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Campaign Update - Week of 12/20/2010

Fifth Anniversary Program

Faced with a weather forecast of freezing rain, a hard-core group of supporters convened at Legacy Books and Café on December 15. Owner John Nicks welcomed the group back to the establishment. The Justice for Reggie Campaign kicked off at Legacy in 2005 and early on, Nicks joined Reggie’s List of Influentials.

After I gave a brief update of the 2010 highlights of the campaign, Donnie Morehouse, outgoing Executive Director of MADP, presented us with challenges regarding the death penalty in the upcoming legislative session. Rev. Vickie Caldwell (Clergy Coalition) followed with remarks about efforts to engage the faith community in a helpful and inspiration way. Dail Chambers (GYA Gallery) reported on the art project that is a partnership between the Campaign and the gallery. She displayed one of Reggie’s pieces that will be available for sale. (More details on this coming in the future.) Derrick Redhead (Amnesty International) gave an update on the groups Global Write-on-Thon which features Reggie’s case. Derrick gave instructions on the letter-writing session that followed the formal part of the anniversary program. Bishop and Vera Thomas talked about the heart-felt appreciation for all the love and support the family has received and how important the organization has been to furthering Reggie’s cause. Redditt Hudson (ACLU) closed out the program by challenging us to rub the noses of the criminal system into the mess that they’ve created for families and for our entire judicial system. Redditt’s words of motivation framed our next steps for struggle and the need to be armed with truth and strategy.

We thank the Justice for Reggie Steering Committee for their continued efforts and for those who braved the weather to be a part of the recommitment to Reggie’s fight for justice.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 12/13/2010

Reggie & Parents on Bernie Hayes Show
Join the conversation on Wednesday, December 15 at 7:00 am on WGNU 920 AM radio with host Bernie Hayes.

5th Anniversary Program
We hope to see you tomorrow evening, December 15, from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm at the anniversary program hosted by Legacy Books, 5249 Delmar. It’s a time to get updated, celebrate our victories and recommit to the fight to free Reggie. Don’t forget to bring any completed petitions.

Execution Date Set for Richard Clay
The Missouri Supreme Court has set an execution date for Clay on January 12, 2011. This is not the way we want to start off the year. There were no executions last year and this is the second since October 2005. Two is too many. We’ll keep you posted on any developments.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 12/6/2010

Human Rights
International Human Rights Day is December 10. This is the day the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is a time for us to recognize the lack of human rights in this country and re-commit ourselves to the global struggle to respect and uphold human rights for ALL.

One of the human rights activities that we encourage Reggie’s supporters to take part in is Amnesty International’s Global Write-a-Thon. The St. Louis event is Saturday, December 11th from 3:00 - 9:00 pm at Schlafly Bottleworks (7260 Southwest Ave. Maplewood, MO). There will be plenty of table space for letter writing. Look for Derrick Redhead who will be happy to assist you with your letter for Reggie.

For more on the Global Write-a-Thon, follow this link: http://www.amnestyusa.org/writeathon/caseindex.php?i=12

5th Anniversary
The Justice for Reggie Campaign will recognize its 5th anniversary on Wednesday, December 15 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Legacy Books & Cafe will host the event at 5249 Delmar Blvd. The program will include a few speakers and a letter writing session as we participate in the Amnesty International’s Global Write-a-Thon. GYA Galley’s Dail Chambers will talk about Reggie’s art project. Please join us as we re-commit to the fight to free Reggie.

Don’t forget! There are upcoming opportunities for collecting signatures for Reggie’s clemency. The Kwanzaa Expo is this weekend end and a number of holiday events are coming. You can also turn in any completed clemency petitions for Reggie at the 5th anniversary event.

You may be interested …

*The St. Louis Coalition for Human Rights is sponsoring their annual program on Sunday, December 12 from 3:00 pm - 5:00 pm at the Missouri History Museum, Lindell Blvd. & DeBaliviere.

*The National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty is having their annual conference January 13-16, 2011 in Chicago, IL. Details are on the NCADP’s website.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 11/29/2010

5th Anniversary
The Justice for Reggie Campaign will recognize its 5th anniversary on Wednesday, December 15 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Legacy Books & Cafe will host the event at 5249 Delmar Blvd. The program will include a letter writing session as we participate in the Amnesty International’s Global Write-a-Thon. Please join us as we re-commit to the fight to free Reggie.

Don’t forget! You can also turn in any completed clemency petitions for Reggie.

