April 28, 2009 at 9:34 pm |
We are blessed because we know the groups involved in the Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty. We have been helped by their generosity, and by their knowledge of social media tools!
Amanda M. // April 28, 2009 at 10:24 pm |
Thank you for your efforts!
Micki Dickoff // April 28, 2009 at 10:24 pm |
Thank you for your important work. Killing is never the answer!
Bob Westal // April 28, 2009 at 10:26 pm |
Good luck abolishing the death penalty in Texas. This needs to end.
DJH // April 28, 2009 at 10:26 pm |
Good luck. Hope you win.
C Vasquez // April 28, 2009 at 10:29 pm |
Via Facebook, I have invited people to become engaged and participate the anti-death penalty movement where they felt they weren’t previously making a difference. When I get broadcasts from TMN asking me to make a call or send an email, it makes me present to the fact that my one communication really is a matter of life and death and what if I didn’t do it? That I could not live with. So, thank you TMN for allowing this New York Yankee to make a difference everywhere about a cause that’s so important to me.
Ami Pilon // April 28, 2009 at 10:30 pm |
This group is working so hard to end the death penalty and has made me and many others aware of the horrid Texas law of Parties. This must be stopped.
Emily Maloney // April 28, 2009 at 10:31 pm |
It is long since the time that we join the other
developed countries, abolish the death penalty,
and stop this state-sanctioned killing of our
people!
Annelies Moeser // April 28, 2009 at 10:32 pm |
We want to be a light shining on the hill but the death penalty is a barbaric contradiction to the ideals we are striving for. Abolish the death penalty NOW! Thanks to TMN for leveraging all possible media in this campaign.
M.Azzopardi // April 28, 2009 at 10:32 pm |
Keep up the good work..God bless you all and all your efforts.The death penalty and law of parties has to go!!
Annette // April 28, 2009 at 10:33 pm |
Such great work being done to help change the mindset of a state that is otherwise known for their multiple and quick death penalty cases. Your work is inspiring!!
Melanie // April 28, 2009 at 10:34 pm |
great work at the Texas Leg last night (late into the night!). you guys are tireless and deserve all the financial help you can get.
Mu'ina Arthur // April 28, 2009 at 10:36 pm |
May the money representing the energy put out by the Texas Friends &
Allies Against the Death Penalty spread alllll over this planet. To end death as a penalty is to finally put together Peace on Earth. Come On!!!
Evolve!!!
A. Rodd // April 28, 2009 at 10:37 pm |
Great work! Please continue supporting the most basic of human rights – the right to life.
The death penalty is indefensible, not only because it is morally abhorrent in itself, but because of the possiblity of putting an innocent person to death. There is no place for cruel revenge in a civilised society.
Ric Young // April 28, 2009 at 10:41 pm |
I do not agree with the Death Penalty.
Alma // April 28, 2009 at 10:42 pm |
Having a racist government we cannot expect justice when a person is sent to die. Most of the inmates in the death row are African American or Latinos. The death penalty is no more than a legal execution or lynching!!!
Lisa Stapleton // April 28, 2009 at 10:45 pm |
I vote for the Texas Friends and Allies Against the death penalty.
Lisa
Gaia // April 28, 2009 at 10:45 pm |
these people are doing a great and important job
c. chan // April 28, 2009 at 10:47 pm |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty has done great work drawing attention to the unconscionable and corrupt capital punishment system in Texas. I wish them continued success in their efforts and hope they can inspire similar movements across the country.
Lisa // April 28, 2009 at 10:51 pm |
The law of parties is a fundamentally flawed law and I am so glad such a brave and efficient organization is working to change it. Kudos!
Cris Smothers // April 28, 2009 at 10:55 pm |
“Thou shall not kill”… Period! Abolish the death penalty. I believe the death penalty is immoral. It also does not give us enough time to realize if a man or woman is innocent. Innocent people are being put to death. We need to put pressure on Texas and Georgia and make sure they know we are watching them.
Marian Grebanier // April 28, 2009 at 11:00 pm |
I am extremely impressed with the extensive use of social media and networks via the internet that this organization has used. Keep up the good work!
L Sandek // April 28, 2009 at 11:10 pm |
An extraordinary effort furthering a most desirable purpose.
Jason // April 28, 2009 at 11:14 pm |
End the death penalty!
chris willes // April 28, 2009 at 11:15 pm |
Keep fighting for the abolishment of the death penalty!
Beti Harris // April 28, 2009 at 11:15 pm |
I totally oppose the death penalty because it is racist and shewed toward people of color and individuals that are poor. It must end thoroughout the US and around the world.
Paul // April 28, 2009 at 11:25 pm |
Death penalty must be stopped.
Amy Jo Harzke // April 28, 2009 at 11:26 pm |
Rock on, Texas Moratorium Network!
Hope y’all win the prize
Gerard Walsh // April 28, 2009 at 11:34 pm |
As a British person and also like many Americans I find the whole idea of the death penalty abhorrent. They say killing is wrong, so why do they do it themselves? A simple question really. Could they execute (murder) their own relatives if they had committed a capital offence? I wish they would move into the 21st century. Good luck to all you Texans and Americans – keep up the good work.
Danilo Udovicki // April 28, 2009 at 11:49 pm |
Death penalty is a dishonor to our civilization. It’s organized and coldly planned murder.
This Texas organization has been working in particularly difficult circumstances, given the general attitude of the public in this state.
An award would be more than deserved, and would energize the struggle.
Lucha // April 28, 2009 at 11:54 pm |
That these organizations work together so well–that is why they are making gains in the worst state in the country when it comes to executions.
chita // April 28, 2009 at 11:56 pm |
Great job TMN, CEDP, TDPAM, KADP, and TSADP! We’re going to win!
Joaquina Rodriguez // April 28, 2009 at 11:57 pm |
Keep up the fight!
Rev. Alice Harper-Jones // April 29, 2009 at 12:01 am |
I applaud your efforts to end the Death Penalty in Texas. The God who creates life is alive today and has not authorized any organization to take anyone’s life. The death penalty is morally wrong and must be prohibited thoughout this Nation -a land of freedom for all.
Gloria Isaac Salazar // April 29, 2009 at 12:08 am |
I truly pray that this group wins because it is true, Texas is by far the worse state with death penalty. Legislatures need to come outside their little world and see what this law does to a family. My son is in prison under this law, and I sincerely hope and pray that things go well for this group, much blessings to all of you in this group.
KIM MCINTOSH // April 29, 2009 at 12:14 am |
Time for the U.S. to catch up with other reasonable nations and do away with such inhumane policies as the death penalty. Hooray for Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty. Thanks for your hard work!
Mary Leyendecker // April 29, 2009 at 12:25 am |
“Action is the foundational key to success.” PABLO PICASSO
Please tell your people about this site. Thanks for taking action today.
Luanne Miller // April 29, 2009 at 12:41 am |
The Texas Moratorium Network with our help will eventually get rid of the Death Penalty in TX.
Susannah Miller // April 29, 2009 at 12:52 am |
Keep up the great work!
pat justice // April 29, 2009 at 12:56 am |
You do good work and I appreciate your efforts to end the death penalty. Here in Dallas many people have been found to be innocent after serving years and years in prison. That fact alone is enough incentive to put an end to the death penalty.
Debra L. Diegoli // April 29, 2009 at 1:09 am |
These folks have done a great job of using various media to keep both local activitists and people like me (who live across the country) involved and informed.
We must join the rest of the “civilized” world and abolish the death penatly, the ultimate cruel and unusual punishment.
Rosie Cimino // April 29, 2009 at 1:23 am |
These guys rock…I thank them for their efforts to stop innocent people being put to death.
storey sessions // April 29, 2009 at 1:33 am |
The time to stop the death penalty in Texas is NOW!! Thank you for all of the hard work.
Claire // April 29, 2009 at 1:36 am |
A very important cause to be supported. Clearly, they have used a wide array of social networking technologies to further the cause. They deserve the award.
Phyllis Anne Nolan // April 29, 2009 at 1:39 am |
This country’s values and ideals are too noble to permit us to continue making use of the death penalty. I applaud all those persons who give of their time and energy to raise consciousness of this fact and move us towards a more just and human society!
Shawna Lucey // April 29, 2009 at 1:41 am |
This organization makes me proud to be a Texan. We will end the death penalty.
Allen Ansevin // April 29, 2009 at 2:00 am |
The Texas Coalition … is a well established organization working hard to bring a more humane legal process to Texas. I’m delighted that they now extend this effort to social networking.
Winnie // April 29, 2009 at 2:00 am |
Thanks for all the good work you do for the cause… we WILL win, it’s just a matter of persistence and perseverance.
Claire-France Perez // April 29, 2009 at 2:02 am |
As a collective, when we halt the powers of life and death over our own citizens, we will advance the cause for justice. “An eye for an eye,” is not the greatest wisdom at all. We need to leave the power of death to an order much higher than our own. A Death Penalty belongs to a barbarian age, in the town square where the hangings took place. Let us evolve into a society guided better by humility as a function of justice.
