Campaign Update - Week of 05/05/2008

AT THE DEATH HOUSE DOOR
3 shows this week–one is TONITE
The film is about Reverend Carroll Pickett, a Presbyterian minister who served from 1982 to 1995 as chaplain on Texas’s death row in Huntsville. He counseled 95 inmates and stood with them in the death chamber as they were executed. The film is based on audiotapes he made at the time of each execution of his thoughts and feelings about the man and the execution process. It chronicles in the most moving terms the reasons for his transformation from death penalty supporter to abolitionist. The film focuses on one particularly troubling execution, that of Carlos DeLuna, whom Rev. Pickett believed at the time to be innocent and whose case for innocence was recently bolstered by an investigation by the Chicago Tribune. The film also focuses on the effect capital punishment has on the mental health of all involved, including family members of the executed and those whose positions require them to carry it out. The film is a must see for those who wish to think deeply about whether the death penalty has any place in a civilized society.

Three Opportunities to View This Film:

WHEN: TONIGHT Tuesday, May 6, 7:00pm
WHERE: Webster University, Moore Auditorium, First floor, Webster Hall, 470 E. Lockwood Ave., Webster Groves, MO 63119. The showing is a part of the Webster Film Series.
COST: Admission is $4-6.
Reverend Pickett will be at this showing to discuss his experiences and answer questions.

WHEN: FRIDAY May 9, 7:00pm
WHERE: St. Louis University, Tegler Hall, Carlo Auditorium, 3550 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO 63103.
COST: Admission is free.

WHEN: SATURDAY May 10, 1:00pm
WHERE: Life Victory Center, 2922 Grand, St. Louis, MO 63107.
COST: Admission is free.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Dave McNeil, MADP St. Louis chapter chair, 314-772-1146

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Clemency Petitioning
Save the date- Potential details to collect signatures for Reggie’s clemency

May 24-26 - African Arts Festival, Forest Park Pavillion
May 29 - Erycah Badu Concert
Memorial Day Events

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Affirmation Act Law withstands attack by Ward Connerly
This struggle is not related to the death penalty but is certainly related to fairness and justice. The so-called Missouri Civil Rights ballot initiative was not able to turn in enough signatures on Sunday which means the issue will not be on the November ballot. This was a deceptive campaign by Connerly to turn back the clock on affirmative action. The We CAN Coalition helped to organize a statewide offensive that shut down Connerly’s operation in spite of his millions of dollars. This is a good example of how effective a united effort can be if you have a good strategy, solid partners and committed volunteers.

Thanks to you if you helped in any way to spread the word about the Decline to Sign-Think before you Ink campaign by We CAN. Claim your victory!

COMING SOON!! The Color of Justice documentary

“Enough Already!”
Jamala Rogers, Coordinator
JUSTICE for Reggie Campaign
P. O. Box 5277
St. Louis, MO 63115
(314) 367-5959
www.justiceforreggie.com