Amnesty International Write-a-Thon
St. Louis Amnesty International is sponsoring a Write-a-thon on Saturday, December 11th from 3:00 pm - 9:00 pm at Schlafly Bottleworks (7260 Southwest Ave. Maplewood, MO). There will be plenty of table space for letter writing. Look for Derrick Redhead who will be happy to assist you with your letter for Reggie.

For more on the Global Write-a-Thon, follow this link: http://www.amnestyusa.org/writeathon/caseindex.php?i=12

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

Campaign Update - Week of 11/21/2010

Campaign’s 5th Anniversary
The Justice for Reggie Campaign will recognize its 5th anniversary on Wednesday, December 15 from 6:00 - 8:00 pm. Legacy Books & Cafe will host the celebration at 5249 Delmar Blvd. The program will include various updates and a letter-writing session. Please join us as we re-commit to the fight to free Reggie. You can also turn in any completed clemency petitions for Reggie.

Global Write-a-Thon
Amnesty International’s Global Write-a-thon, (the largest worldwide letter writing campaign) is scheduled for December 4-12, 2010. This annual event brings activists around the world together in order to do one simple thing for justice, and that’s writing a letter in support of an Individual at Risk.

This year among the 12 cases being highlighted is Reggie Clemons. In addition to letter writing at the 5th anniversary of his Campaign, AI will also hold a letter-writing event. Details are being finalized. Meanwhile, you can jump start the letter writing by following this link: http://www.amnestyusa.org/writeathon/caseindex.php?i=12

Enjoy your holidays with family and remember the families of murder victims and those incarcerated. During this time, remember the plight of indigenous people in this country and the myths around Thanksgiving.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 11/15/2010

Campaign’s 5th Anniversary
Mark your calendar. The Justice for Reggie Campaign will recognize its 5th Anniversary on Wednesday, December 15 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. Legacy Books & Cafe hosted the kick off in 2005 and will host it again at 5249 Delmar Blvd. Details to follow.

Amnesty International
International Human Rights Day is December 10. It is also Amnesty International’s Write for Rights Global Write-a-thon - the world’s largest letter writing event. This year, Reggie’s case will be featured along with 12 others. The Write-a-thon is in solidarity with those suffering human rights abuses and works to bring about real change in people’s lives.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 11/8/2010

Amnesty International’s Midwest Regional
Steering Committee member Reddick Hudson represented the Justice for Reggie Campaign at AI’s recent regional gathering in Detroit. Reddick’s passionate presentation apparently touched a justice chord in those who attended and generated lots of positive responses.

5th Anniversary
The Justice for Reggie Campaign kicked off five years ago. We will recognize that milestone and re-commit ourselves to the continued struggle for Reggie’s freedom. Please mark your calendar for December 15. Details to follow.

Venue for Clemency Petitions
The Church of God in Christ 103rd Convocation will be held in St. Louis November 8-15. An estimated 45,000 people are expected to convene at the Convention Center and will be a good place for collecting signatures. If you are interested, please let us know as soon as possible.

Conviction
If you have not seen this movie yet, we encourage you to do so. Conviction is based upon the true story of Kenny Waters who was unjustly convicted of a 1980 murder in Massachusetts. With only a GED, Betty Anne Waters took on the long journey to law school and with the support of the Innocence Project, eventually freed her brother. The movie shows the impact of the death penalty on families, a community and the judicial system. Not covered in the movie but becoming an issue by her family is Katharina Brow which murder remains unsolved.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 10/25/2010

Today is the 5th anniversary of Marlin Gray’s execution. We ask that you pause and reflect on the families affected by the Chain of Rocks Bridge tragedy. We encourage you to continue the struggle for justice and recommit to ending the death penalty in Missouri.

Executions are on hold in the Show-Me State. Last week the vigil still took place for Roderick Nunley who’s life was spared by the US Supreme Court. The High Court upheld the stay by a federal judge in Kansas City and the 8th Circuit of Appeals. Nunley’s lawyers had sought the delay after arguing that a jury, not a judge, should have determined Nunley’s sentence. The Missouri Supreme Court has set a hearing for Nunley in January 2011. We will keep you posted on any developments.

Signatures for Reggie’s clemency petitions are still being collected. Campus competition is high! Let’s keep it going.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 10/3/2010

No Execution Stay for Roderick Nunley
The Missouri Supreme Court has denied a stay for Nunley. He is scheduled for execution on October 20. We will keep you posted on developments or what you can do to support the clemency efforts.