Nancy Hyde // April 29, 2009 at 2:02 am |
The TX Moratorium is doing great work. Keep it up. ABOLISH the DEATH PENALTY FOR ALL!
Steve Glusker // April 29, 2009 at 2:23 am |
I admire the work of this group and their skillful use of the internet and other media. they are an inspiration to others in death penalty states.
Siamak Vossoughi // April 29, 2009 at 2:24 am |
I believe this organization is doing a great service in trying to rid the legal system of the inhumane practice of state-sanctioned killing.
Monica // April 29, 2009 at 2:28 am |
This is an excellent organization worthy of the social media leadership award. I would not be nearly as well-informed about this issue I care about without their innovative and timely media outreach.
Brendan O'Malley // April 29, 2009 at 2:28 am |
I applaud your efforts to make the Texas justice system a humane one. No-one should have the power of life or death over another person. The law of parties is a clear example of how easily things can go wrong when a beauracracy decides who lives and who dies.
Susan Peters // April 29, 2009 at 2:31 am |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty has taken up a cause we all need to be fighting for. There is no logic or humanity in a policy that kills people to show that killing people is wrong.
Sam // April 29, 2009 at 2:39 am |
Stop the Death Penalty.
Terri English // April 29, 2009 at 2:46 am |
The struggle to end the death penalty in Texas deserves all the funding it can get!
Sallie Baker // April 29, 2009 at 2:56 am |
Thanks for all your hard work to end the death penalty in Texas. As a native of Waco, I yearn to see the day when this brutal practice is ended.
Faith Chatham // April 29, 2009 at 3:12 am |
Texas Death Penalty Abolition movement deserves the award. They utilize social networking effectively to communicate with members and to discover others who share a passion for ending a practice that relies on a flawed justice system.
Enella Walters // April 29, 2009 at 3:17 am |
Good for them. Abolish the Death Penalty.
k. higgins // April 29, 2009 at 3:48 am |
this groups does such excellent work. here’s to hoping that in this century, America will see the light!
Mark S. Tucker // April 29, 2009 at 3:52 am |
I publish the loosely anarcho-syndicalist Veritas Vampirus newsletter, and somehow someone in the Texas Moratorium Network got ahold of an issue and started sending me info, assuming we might be in solidarity. They couldn’t have been more prescient. It was the right move at the right time, as I was becoming intensely concerned with the welter of shenanigans revolving around the death penalty. Kudos for their aggressively ethical work, and I join the chorus heralding their necessity in the American political landscape.
Frances Morey // April 29, 2009 at 4:02 am |
I had to work all day Monday and Tuesday but my thoughts and prayers were with you in this important cause. I have a copy of “Mortal Justice” to give to one of the legislators if you can think of which one to suggest. Thank you, Scott, for all that you do.
Korey Darling // April 29, 2009 at 4:06 am |
Thank you for all your hard work toward abolishing the death penalty here in Texas.
Manon // April 29, 2009 at 4:39 am |
Keep up the good work!
Greetings, Manon
The Netherlands
Don Dola // April 29, 2009 at 5:01 am |
It is high time this outdated form of revenge is being terminated. Thank you for your gorgeous work.
scott // April 29, 2009 at 5:02 am |
I hope you guys can really do something to stop the cruel and unusual death penalty
Ingrid Gassner // April 29, 2009 at 5:03 am |
Thank all of you for doing such a wonderful job! The Death Penalty has no place in modern-day society. PEACE
Valerie B. Carey // April 29, 2009 at 5:03 am |
End the death penalty!
sarah // April 29, 2009 at 5:15 am |
down with the death penalty!
Tony Sheffield // April 29, 2009 at 5:36 am |
The barbaric death penalty should be confined to history where it belongs.
Hooman Hedayati // April 29, 2009 at 5:55 am |
TMN and SADP have done a great job using online media for organizing. I vote for these groups in the Jenzabar Social Media Leadership Award
Matthew // April 29, 2009 at 6:04 am |
Let’s hope we can abolish the death penalty in Texas!
Jeremy T // April 29, 2009 at 6:17 am |
End the death penalty – it is cruel and unusual punishment and is only used against the poor.
Joel Hildebrandt // April 29, 2009 at 6:17 am |
Congratulations and thank you to Texas Moratorium on all their hard work to eliminate this barbaric and unjust practice. How many innocent people have “accidentally” been killed? No more!
J. Kirby // April 29, 2009 at 6:24 am |
Abolish the death penalty and the PIC
Mark Everest // April 29, 2009 at 6:27 am |
End this barbaric process that discriminates against the poor NOW.
We in Britain are a civilised country that doesn’t castigate someone for killing and then does exactly the same thing. You are a civilised country so it doesn’t square that your state kills.
Benjamin Gojer // April 29, 2009 at 6:30 am |
I am continuously inspired by the power of this group to bring strangers together and form a community in pursuit of freedom and justice for all. As much as I am troubled by the injustices of the death penalty and the law of parties, I am reassured by the people in this group.
Robert F. Kolbe // April 29, 2009 at 6:38 am |
Is it time our government stopped killing people?
Nick // April 29, 2009 at 6:57 am |
In my mind, the question is not whether or not some people deserve to be executed. It is not whether death or life in prison is more economical. It is whether we really think our legal system is accurate enough to make such a powerful and irrevocable decision. Once someone is dead, there is no going back. Would it be worth killing one innocent person to kill a million guilty people?
erica // April 29, 2009 at 7:08 am |
you`re really doing an amazing work!! Abolish the death penalty!!
Paolo // April 29, 2009 at 7:33 am |
I say NO to Death Penalty!
kamala // April 29, 2009 at 7:43 am |
If we can do it in texas we can do it anywhere (almost) Keep up the good work
Peter Bellamy // April 29, 2009 at 8:02 am |
Brilliant and essential work by all on this nomination
Neil Munro // April 29, 2009 at 8:24 am |
A superb organization with a noble, vital cause.
You have my support and admiration.
(Scotland).
paul blackwood // April 29, 2009 at 8:25 am |
hope you get the award. onwards and upwards
Cindy Hill // April 29, 2009 at 9:37 am |
The State believes there is such thing as “Reasonable Homicide”.
Killing is a crime and a Sin.
Two wrongs DO NOT make a right no matter which side of the fence we sit on.
Atlaoui Sabine // April 29, 2009 at 10:22 am |
ABOLISH THE DEATH PENALTY!!!!
NO MORE EXECUTIONS!!!!
Danielle Allen // April 29, 2009 at 10:45 am |
Abolish the death penalty! It is not a determent!!!!!
Maria Allende // April 29, 2009 at 10:49 am |
Mi más sincero respeto para toda la gente que lucha contra la pena de muerte en Texas. Toda mi solidaridad y apoyo para acabar con una de las formas más evidentes de injusticia social.
Maggie Dostal // April 29, 2009 at 11:19 am |
This is such an important issue- ending the death penalty in Texas. All the ways this is being communicated is impressive!!
Sara // April 29, 2009 at 11:51 am |
I am all the way in New York, but the social media used by TMN lets me stay aware of what is going on within the most notorious state for executions. I often pass the information to others, such as a high school teacher who does a yearly unit on the death penalty in conjunction with certain literature that the ninth graders read from ancient times. I hope Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty will get the recognition they deserve so that they can continue to not only monitor but have an impact on the situation. In many ways, their work sets an example for people in other places.
Deb // April 29, 2009 at 12:13 pm |
We need to abolish the death-penalty. It is applied with so much racial bias-it is beyond sickening.
It is nothing but state sponsored execution-and it is horrifc. It does not function on any level as a deterrent. It is positively useless.
It is time for the death-penalty to go the way of the dinosaur. Let’s make this happen in our lifetime!
jasmine udovicki // April 29, 2009 at 12:15 pm |
This important grassroots group fighting a disgraceful and unjust law of the parties should be hailed for its energetic outreach and its sustained effort to make Texas more just. Do we really want to live in a world where a law such as the law of the parties is in force? The law is antithetical to the very spirit of this nation. Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty fight death penalty as such, and fight against this particular law. We should reward them, and thank them.
Kat // April 29, 2009 at 12:17 pm |
The death penalty is a massive public policy failure and should be abolished.
Eric Elliott // April 29, 2009 at 12:38 pm |
Today Texas, tomorrow California, then the entire United States, then we work to change the hearts of politicians in China, Saudi Arabia, and the rest of the countries which still have the death penalty.
Jamie // April 29, 2009 at 1:16 pm |
Execution is not necessary for justice or for the protection of society. All justice systems are subject to human error and human frailty. The death penalty should be abolished from every state in the United States and from the world. The United States will never be a leader in human rights until homicide by the state is abolished in every state.