October 10 is World Day Against the Death Penalty
On Sunday, October 10, please observe this day by…
1. Wearing a Reggie tee-shirt or button or any other anti-death penalty memorabilia to bring attention to the issue.
2. Talk to friends, neighbors, co-workers, etc. about the need to abolish the death penalty.
3. Make a financial, moral or time commitment to an organization fighting against the death penalty.
4. Faith leaders talk about the death penalty from their pulpits.

Reggie on Campus
Thanks to the Policy and Politics class at Forest Park Community College for the invitation to talk about Reggie’s case. Lots of good questions helped to generate a deeper discussion about the role of race, class and politics on social policy.

Meanwhile, Washington University students are turning in petition sheets. SLU, St. Louis Community Colleges, Fontbonne and others, let’s get those signatures rolling!

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

Campaign Update - Week of 9/27/2010

Reggie on Campus
Reggie on Campus is instituted each year from September to November to get Reggie’s story on area campuses. If you or someone you know is attending a college, university or any of the community colleges, please consider doing as many of the following as your schedule allows:

1. Collect signatures for Reggie’s clemency petition. Since it’s an organizing petition and not an official petition,
signatories don’t have to be a registered voter, city or state resident or any particular age.
2. Invite a representative from the Justice for Reggie Campaign to speak to your class or campus group.
3. Distribute fact sheets about Reggie’s case.
4. Get your campus newspaper to write an article or editorial on Reggie’s case, or write a letter to the editor.
(We appreciate the great editorial in The Turret, school newspaper of the Christian Brothers College High School).

No Tomorrow
A reminder that this award-winning documentary will be screened on Wednesday, Sept 29, at 7:00 pm at the History Museum. It is about the trial of Juan Chavez who is accused of killing Risa Bejarano. The Justice for Reggie Campaign will have a literature table there so if you have completed petitions, you can drop them off there.

Virginia Execution
It has been almost a century, since Virginia has executed a woman. Despite outcries about her low IQ and appeals to Virginia’s governor and the US Supreme Court, Teresa Lewis was executed last week by lethal injection for her part in the 2002 killing of her husband and stepson.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 9/20/2010

No Tomorrow Documentary
We have had several inquiries as to whether this film is about Reggie’s case. No, it isabout the trial of Juan Chavez who is accused of killing Risa Bejarano. It is not a case of wrongful conviction but explores the complexity of a death penalty trial through the eyes of the families, prosecutor, attorneys, jurors, friends etc.

No Tomorrow is being screened at the Missouri History Museum on Wednesday, Sept 29 at 7:00 pm. If you have completed petitions for Reggie, you can turn them in at that time. The Campaign will have a literature table set up.

Reggie on Campus
Now that the dust has settled on area college campuses, we will be hitting as many as we can to talk about Reggie’s case. If you or someone you know is a student or student leader of a campus group, we are available to speak to classes, show Borrowed Time, the documentary on Reggie’s case, set up a literature table, etc.

Farewell to Dave McNeil
David McNeil is relocating to Portland, Oregon. It’s St. Louis’ loss and Portland’s gain. Dave once headed up the local chapter of Missourians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty and is a stalwart abolitionist of the death penalty. We wish him well and hope that we can send him good news about our efforts here in Missouri to end state murder.

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

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Campaign Update - Week of 9/13/2010

From Reggie
Reggie is doing well and in good spirits—thanks to the birthday celebration and the birthday greetings he has received. He thanks you all for the important efforts on not just his case but in eliminating the death penalty in Missouri.

No word on the DNA test results.

No Tomorrow Documentary
On Wednesday, September 29 at 7:00 pm, the Missouri History Museum will host this award-winning documentary that covers a death penalty trial and brings to the fore all the voices who participated—prosecutor, jury, family, witnesses, etc. It is free and open to the public.

Justice for Reggie Campaign will have a literature table at the showing and will be collecting petition signatures.