Colin // April 29, 2009 at 1:17 pm |
Very much in support of your work. Keep up the pressure!
karen // April 29, 2009 at 1:52 pm |
without these groups fighting there would be no bills in the legislature to abolish the law of parties and Sharon “killer” Keller would not be facing impeachment. The work these groups do, specifically the CEDP is amazing and making a difference!
jebuff // April 29, 2009 at 1:52 pm |
Great job! Keep up the fight.
Julia // April 29, 2009 at 1:52 pm |
no more death penalty!
Janet Alder // April 29, 2009 at 1:58 pm |
Abolish the death penalty the future of everyone is at stake!! Those that make the Laws have loved ones who are also capable of breaking them. They never know the future of one of their own could be affected !!!
Claude van Lingen // April 29, 2009 at 1:59 pm |
Too many innocent people have been executed. In any event it is a barbaric practice and must be stopped.
Dolores Trevino Gerber // April 29, 2009 at 2:17 pm |
I used to believe in the death penalty. I was wrong. It is now time to get Texas to realize the death penalty is wrong! Thanks to TMN and other groups like them, the death penalty will be abolished in Texas!
Jaime Shimkus // April 29, 2009 at 2:28 pm |
The groups in this alliance are doing amazing work — making measurable progress on saving individual death row inmates, changing the laws and systems that unjustly condemn people — and I have no doubt that they will succeed in abolishing the death penalty in Texas. One key to their success is raising awareness and educating the public about these issues through every means available, including intensive use of social media. This group deserves to win the Jenzabar Foundation award!
carol ann hunt // April 29, 2009 at 2:40 pm |
Keep up the good works. We must rid our great state of the death penalty.
Karl // April 29, 2009 at 2:51 pm |
As George Bernard Shaw wrote: “Murder and capital punishment are not opposites that cancel one another, but similars that breed their kind.”
Sheila Tucker // April 29, 2009 at 2:54 pm |
The death penalty demeans us all as human beings. And Texas is way too cavalier about sentencing people to death. At least one person who has been executed there was exonerated later by DNA. With lawyers sleeping court, you know there’s got to be more. Kudos to TMN for all their work toward stopping it.
Alison Dieter // April 29, 2009 at 3:06 pm |
Texas Friends and allies against the death penalty can use some funding. We use our own $$ for everything.
Lois Kerschen // April 29, 2009 at 3:10 pm |
As a member of the Consistent Life Ethic, I support your efforts to abolish the death penalty.
Rose Gansle // April 29, 2009 at 3:11 pm |
Thank you for your dedication and perseverance in working against the death penalty. Violence is not solved by more violence.
J.B Lyke // April 29, 2009 at 3:19 pm |
Keep up the very good work. Texas Friends will use the award for good use.
Michele Queyroy // April 29, 2009 at 3:35 pm |
Great job from Texas Friends and Allies against the DP!
Keep the actions going until the barbaric, unfair, costly and useless DP way to render justice be no more.
Sharon Wilson // April 29, 2009 at 3:45 pm |
Thank you Texas Friends and allies against the death penalty! I am heavily involved in a different fight but this one matters to me a great deal and I support you when and where I can.
PaulS // April 29, 2009 at 3:52 pm |
Keep pushing, keep educating, keep persuading.
Emilie J. Olivares // April 29, 2009 at 4:01 pm |
To make a change for the better, we have to work together. This coalition of persons against the death penalty is making a difference. As I read through the comments, I feel energized with the knowledge that there are many people working for the same cause. This is a great way to communicate and empower each other! We shall overcome!
Audrey Lamm // April 29, 2009 at 4:03 pm |
The work you do is so important! Texas needs you!
Matthew // April 29, 2009 at 4:09 pm |
Abolish the death penalty!
Oscar // April 29, 2009 at 4:13 pm |
Lots of good, valuable information here. Congratulations to KADP.
cmichel // April 29, 2009 at 4:15 pm |
I wish all of these groups could get funding!
David Winsett // April 29, 2009 at 4:20 pm |
Words cannot express how hard this group has worked to change this unjust law. Through the media as well as through the public. Keep up the Fantabulous work you guys, your fight has not gone unseen and will be rewarded.
Simeon // April 29, 2009 at 4:29 pm |
Keep it up. Eventually the wall has to come down!
Kevin Ascher // April 29, 2009 at 4:30 pm |
I hereby show my solidarity with Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty. While I’m not a resident of Texas, I fully support the goals of this group. Kudos to everything they’ve done. If it’s wrong for an individual to kill another individual on purpose, it’s wrong for the state to do so as well. Abolish the death penalty!
Mary Mutch // April 29, 2009 at 4:31 pm |
Too many mistakes are made with the death penalty. Once someone is dead, it’s too late to practice justice if it is later discovered that he of she was indeed innocent.
Bobbie Ogletree // April 29, 2009 at 4:49 pm |
I applaud you for your great work! The death penalty is cruel and archaic. May it be abolished everywhere.
DC Tedrow // April 29, 2009 at 4:55 pm |
I agree with Scott and everyone else here — the abolitionist movement in Texas has been pretty innovative with web technology, and right now we need all the support we can get to strike down the abusive Law of Parties.
Myriam Stubbe // April 29, 2009 at 5:06 pm |
death penalty is an attavistic regression to barbary. an execution is a slap in the face of humanity.
death penalty is not deterrent, it can never be justified and there’s no mitigating evidences for a State that allows itself to be a serial killer…
DP is a shame and an horror
steveingham // April 29, 2009 at 5:07 pm |
I come from Virginia, which is second only to Texas in the total number of people executed since 1976. If Texans can succeed in abolishing the death penalty, a great precedent would be set for the rest of America.
JE Harris // April 29, 2009 at 5:21 pm |
Way to go forming this Coalition to fight against the death penalty. Keep up the great work. We will prevail. Killing people is not ever an acceptable answer for any thing.
Stinky McStinkheimer // April 29, 2009 at 5:23 pm |
Let him who is without sin, cast the first stone. If you love your neighbors, and love God, you will protect those neighbors even if you have to “sell your cloak to buy a short sword” (as Jesus instructed when sending his disciples down a dangerous road) You don’t need to KILL a horrible criminal to protect your neighbors nowadays. You can simply get the state to lock them up forever.
Mike5000 // April 29, 2009 at 5:38 pm |
Thank you for helping to bring civilization to this great nation.
annie valentine // April 29, 2009 at 5:46 pm |
Abolish the death penalty!
Maggie // April 29, 2009 at 5:49 pm |
Way to go! This group deserves to win the prize for soldiering on in the fight for a moratorium, and for doing it in such a media-savvy way.
Gerrit B. // April 29, 2009 at 5:54 pm |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty!
Support them! Death penalty is barbary and has to be quit.
Tracy Shubitz // April 29, 2009 at 5:56 pm |
Thank you Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty for all of your innovative uses of media to raise awareness and gain the public’s support. Your work is important, and I support your cause. Moratorium NOW!
Jules // April 29, 2009 at 6:04 pm |
no to the racist death penalty! reparations for all those who were wrongfully convicted!
Clay G // April 29, 2009 at 6:06 pm |
Anything to stop the death penalty!
Mormegil // April 29, 2009 at 6:13 pm |
prison for life
Mary Sullivan // April 29, 2009 at 6:19 pm |
Go Texas Moratorium! We must end this inhumane punishment.
Page Hamilton // April 29, 2009 at 6:27 pm |
I agree, abolish the death penalty now.
alison bruce UK // April 29, 2009 at 6:36 pm |
Please END the barbaric DEATH PENALTY. Texas executed my brother Frank Moore on 21st Jan 2009. It is unthinkable and inhumane.
Jen C. // April 29, 2009 at 6:44 pm |
I support the Texas allies. They do amazing work!
Aryan Hedayati // April 29, 2009 at 6:54 pm |
I’ve known these organizations and participated in several of their events. They have done a great job organizing online media and I was actually recruited to their group through facebook.
I’ll vote for them.
Courtney Watson // April 29, 2009 at 7:53 pm |
We must abolish this practice. The judicial system is not foolproof and too many innocent people are put to death. We must stop this heinous piece of our culture.
Mtarom // April 29, 2009 at 7:55 pm |
Please support Texas to abolish the death penalty now!
Joy // April 29, 2009 at 7:57 pm |
Using all of these tools to fight fo such a righteous cause… just amazing. Keep up the great work, guys!
Olivia Healy // April 29, 2009 at 8:19 pm |
Amazing work!
Eric // April 29, 2009 at 8:32 pm |
What this group is able to accomplish on pennies is a great testament to how far drive and enginuity can propel those whom are willing to put in the blood, sweat and tears. I know these wonderful people have and will continue to go to great lengths to preserve the Human cause.