World Day Against the Death Penalty
October 10th (10.10.10) is the international day set aside to move the world closer to complete abolition of the death penalty. This year targets the US as one of the last of the industrial nations to abolish the inhumane punishment and to support those in this country who are fighting against the death penalty. Last year, the US handed down 106 death sentences. As we get close to that day, we will make suggestions about how to honor WDADP with action.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 8/30/2010

Reggie’s B-Day Bash
A special thanks to GYA Art Gallery for hosting the bash. We had our faithful core of supporters but we also made a bunch of new friends. We appreciated all the performing and visual artists who brought their gifts of talent to the celebration—El Thought, Khalil the Poet, Billie Allen, Anthony Reed and Siphne Sylve. Reggie was able to join us by phone and heard the spoken word presentations and the birthday songs. Until Reggie’s phone minutes ran out, the cell phone was passed around so that he was able to individual talk with supporters. Thanks for all those made it a special day for Reggie.

Birthday photos and video will be up on the website soon so you can check them out.

The Campaign is now assessing whether we reached our goal of 50,000 signatures. If you have petition forms, please let me know asap. Even if they aren’t completely filled, let me know how many signatures you have so that I can include them in the count.

FYI—Still no word on the DNA test results.

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

Campaign Update Week of 8/23/2010

August 30 – Join Reggie’s birthday celebration
GYA Gallery is the place, 2700 Locust from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm.
Local artists will be there with you to share their talents and honor Reggie’s life: Khalil the Poet; Aja LaStarr; El Thought; Ms. Interpretation; Blue; Siphne Sylve; and Anthony Reed. Make sure you sign Reggie’s birthday card.

Please get a clemency petition completed to turn in. We’re really, really close to our goal of 50,000. We can do this. Possible places to get signatures this weekend are the Missouri Black Expo at the Convention Center, the LouFest in Forest Park, Festival of Nations in Tower Grove Park, etc.

Roderick Nunley Gets Execution Date
The Missouri Supreme Court has given Nunley a date of October 20. All possible efforts are underway to stop the execution. Details on how you can help are forthcoming.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 8/16/2010

Reggie’s 39th Birthday Celebration
Reggie’s Birthday Celebration is Monday, August 30 from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm. The theme is “Art and Liberation: The Fight for Justice.” GYA Gallery is our special host located at 2700 Locust (across the street from the Phyllis Wheatley YMCA).

Visual and performing artists include Khalil the Poet, Aja LaStarr, El Thought, Ms. Interpretation, Blue, Siphne Sylve & Anthony Reed.

Admission to the event is one completed clemency petition OR get a blank petition at the celebration, get signatures & return it to the campaign.

Here are some events coming up where signatures can be obtained.

August 20-21
St. Louis Black Pride August 20-21 is Black Pride Weekend. Details about activities/locations will be announced soon.

August 22
Black August Film Fest at the Rowan Community Center, 1401 Rowan, 4:00 pm. Donation is $3.

August 27-29
Missouri Black Expo at Convention Center in downtown St. Louis.

August 29
Amherst Park Unity Concert, Hodiamont & Julian Avenues from 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm; music, dance, poetry, games, fun; bring your lawn chairs.

Bernie Hayes Show
Reggie and his parents will be on the Bernie’s Show on Wednesday, August 25 at 7:00 am. Listen in at 920 AM Radio or the internet.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 8/9/2010

DNA Testing
Many of you have anxiously inquired about the status of the DNA testing. No results at this point.

Reggie’s Facebook Page
We have discovered that Reggie has two FB pages. We are giving friends on the “Reggie Clemons” page a chance to join the official FB page at “Justice for Reggie Clemons.” The un-official page will be shut down on August 22, 2010.

Reggie’s 39th Birthday Celebration
The Justice for Reggie Campaign has teamed up with the GYA Art Gallery for Reggie’s Birthday on Monday, August 30 from 6:00-8:00 pm. GYA is located at 2700 Locust (across the street from the Phyllis Wheatley YMCA). The theme is “Art and Liberation: The Fight for Justice.” Local artists will be contributing their talents to make it a special occasion. Admission to the event is one completed clemency petition OR get a blank petition at the celebration, get signatures and return it to the Campaign (Petition can be downloaded from Reggie’s website).

As a result of our Amnesty International partner, we have doubled the number of signatures for Reggie’s clemency petitions. We stand at about 45,000 signatures and would like to give Reggie a birthday gift of 50,000. We can reach that goal but only with your help by getting the word out and circulating the petition.

There are a number of events coming up where signatures can be obtained. Here the are:

August 14
Better Family Life’s Black Family Week (August 7-14) culminating with the Peacefest at Ivory Perry Memorial Park, Belt & Clemens from 10:00 am - 8:00 pm

Black August Film Fest @ Afro World, 7276 Natural Bridge at 5:00 pm. Donation is $3.