Sherrlyn Borkgren Photography // April 29, 2009 at 8:34 pm |
Sherrlyn Borkgren Photography says…I used to not care then I was assigned to photograph the death of Manolo Coranado. He admitted guilt to the killing over a land issue in Guatemala. He said to me in his last interview…”If I had read what the Bible says, ‘love your enemy, if I had only learned…’” he accepted his death courageously.
Through this young man I learned that everyone deserves a second chance.
My job in this world is to tell the stories through images of those that are in need. I will help however I can http://www.borkgren.com
sally norvell // April 29, 2009 at 8:43 pm |
The good people of Texas who know the difference between right & wrong (and there are more than most of the world believes) need to stand up and be counted! No more apathy, no more “compassion fatigue”, no more tax dollars being spent to oil the killing machine. Just as the USA is now showing the world that we are not all lunatic war-mongers, so shall Texas show the world that there are caring, compassionate, intelligent people there who are willing to stand up and say, “NO MORE!! END THE DEATH PENALTY NOW!!”
Fred Moss // April 29, 2009 at 8:47 pm |
Congratulations to the Texas Moratorium Network for outstanding work against the death penalty. The most important point in my mind about the death penalty is that too many innocent people have gone to their deaths because of it; this fact should cause all people to support the end of the death penalty.
Sandra Haigh // April 29, 2009 at 8:49 pm |
It is important for this state to begin to recognize the inequities inherent in our judicial system and end the death penalty.
John // April 29, 2009 at 9:14 pm |
They have my vote!
Dorothy // April 29, 2009 at 9:17 pm |
Good work for such an important cause.
Luke // April 29, 2009 at 9:44 pm |
amen
“Recompense to no man evil for evil… be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.”
Kristin // April 29, 2009 at 10:31 pm |
I had no idea about the Law of Parties! That’s horrible!
Jan Rogers // April 29, 2009 at 11:13 pm |
Taking the life of another human being can never be the answer to any problem. Put them in prison but give them a job to do while there. As long as they are behind bars, they can’t hurt anyone else. (These people are someone’s child or loved one. Could it be yours some day. Would you still be in favor of the death penalty if they were?) Also, a percentage of those convicted are innocent. How would you want to be treated if that percentage were YOU?
Daniel Williams // April 30, 2009 at 12:14 am |
I have been beyond impressed at the innovation of this organization. They are by far the most tech savy group it has been my honor to work with!
Regina Guidry // April 30, 2009 at 1:09 am |
Thanks to everyone for their determination, faith, strength and courage to do the RIGHT THING! It is wonderful to know so many people who make it their life’s focus to stand up against injustices, knowing that injustice to anyone is a threat to justice for all of us! Thanks to the Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty, a lot more people are aware of this arbitrary and racist form of punishment, a lot more people got involved in fighting it, a lot of people on death row (like my innocent husband Howard Guidry) have HOPE!!!
I am sure you will win the money so you can further your work and every day get another step closer to abolition!! God is happy!!!
http://www.howardguidry.com
John graber // April 30, 2009 at 1:10 am |
Texas, the grain of the universe is against the death penalty! Join us and lets become a more humane and redemptive nation.
Ryan Hassan // April 30, 2009 at 1:30 am |
Great job CEDP! The death penalty is corrupt and punishes the innocent.
Julie McCann // April 30, 2009 at 1:31 am |
Abolition now!
Lynn B. // April 30, 2009 at 2:09 am |
I like the fact that these organizations are taking kids seriously and allowing them to collaborate as well! Go KADP…you are the future!
Ms. Been // April 30, 2009 at 2:11 am |
Please also see http://randyhalprin.net who is also convicted under the law of parties!!!
Susan // April 30, 2009 at 2:44 am |
I am amazed by all the online services that this group is using, no wonder they are so effective. Good luck to them. I am going to recommend to some other groups that I know that they should take a look at the organizing that these Texas groups are conducting.
Radical Reads // April 30, 2009 at 2:45 am |
You all have done some awesome work in Texas, probably one of the hardest states to do abolition work in. Good Luck.
Woody // April 30, 2009 at 3:00 am |
This group is doing valuable work. If we can stop the death penalty in Texas, it will have more effect than in any other state.
Tammy // April 30, 2009 at 3:18 am |
Keep up the hard work …It says alot about all of you who are willing to fight for others and their rights!
Don Dola // April 30, 2009 at 4:35 am |
There has to be put an end to this Medieval form of revenge NOW! Thank you all for your gorgeous work, folks. It is greatly appreciated.
Aldinette Lockett // April 30, 2009 at 7:11 am |
STOP THE DEATH PENALTY UNTIL WE CAN EITHER KNOW THE COMPLETE TRUTH, I.E. WALK ON WATER OR SEE ALL OF REALITY, I.E. WALK ON WATER. STOP THE LAW OF PARTIES, PERIOD.
Francis Berbel // April 30, 2009 at 7:51 am |
They do great work!
E. Pelois-Carpenter // April 30, 2009 at 7:57 am |
Death penalty belongs to middle-ages and is also barbaric act. Not an act of justice but about violence and revenge.. it is legal murder. which is a shame for a so-called democratic country.
This has to end as quicky as possible. Families are also victims and innocent has been killed and will never come back. Death penalty must stop as quickly as possible. That is why i support this work.
A.J. Muhammad // April 30, 2009 at 12:57 pm |
Instead of committing state sanctioned murders, maybe the state of Texas can find a way to provide more resources to the disenfranchised and better education for all.
karen d // April 30, 2009 at 1:43 pm |
no more death penalty!
Carlos Morales // April 30, 2009 at 2:33 pm |
I support all your efforts to abolish the racist and inhuman death penalty.
Mohammad H // April 30, 2009 at 2:48 pm |
I can believe what these all volunteer organizations have accomplished without a paid staff person and budget of a large organization. We have to give credit to their use of online media to make up for that. Keep up the wicked work and please post more Sharon Keller videos on your youtube channel. I can’t wait for her to be removed from office.
Matthew Gossage // April 30, 2009 at 3:07 pm |
The Texas Moratorium Network does great work in the movement to abolish the death penalty in the state where we execute the most people.
Emily Lewis // April 30, 2009 at 3:08 pm |
The Texas Coalition to End the Death Penalty have the side of morality with them in the fight to deinstitutionalize the death penalty. The Coalition members have used the media
with unswerving energy.
DeBorah Pettus // April 30, 2009 at 3:14 pm |
It’s way past time to put an end to these murders. Innocent people are being killed.
I support this cause wholeheartedly.
Will Mittelman // April 30, 2009 at 3:27 pm |
This group does great and important work; they have my vote!
Anna Carlson // April 30, 2009 at 3:38 pm |
Hatred does not end hatred. Violence does not end violence. We must address the causes of social problems like crime rather than adding murder to murder.
Nathan // April 30, 2009 at 3:43 pm |
Great Job so far Texas Friends & Allies!!!
Nathan // April 30, 2009 at 3:44 pm |
The Texas Law of Parties death sentence/judgement is a SICK perversion of justice…
Joanna Vaughn // April 30, 2009 at 3:47 pm |
There are better ways to prevent crime than the socalled deterrent of the death penalty. Texas could and should invest proactively in prevention: promoting emotionally and physically healthy babies, children and families and schools~ and intervention at an early stage, as every Texan killed on death row is a product of our Texas schools, and our Texas prison system–and some are a product of our Texas foster care system.
Dr. F Taylor // April 30, 2009 at 3:49 pm |
The Texas Moratorium Network is
invaluable to the interests of the U.S.
Deniz L. // April 30, 2009 at 4:11 pm |
keep up the good work! we are paying attention here in Houston.
Therese Palmer // April 30, 2009 at 4:18 pm |
This is such important work. You can judge a society by how it treats its most vulnerable members.
Azzurra Siano // April 30, 2009 at 4:30 pm |
Nowadays Texas must prove to be a civilized state. Abolish the death penalty right now!
Eric Miller // April 30, 2009 at 4:43 pm |
The death penalty fosters a society of hate-based revenge that has no place in a democracy.
Msgr Weldon Bowling // April 30, 2009 at 4:43 pm |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty is the leader in the abolishment of the death penalty in Texas. We need to keep up the pressure to undo this ungodly activity. One cannot be anti-abortion and be a proponent of the death penalty. My church is prochoice and against the death penalty.
Michele // April 30, 2009 at 5:01 pm |
Because to die? Never.
Excuse me, but I don’t write English
Rob // April 30, 2009 at 5:07 pm |
These guys are doing great work, and more importantly SAVING LIVES. They’re already close to shutting down the appalling Law Of Parties, that will allow the state to execute someone who had nothing to do with a crime. Let’s hope they can reach their ultimate goal, and abolish the death penalty in Texas.
Far E. // April 30, 2009 at 5:24 pm |
I hope this venture succeeds.
Sonya // April 30, 2009 at 5:59 pm |
I cringe each time I read an alert email hoping to get a stay of execution, pardon, etc. for someone facing an execution. I rejoice when there’s news of exoneration, stays, and changes of attitudes (politicians,lawmakers, people).Receiving emails and reading info on the different websites of Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty keep us informed and allow us the opportunity to be supportive of ideals that matter to us.
Nancy // April 30, 2009 at 6:06 pm |
I would like to nominate for The Jenzabar Foundation Social Media Leadership Award: a group of allied organizations in Texas that have been using social media to effectively work together against the Texas death penalty: Texas Moratorium Network, Texas Death Penalty Abolition Movement, the Austin chapter of Campaign to End the Death Penalty, Texas Students Against the Death Penalty, Kids Against the Death Penalty, Students Against the Death Penalty and the Texas Death Penalty Education and Resource Center. These groups have a cause on Facebook called Abolish the Death Penalty in Texas.
Terttu Kirjavainen // April 30, 2009 at 6:07 pm |
Death penalty is wrong and it must be abolished! TMN is doing great job, I hope they win.
Scott Cobb // April 30, 2009 at 6:21 pm |
This is Scott Cobb from TMN. I am leaving a comment in order to urge people who come here to vote in the Jenzabar Social Media Leadership Award to help stop today’s execution in Texas by making a couple of phone calls. We have spread the word about this on our blog and on Twitter and Facebook, so I am also using this forum.
Last night at around 11 PM, we received a call from one of our sources at the Texas capitol regarding the person set for execution TODAY, April 30, in Texas. We were told that the lawyer for Derrick Johnson presented a report by a doctor to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles that Johnson has mental retardation, but the BPP voted to deny him a stay of execution.
Johnson’s lawyer is taking the request for a stay to federal court, but in the meantime we have been asked to urge people to call Rissie Owens, chair of the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles, and urge her to hold another vote on Johnson’s case and issue a 180 day stay of execution to determine whether Johnson has mental retardation.
International and US law prohibits the execution of people with mental retardation. Johnson is scheduled to be executed TODAY. Our source at the capitol says that several legislators have also spoken with Risse Owens urging her to allow the board to vote again and issue a stay of execution, including State Rep. Terri Hodge, Rep. Senfronia Thompson and Rep. Lon Burnam.
Rissie Owens’ Phone Number in Austin at the BPP is (512) 406-5852
Call Governor Perry and urge him to issue a stay of execution so that Johnson’s mental retardation claim can be evaluated. Gov Perry’s phone number is 512-463-1782.
At this point, making phone calls is the most effective way to get the message to Owens and Perry.
Annye Love // April 30, 2009 at 6:36 pm |
Texas’ track record of executions points up the danger of local power in such important issues. Because of the variations in local biases and attitudes, such life and death decisions should be left in the hands of the Supreme Court for only the most heinous of crimes. Otherwise, the death penalty should be abolished completely at the local level. Efforts should be focused at rehabilitation of prisoners (check out PAR) and at prevention of violence through understanding its causes and intervening in schools and families before kids become criminals.
The abolishion of the death penalty in Texas is a must. Please award this organization the offering as it is working so hard to accomplish just that. Thanks.
John August // April 30, 2009 at 7:27 pm |
I support the Texas Moratorium Network and their leadership to stop the death penalty. They are a very effective organization, more than worthy of recognition for their work.
Sherri Clausell // April 30, 2009 at 7:40 pm |
Remembering Joseph Nichols, Frances Newton and Shaka Sankofa.
Elizabeth H. Sarfaty, M.Ed. // April 30, 2009 at 7:48 pm |
A polite person finally answered the phone at 3:40 today and I made my plea for a ’stay’ for Derrick Johnson for a stay until a proper diagnosis was available – and then begged for an end to the barbarous practice of such death penalty power
from any one wanting to be perceived as human in the 21st Century – PLEASE!!!!
Sherri Clausell // April 30, 2009 at 7:52 pm |
Mother’s Day is coming soon. Consider how many mothers Mr. Rick and Ms. Rissie have
made cry? End the Death Penalty in Texas!
Rik Reynolds // April 30, 2009 at 7:52 pm |
Man’s judgement is often flawed and the death penalty is inequitably applied, resulting in a disproportionate number of poor and racial minorities being executed. A life sentence is a far greater punishment. It is hypocritical for the state to kill those it often unfairly convicts of murder, especially when any crimes below that level of violence draw the death penalty as well. A civilized nation does not murder.
Bret Buell // April 30, 2009 at 8:10 pm |
I salute the Texas Moratorium Network for its work. I work with Rehabilitation Through the Arts, the breakthrough theater program taught in five of New York’s state prisons. I know many men who, should they be in Texas, would be on death row. I cannot express strongly enough what a travesty, what a horror, what a grave societal error, what an unbearable tragedy it would be if any one of those men should have his life snuffed out by the state. Every human life is precious. Even a person deemed “depraved” by the state is valuable. Texas should be spending its money rehabilitating everyone it can, and for those who refuse rehabilitation, Texas should be studying the mind of such an individual. We have something to learn from each person.
The fact that Texas is the execution capital of the world is something Texans should not tolerate. The rest of the civilized world has concluded that execution is not a deterrent to crime. Those few states in this country who are still living by some Old Testament mythology should join the enlightened and end the practice once and for all.
Rachael Ford // April 30, 2009 at 8:33 pm |
As a woman with a husband on Texas death row, and also as the niece of a murder victim I know the complexities of emotion loss and grief inflict. I also acknowledge that by seeking vengeance in a futile attempt to find “closure” we only become caught up in a cycle that never allows them us to truly “live” again. I thank the anti death penalty groups of Texas for the amazing work they do in assisting me in both sides of my experience, in fighting for my husband’s life, the lives of all men and women facing state induced murder, and in allowing me to find a path to honour my aunt’s murder by respecting and fighting for ALL life.
Arvella Johnson // April 30, 2009 at 8:47 pm |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty is made up of people who work tirelessly to end a wrong that we, as Americans, have allowed to continue for far too long. Let’s all do whatever we can to aid them in the fight.
Deborah // April 30, 2009 at 9:47 pm |
TMN is the best resource for what’s happening. Thanks for keeping us informed.
Christian von Malchus // April 30, 2009 at 10:35 pm |
Killing is wrong – executing people means killing them – and so executions are wrong!
Of course every society has a right, and an obligation, to protect itself and it’s citizens from “wrong – doers”, but why kill them? Lock them away if you have to – but don’t execute them. Even the slightest possibility that, at some point, innocent people might get executed should be reason enough to abolish the DP.
We all know for sure that innocent people have been executed – do we want to charge the ones who sentenced them with murder?
Death penalty has never been a deterrent – and never will be. If it was the Texan murder – rate should be practically zero and the European (where there is no DP) should be soaring – this is not the case!
For the sake of humanity; please support this, and all other, campaigns to end the Death Penalty!
God bless you all.
Jennie Chao // April 30, 2009 at 10:46 pm |
After having read some of the comments submitted above, I can only say, “Yes, yes, yes.” The fact that no rich people are on death row makes the idea of the death penalty as a deterrent laughable.
Ashley Thomas // April 30, 2009 at 11:48 pm |
Pro-life is Anti-Death Penalty. Keep up the great work Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty.
Debbie A // May 1, 2009 at 12:15 am |
Lets all get behind this group. Their work is amazing. Stop the Killings.
Austin Dullnig // May 1, 2009 at 1:05 am |
An extremely well-organized coalition of honorable and committed groups and individuals working to preserve the unassailable value of human life. Am I my brother’s keeper? Kudos, and keep up the wonderful hard work!
Phil Temperly // May 1, 2009 at 1:47 am |
I strongly support TMN and Texas Friends and Allies in their efforts to abolish the death penalty.
Naomi Jaffe // May 1, 2009 at 1:48 am |
Your good work against the Death Penalty in Texas is an inspiration and a model for other organizations around the countryworking to change our broken criminal justice system that has put more people in prison than any other nation on earth.
David Darcy // May 1, 2009 at 1:55 am |
People in Texas want their tax money spent on improving their quality of life, not on exorbitant legal fees to execute a handful of criminals.
Mary Sawers // May 1, 2009 at 1:58 am |
I strongly support the work of those against the death penalty in Texas. Keep up the good work.
Mary Sawers // May 1, 2009 at 2:02 am |
I strongly urtge the state auth0rities to postpone Johnson’ s execution until the plea on mental retardation is heard.
David Perry // May 1, 2009 at 2:38 am |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty does fantastic work.
John // May 1, 2009 at 2:40 am |
I received an alert today from TMN about today’s execution. They do a great job keeping us all informed about Texas’ use of the death penalty
Warren Smith // May 1, 2009 at 2:46 am |
I am a WWII veteran and I am against the death penalty. This is a great organization – keep up the good work.
JK // May 1, 2009 at 3:55 am |
An eye for an eye until the whole world is blind… I appreciate the commitment and moral courage of all the fine people here.
Mike // May 1, 2009 at 4:01 am |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty is the leader in the abolishment of the death penalty in Texas. We need to keep up the pressure to undo this ungodly activity.
Jennifer Hall // May 1, 2009 at 7:31 am |
Please stop the death penalty in TX!
Sasan // May 1, 2009 at 5:47 pm |
I vote for this group, because comparing to the other groups listed Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty is an all volunteer organization with a very small budget that can really use and put $3000 into good work. But other groups like Dream Chair or NCADP (Which says they are an national organization with affiliates in all states) most have a annual budget of more than $100,000. I think the money should go to the groups that really need it and in this case I think the Texas groups can use it more affectively to improve their online and on the scene organizing.
Cindy // May 1, 2009 at 7:20 pm |
I first met the people involved in Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty in 2000 when I attended their big march against the death penalty when Bush was still governor. They are the some of the hardest working anti-death penalty organizers. They never give up.
Robert // May 2, 2009 at 2:48 am |
Thanks to everyone in these organizations who have been working against the Law of Parties.
james m nordlund // May 2, 2009 at 4:12 am |
I vote for you, you do a great job
reality
Jeanne Stewart // May 2, 2009 at 5:37 pm |
Good work. Thanks
Joann Shanks // May 2, 2009 at 6:22 pm |
We do not have the right to take someone life Stop the death penalty JoAnn…
Malcolm Ferguson // May 3, 2009 at 7:22 am |
I support this initiative.
Susanne // May 3, 2009 at 11:08 pm |
I read about this group’s nomination on Facebook where I have found out about many of their activities. I hope they get it.
Jan // May 4, 2009 at 2:54 pm |
Thanks in large part to CEDP and the other groups in this effort Kenneth Foster is alive. They are very effective.
Sharon Kassidy // May 5, 2009 at 1:05 am |
What a great idea to recognize small groups that are using social media in their work. This is one group that I know works incredibly hard on a difficult issue down in Texas. They have my support.
Bobby Mudd // May 6, 2009 at 2:17 am |
Texas leads the nation in executions so who better to lead the fight against the death penalty then Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty. The Dixie Chicks were right we need to be ashamed of this state.
Holly // May 6, 2009 at 4:52 am |
Abolish the Death Penalty NOW!
Stacy // May 6, 2009 at 5:56 am |
Kep up the good fight. Our Judicial system is not strong enough and accurate enough to support the death penality.
Remember every defendant has family ! Stop the pain and suffering. Texas only wants to appear tough on crime. However,it’s only shifting pain to others. No one wins in death penality case….No one !
Stacy Fergurson
Tracey // May 6, 2009 at 11:10 am |
Texas (and those other states) need to be dragged (kicking and screaming if we must) into the 21st century with the rest of the modern world to realise that executing people is barbaric.
Patrick Genest // May 6, 2009 at 11:20 am |
Thanks to Scott and his group. Texas must abolish the Death Penality
Sonia Santana // May 6, 2009 at 1:44 pm |
Texas needs the most help. We are the worst offender of basic human rights on the death penalty issue. We have defense attorneys who sleep through their client’s trails. We have DNA labs that are poorly run and many people have now been exonerated. I think we all believe in our gut that an innocent person was probably executed in Texas.
Sharon Wilson // May 6, 2009 at 2:28 pm |
Texas is an embarrassment to the nation! Please help us become more civilized.
Robert Gartner // May 6, 2009 at 2:56 pm |
Texas Friends and Allies against the Death Penalty is a worthy group to receive your award. Texas has the unique reputation for being the nation’s executioner. Innocents have been executed. The practice is barbaric. Please consider them for your award.
Gloria Isaac Salazar // May 6, 2009 at 7:07 pm |
This organization is doing a tremendous job at abolishing the death penalty. Especially here in Texas where we need it the most. May you continue the great job and wish you much success
Ashley Mack // May 6, 2009 at 10:19 pm |
Abolition Now!
Linda Danz // May 6, 2009 at 10:26 pm |
We must work together to end this abomination our country seems to embrace. And after we abolish the death penalty we can’t forget the lives of prisoners who are still incarcerated by an unjust system. We become human when we act on that humanity.
Lynette Bondarchuk // May 6, 2009 at 10:27 pm |
I think TMN is doing great work and definitely deserves this award!
jason harter // May 6, 2009 at 10:31 pm |
no more death penalty!
Samantha Gray // May 6, 2009 at 10:45 pm |
Thanks for all you do! We will fight this one day!
Fabrizio // May 6, 2009 at 10:47 pm |
Death penalty is only a legalized murder. Two injustices do not make a justice.
Jim Lynn // May 6, 2009 at 10:50 pm |
Though Texas shows signs of rejoining humanity there’s still a long way to go. Please support this effort by awarding these vital organizations the $3000 prize.
Rob Lewis // May 6, 2009 at 10:54 pm |
It is time and past time to end the death penalty.
Nikki Marterre // May 6, 2009 at 10:54 pm |
End the death penalty and life in prison!
Kelsey // May 6, 2009 at 10:54 pm |
I kicked my neighbor. As punishment, the government came and kicked me. Makes sense, right?
Bernard Zirnheld // May 6, 2009 at 11:00 pm |
I have followed the work of this organization and participated in its on-line petitions for a couple years now. I dream of the day when not only Texas but all of the United States outlaws this barbarous and socially ineffective form of punishment.
Sasan Taromian // May 6, 2009 at 11:13 pm |
I’m deeply grateful to you and I’ll vote for you and Texas.
Thanks Sasan Taromian
NLWL // May 6, 2009 at 11:13 pm |
You are very couragous to take this stand against this statute. Win or lose, you have raised awareness worldwide and made a difference. Thank you.
Terri Lloyd // May 6, 2009 at 11:15 pm |
The death penalty has never been a crime deterrent, nor has the judicial process behind it been fail safe. A civilized society recognizes this and works toward the cessation of state sanctioned killing.
Jae Hood // May 6, 2009 at 11:18 pm |
Win it all!
Stuart // May 6, 2009 at 11:21 pm |
You are doing us all a critical favor. Especially with mishandled evidence, and lack of due process, the Death Penalty takes away the rights of the innocent.
Hadi Akbari // May 6, 2009 at 11:23 pm |
This is a good turn, keep going.
Thank you.
nancy coyle // May 7, 2009 at 12:37 am |
This group, Texas Friends and Allies against the Death Penalty is a most impressive group. Although I live in IN, I remain on their mailing list by way of support and also to learn of their successes. It gives me hope! Knowing the shame in all executions for all of us Americans it must be particularly hard to be a Texan where most executions take place. Hats off to this group! May you continue to work for LIFE for all.
Ron Rodarte // May 7, 2009 at 1:25 am |
A death penalty is abhorrent to a consciousness of peace. A death penalty is a reminder of the extreme of ignorance at all levels of government and society that sanctions murder as justice. The cycle of violence perpetuated by individuals with pride in the status-quo, who live in a world that has changed on a globally cosmic scale is, quite frankly, ludicrous.
Peggy Anderson // May 7, 2009 at 2:02 am |
How good it would be if Texas no longer bore the stigma of the most executions in the country! Keep on working on this! Taking a life has never been the solution to crime.
Steve Wickham // May 7, 2009 at 2:07 am |
I can’t believe that in this day and age we still need to fight for and end to the death penalty. How many innocent people must die before we realize this is not an effective (or moral) way to penalize law breakers.
And even if they are guilty, what good comes from taking yet another life?
Deborah // May 7, 2009 at 2:27 am |
It is fantastic to see young people getting involved in this valuable and challenging cause. Thank you so much!
chris schmidt // May 7, 2009 at 2:46 am |
Thank you for doing such hard work for such a good cause.
Chris
Mildred Truchard // May 7, 2009 at 2:55 am |
There are so many reasons to abolish the Death Penalty. First of all, God is master of life and death; how can we intefere in God’s plan for moment of death of each human being. Secondly, it is irrational to think that you can teach that killing is wrong by killing. Also the money spent of appeals, etc. associated with the death penalty could be applied to life-giving projects for youth to assist them and preventing their falling into crime. I could go on and on, but since most readers of this site understand, I’ll stop here.
Robert Desmarais Sullivan // May 7, 2009 at 2:57 am |
When the death penalty in Texas is abolished, come to Louisiana to help us do the same. We have released two convicted men over the last five years who were freed by DNA evidence. They missed death by a few months. The possibility of an error is argument enough to prohibit executions.
Kaiya Kershaw // May 7, 2009 at 3:20 am |
Keep up the great work! With God on our side, we will prevail!
Sabrina // May 7, 2009 at 3:21 am |
you guys are doing an incredible job ! We need more than you !!!
Chai Kue // May 7, 2009 at 4:03 am |
I really would like to see this death penalty do away with because it makes everyone very nervous just by passing through never live in Texas or the next state over. I’m from Hope, AR and being so close to TX it makes friends and families very scare to come to AR to visit because of TX Death penalty Law. Their reason for being so scare is that all it takes is to be at the wrong place at the wrong and your dead.
Margie // May 7, 2009 at 4:37 am |
Great job! Maybe this group can lobby the legislature & tell them to add a “Chooose Life ” license plate that says, Choose life -abolish the death penalty. The profits can go to the TCADP & related groups.
sally norvell // May 7, 2009 at 5:32 am |
I want to vote for Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty, because they are a nimble organization that can put the $3000 to work most effectively. Not to mention the fact that Texas is killing at a clip that far outweighs any other state. These guys need all the help they can get. Good luck!!!!!
AnnaEsse // May 7, 2009 at 6:32 am |
Rick Perry, first the wise decision about sovereignty. Now go for abolishing the death penalty. You know it makes sense.
claudio // May 7, 2009 at 6:33 am |
I hope you win the contest. Stop the death penalty!
maria // May 7, 2009 at 6:36 am |
abolish the death penalty.
Clara Blair // May 7, 2009 at 7:21 am |
I have lived and voted in Texas for forty years, and I am outraged that the State continues to kill people in my name. It is wrong. It is irreversible. It does not deter crime. It grieves me that my home state leads our nation in executions. I support any organization that will make it stop. The religious denomination to which I belong has taken a public stance against the death penalty. I applaud the work of Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty.
yoke // May 7, 2009 at 7:34 am |
ABOLISH THE DEATH PENALTY, ONLY GOD GIVE AND TAKES LIFE,
ANITA // May 7, 2009 at 7:36 am |
abolish the death penalty, stop with killing people.
A eye for a eye, makes the WORLD blind !!!!!
jesse bercowetz // May 7, 2009 at 7:37 am |
thank you for keeping me informed via your web mail. it has been a great inspiration to get involved and have a voice. great work !
Neli Busch // May 7, 2009 at 8:08 am |
I strongly support Texas friends and allies against the death penalty!
Thank you for what you do!
Neli, France
Koramwat // May 7, 2009 at 8:25 am |
Abolish the law of partie in Texas, abolish the death penality !!!
Richard le Masson // May 7, 2009 at 8:49 am |
The Texas Moratorium Network does great work in the movement to abolish the death penalty in the state where we execute the most people.
Melissa Freeman // May 7, 2009 at 8:53 am |
Bravo Texas Friends and Allies against the Death Penalty, Shine on! Your positive actions and energy have been extremely effective in generating tremendous support to one day achieve the goal of abolishing the death penalty in Texas. Let not one more human being suffer from the Dark-Age practice of government-sponsored murder! So in keeping the Light on, we again mount a massive protest against a possible 200th Texas execution.
Jane // May 7, 2009 at 9:46 am |
It is a sad indictment of American society that the death penalty still exists and continues to be used to often. Your work to abolish it is truly inspirational and respected around the world.
William // May 7, 2009 at 11:34 am |
thank you for keeping the fire burning !
David // May 7, 2009 at 11:47 am |
Thanks guys! Your tireless efforts are immensely appreciated!
HJV // May 7, 2009 at 12:05 pm |
Please continue to do all the excellent work you all do to fight the death penalty!!
M. Simon // May 7, 2009 at 12:16 pm |
Texas needs to radically update its penal system, including its zeal to execute anyone and everyone. Thank you to the organizations who are trying to make Texas a more progressive and compassionate state.
JC Dufresne // May 7, 2009 at 12:17 pm |
A just and civilized society does not use the death penalty if for no other reason that society knows that there is no guarantee it will be used only on the guilty.
Rosario Martinez // May 7, 2009 at 12:31 pm |
As a student at the University of Texas, I support the efforts by the Texas Students Against the Death Penalty. They are one of the FEW forces in TEXAS (yes, the whole huge state) that are fighting for justice in a powerful, powerful way. Thank you for all you do.
Elizabeth Stein // May 7, 2009 at 12:38 pm |
Your pioneering work using social media to advance a worthy cause should serve as an example for others. I can’t think of a better way to spend budget money than setting up websites for families who wish to communicate to the rest of the world about their loved ones on death row.
Brian Stull // May 7, 2009 at 1:30 pm |
Great work, folks. Please keep it up. Abolishing the death penalty is one of the most pressing social justice issues of our time.
John O'Leary // May 7, 2009 at 1:52 pm |
Abolish the death penalty now! PLEASE!
Carolyn Kelley // May 7, 2009 at 2:05 pm |
They are working so hard and so innovatively, and there is so much more that needs to be done.
Thank you!
ChristopherFlynn // May 7, 2009 at 2:15 pm |
If it’s wrong to kill people, why do they kill people who kill people? (even if they’re wrongly convicted)…
Kotywon // May 7, 2009 at 2:29 pm |
Good work and good luck!
Betty Carr // May 7, 2009 at 2:55 pm |
The death penalty must be abolished. The Texas Friends and Allies Against The Death Penalty are working tirelessly and effectively to accomplish that long overdue goal in Texas and in our nation.
Connie Gray // May 7, 2009 at 3:33 pm |
The wrongful execution of an innocent person can not be undone! Over 100 people have been released from Death Row for many reasons including INNOCENCE!
Jay Hamburger // May 7, 2009 at 4:40 pm |
TFAADP Rocks!
Peter Levine // May 7, 2009 at 4:41 pm |
I’d like to vote for this coalition, not so much because I agree with its position on the issue (although I do), but because of its durability, its use of several platforms–including old-fashioned off-line methods, and its policy focus.
Jan Heinrichs // May 7, 2009 at 5:19 pm |
Thanks for all your hard work over the years. If HB 2267 is passed tomorrow, that will be a big first step in the right direction of abolishing the death penalty altogether.
Jan Heinrichs // May 7, 2009 at 5:21 pm |
Thanks for all your great work over the years! If HB 2267 passes, it will be a big first step in the right direction of abolishing the death penalty altogether.
c s // May 7, 2009 at 5:33 pm |
keep it up.
Christine Morshedi // May 7, 2009 at 5:39 pm |
Terrible that we still have to be working for ABOLITION after all this time.
W. A. Lesman // May 7, 2009 at 5:41 pm |
Looks like this group is using every technological gizmo out there to advance an important human rights cause. Kudos, and keep up the good work!
Patricia Arnao // May 7, 2009 at 5:52 pm |
End the death penalty
Barbara van Davis // May 7, 2009 at 6:34 pm |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty are fighting for justice and peace. Research has made clear that the death penalty doesn’t prevent murder from being committed–so then why do we kill people? For what purpose do we kill? Research says that we kill people for revenge, even though more harm is done to others in the community by our deed. The death penalty reflects a need for revenge, although most people don’t even know the perpetrator. We don’t allow ourselves to look at a condemned person through the eyes of their child or other loved ones. Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty are working hard on outreach to the rapidly growing social networks online, which is how they reached me. I’m so glad they did. The absence of the death penalty means the absence of barbarity in our system. All other western nations have stopped killing people — why hve we not stopped? Are we so vengeful that we insist on the primitive reward of killing? And what of the hundreds of death row killings that murdered innocent men and women? This has been documented in Illinois, and the is reason why the governor stopped all prisoner deaths. I only wish that the death penalty had not existed at all. Having said that, I thank this group for doing so much good. I’m proud to call myself a member, and hope that you’ll get the prize that will keep you fighting for justice and against the death penalty.
Laura // May 7, 2009 at 6:50 pm |
La lucha lucha sigue….
justice for all! and that means no state-sanctioned killing!
Nancy Kurtz // May 7, 2009 at 7:53 pm |
I heartily support Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty. The death penalty and our entire prison system are ripe for reform. Thanks to all who participate in this worthwhile project.
Wendy Hounsel // May 7, 2009 at 8:33 pm |
Thanks for your hard work. I look forward to the day when the death penalty no longer exists.
Joanne Gavin // May 7, 2009 at 10:07 pm |
Some of these folks have been in the struggle for a long time. Others are the bright young folks who so often turn the tide in struggles for human rights. Some of us remember when we were the only ones who believed there was a chance to stop the Texas Killing Machine. But we also remember victories achieved through mass grass roots organizing, like the successful campaigns that freed innocent Clarence Brandley and Ricardo Aldape Guerra. But now progress is being made beyond individual cases, such as the very promising campaign to change Texas’ notorious “Law of Parties”. Those who work closely with prisoners and their families do not have access to big sources of funding. Much of the printing, mailing, gas for trips, etc., has come from the pockets of the activists themselves. They need all the help they can get. This prize/grant would be really helpful to them.
Daniel A. // May 7, 2009 at 10:23 pm |
These groups deserve to win. They accomplish so much with so little money by using social media and working together. I just heard today that their hard work over the last several months has resulted in a vote Friday on the Law of Parties in the Texas House. Great job! They really deserve to win.
Marisol Ramirez // May 7, 2009 at 10:50 pm |
Good luck and thanks for the support my husband Juan Raul Ramirez has received.
Terry Osta // May 7, 2009 at 11:32 pm |
Abolish the death penalty!
Geoff Allshorn // May 8, 2009 at 1:34 am |
I live in Austrtalia, a nation which long ago abolished the death penalty. I look forward to the day when Texas and the USA join the civilised world and abolish this medieval and barbaric punishment. I commend all those who work towards this abolition, which will surely be as historic and significant as the abolition as slavery.
Glenna Balch // May 8, 2009 at 1:43 am |
Help us in Texas to end the death penalty.
Bob Carter // May 8, 2009 at 3:10 am |
May, 7- 09
Thou shall not kill. No exceptions.
Why do we kill people to show that killing people is wrong.
David Perry // May 8, 2009 at 3:17 am |
Keep up the good work, someday Texas and every other jurisdiction still clinging to barbarism will come around.
Alex Keel // May 8, 2009 at 4:54 am |
Between 1996 and approx 2000, I wrote to – and visited a couple of guys, locked up for decades, waiting for being put to death. There used to be some, call it “purposeful activity” (making models, drawing, painting, etc), then that was taken away from them. The conditions were dire, and all I could think, is:
1) Don’t let these people “dangle” for years on end to wait for the inevitable: If the state really and truly feels comfortable, advertising their archaic outlook to the world, do it quickly!
2) Many of the individual on death row had no, or ineffective defence counsel and because they are poor, an elitist state decides to simply get rid of them (how convenient).
3) Death row, like super-prisons, are a “growth industry” (!). Would it not be better to give good basic funds to EVERYone, and give education and jobs, instead of death and destruction?
4) I am sure that this will put me on the government black-list for unwanted visitors. In the event, I have already visited and was not that greatly impressed: Maybe, the new President gives hope to a more socially aware USA that changes to give ordinary people a better life and puts executions on hold; at the same time, giving those, who really ARE guilty of a crime, the chance to repay their debt by other means and create programmes that make better people out of them, rather than jsut killing them off.
Good luck with your petition.
Stacy Fergurson // May 8, 2009 at 2:15 pm |
Simple: ” Two wrongs don’t msake a right.”
And to sum it up, one of the 10 COMMANDMENTS: : THOU SHOU NOT KILL.”
How can our very grovernment kill, and it be right >
“Integrety for Texas/U.S.A.”
AS A PROFESSIONAL WITH CLIENTS ON DEATH ROW, IT MAKES IT HARD TO SLEEP AT NIGHT.
it doesn’t feel good having parents call me, begging that I do “something” to stop our grovernment from killing their child !
Nicole // May 8, 2009 at 2:30 pm |
I feel we can see the end of the death penalty in my lifetime. Keep up the good work!
Pamela // May 8, 2009 at 2:32 pm |
Please Abolish the Death Penalty
Alessandro d'Ansembourg // May 8, 2009 at 2:35 pm |
good luck guys you have all my support in the fight against capital punishment!!!
Anne // May 8, 2009 at 2:39 pm |
Great Work!!
I really admire what you do and I hope you win!
Best of luck!!
Franca // May 8, 2009 at 2:48 pm |
stop death penalty
…..great job
Alba Di Carlo // May 8, 2009 at 2:58 pm |
They are doing a great job
Daniela Sadun // May 8, 2009 at 3:01 pm |
You are making a great job!
Death penalty has nothing to do with a world based on justice.
Valentina // May 8, 2009 at 3:02 pm |
Any country’s laws cannot be based on the concept of vengeance. People may commit dreadful crimes against other people, human nature is not perfect, we all know that. And that’s why death penalty will never represent a deterrent to evil.
Evil is unfortunately part of our imperfection.
Now, these crimes may arise a strong wish for taking revenge..and this is human, too.
But what about the Law? Shouldn’t it be beyond all this?!?! Isn’t it its own specific same nature that to control human unconrolled worst passions?
Life is life. Whomever it belongs to. Innocent and assassins. And we have the duty to respect it. A and protect it.
If our intention is that of protecting and preventing criminals to act again, we can always choose to keep them in prison and try to help them change in a good way.
Sylvie // May 8, 2009 at 3:26 pm |
There’s a lot of work to do in Texas to educate people and change minds: it must be the only place I’ve ever been where people are not ashamed to say they’re pro-death penalty.
I hope your alliance will win the prize, Texas deserves it!
Kate // May 8, 2009 at 3:30 pm |
Jenzabar could do a world of good by supporting your cause. I hope it works out for you.
Sabine Wübben // May 8, 2009 at 3:31 pm |
Abolish the Death Penalty!!
Thomas // May 8, 2009 at 3:36 pm |
Good luck and keep up the good work!
As a worker in the legal field in Florida, I see first hand how much severe sentencing, up to and including the death penalty, has on families and individuals.
Cathy Schwartz // May 8, 2009 at 3:44 pm |
Great outreach – great work. Texas needs your organization!
Ashley Sosa // May 8, 2009 at 4:05 pm |
Thanks to everyone involved for your hard work in this cause. Keep it up!
Alessandro Volpe // May 8, 2009 at 4:42 pm |
I think death penalty is the wrong way to punish people for their crimes.
It should be better a long permanernce in jail with the purpose of rehabilitate people with the aim (if they deserve it) of giving them a new chance for life.
Jordan Jackson // May 8, 2009 at 5:55 pm |
I am crossing my fingers that you win. I know you all are some of the hardest working people I have seen and Texas needs some funding for working against the death penalty.
Marilee Armstrong // May 8, 2009 at 6:58 pm |
Let’s abolish the racist and barbaric death penalty that executes a sizeable percentage of innocent people!
I vote for the Texas Death Penalty Abolition Movement. These folks are doing excellent work and could take on even more with additional funding.
Kelly Epstein // May 8, 2009 at 7:24 pm |
We are working hard in Texas to abolish the death penalty – The day is coming!
dan // May 8, 2009 at 7:54 pm |
keep up the great work!
Ana Barata // May 8, 2009 at 7:55 pm |
Stop the death penalty
Amanda Urquiza // May 8, 2009 at 8:56 pm |
“An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind.”
Bev Allan // May 8, 2009 at 9:01 pm |
They are doing a brilliant job in the fight to abolish the death penalty. I hope they win!
Natalia Marimon-Allan // May 8, 2009 at 9:19 pm |
They are doing an impressive and very important job, I do hope they win!
David Sierra // May 8, 2009 at 9:23 pm |
Eye for an eye and the world will go blind.
Nice work, I hope you win!
Bobby Whittenberg // May 9, 2009 at 12:11 am |
Government should NEVER get to make the choice of life and death for a living being. Give government the death penalty! Abolition now!
Randi Jones // May 9, 2009 at 3:03 am |
grassroots organizing like this is what will end the racist death penalty in texas and everywhere.
Maria Luis Demée // May 9, 2009 at 3:41 am |
Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty do an extremely important work in a very harsh ground. Everybody involved in the work of this organization battles for each case, taking it to heart – all of us who support them get under this spell, following each case very near, as in the meantime, each person becomes an acquaintance. Texas Friends and Allies Against the Death Penalty truly works with the spirit of justice.
Lucha Rodriguez-Gonzalez // May 9, 2009 at 5:10 am |
This group is great and they work so hard!!! Keep doing what you do because the prisoners and their families are grateful for what ya’ll do.
David Turnoy // May 10, 2009 at 1:18 am |
Just wanting to express myself in favor of the Texas group working against the death penalty to win this award. Thank you.
David Turnoy // May 10, 2009 at 1:20 am |
Just wanting to express my support of this terrific group of folks in Texas battling against the death penalty.
Phyllis Anne Nolan // May 10, 2009 at 7:03 pm |
The death penalty is certainly something we MUST leave behind us as soon as possible in Texas, this whole loved country we call home, and the world that really is the home we share with all. Unburdened by this ungodly law we can move a few steps closer to the world of peace, justice sister/brotherhood we all long for !
Frances Morey // May 11, 2009 at 3:22 am |
Unfortunately the executions were not stopped for the seven people condemned to death under the Law of Parties which the TX Legislature is considering repealing. Even if it is repealed they do not qualify for a reduced sentence because they have already been executed.
BFSCR // May 11, 2009 at 11:11 pm |
What we can best do about these deaths is make sure that this injustice is not repeated. This is why I’m so happy at the progress being made to repeal the inhumane law of parties.
Folko // May 21, 2009 at 2:19 pm |
With the Texas killing machine still running at full speed, the organizations listed above are unfortunately now needed more than ever.
The members of these organizations are true fighters for justice and their struggle provides more than a glimmer of hope for people trapped in the death machine – as in Kenneth Foster’s case, it can save lives.
Stop the legal lynching!
Stephanie orchard // May 23, 2009 at 4:40 pm |
Why do we KILL people who KILL people to show that KILLING people is WRONG.