August 20-21
St. Louis Black Pride August 20-21 is Black Pride Weekend. Details about activities/locations will be announced soon.

August 22
Black August Film Fest at the Rowan Community Center, 1401 Rowan, 4:00 pm. Donation is $3.

August 27-29
Missouri Black Expo at Convention Center in downtown St. Louis.

August 29
Amherst Park Unity Concert at Hodiamont and Julian Avenues will present musicians, games, etc. from 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm

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

Campaign Update - Week of 7/19/2010

Reggie Ends Fast
Some of you expressed concern for Reggie’s health and welfare when you found out about his food strike. He ended the fast and is now eating regular meals. His fast was a result of the frustration with prison authorities to actively pursue his legal case. Reggie has once again been placed in administration segregation (“The Hole”) for another unfounded violation.

Reggie turns 39
Reggie’s birthday is August 30 and we are making plans for our community birthday party. We have been doing this since the Justice for Reggie Campaign began. He has celebrated the last 20 birthdays behind bars. We know that one day soon Reggie will be home and we can truly celebrate his special day with him. Stay tuned for details.

NAACP Convention
Last week in Kansas City, Justice for Reggie was represented at the NAACP’s national convention. Steve Hawkins, a long-time supporter is now with the NAACP and moderated a panel on criminal justice. He cited Reggie’s case as one example of the systemic problems with the US justice system. We distributed information about Reggie’s case, collected signatures and met new friends for justice.

Update on Dale Helmig
America’s Most Wanted is airing a full one-hour show on Dale’s case this Saturday night, July 24, at 8:00 p.m. The show will include updated footage from the recent habeas corpus hearing in DeKalb County. This should be very enlightening program.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 7/12/2010

Save the Date
Reggie’s 39th Birthday Celebration will be Tuesday, August 31. Details are forthcoming.

Workshop at NAACP Convention
Jamala Rogers will present a workshop on Reggie’s case during the NAACP’s 101st national convention in Kansas City.

Recent Hearings
As reported, Troy Davis had his hearing a couple of weeks ago. According to our friends at Amnesty International, Troy’s legal team must meet the bar for proving his innocence as set by the US Supreme Court. If Judge Moore rules the bar was met, then we’re on to an overturned conviction. If not, Troy could once again face execution. We won’t stand for that! Truth is truth and justice is justice.

Closer to home, Dale Helmig had his hearing last week. Dale was convicted for the murder of his mother in 1993. This was a case that was prosecuted by none other than Kenny Hulshof. The same Kenny Hulshof that prosecuted Josh Kezer, an innocent man who served 15 years for a murder he didn’t commit. Kezer was released last year by Judge Callahan who pretty much called Hulshof a liar10 (liar to the 10th degree) and that everything in his closing argument was “untrue.” At the hearing, the state trooper recanted his ’93 testimony. Helmig’s attorney was apparently on drugs at the time of the trial. You start to see the recurring pattern so familiar to the US court system—overzealous prosecutor, poor legal defense, withheld evidence, etc.

Reggie’s case and cases like Dale and Troy are proof enough that the country should not be executing ANY body.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 06/14/2010

Troy Davis Joins Reggie’s List of Influentials
A press release went out Monday to announce the newest member of Reggie’s List of Influentials. Troy Davis said he was “honored” to be a member of the Influentials. Troy has been on Georgia’s death row for almost 19 years. The cases of Reggie and Troy have some common themes. The main ones are that they both had unfair trials, they both came close to being executed, and now, they both have a second chance to get their story told because of the organized support behind their cases.

Troy has a hearing on June 23 at the federal court in Savannah. There will be a week of activities to raise awareness and support for his innocence. June 22 has been declared Global Solidarity Day for Troy Davis. We are suggesting that you wear your Reggie button on that day and put a piece of tape over the bottom that reads “Support Troy Davis.”

Signature Count
We are still counting petition signatures to date and are waiting for the count of some of our partners. We hope to have that count soon to see if we made our goal of 25,000.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 6/7/2010

No More Executions!
It is unfortunate that there was NO movement of the moratorium bills in the Missouri Legislature this past session. Had we been successful, we would not be hearing mumblings about who may be facing an execution date. The abolition movement must get bigger and bolder if we are serious about putting Missouri executions in the dustbin of history.

Clemency Petitioning
We remind people that we must continue our petitioning efforts even as the Special Master does his review of the case. It helps us to get Reggie’s story to people and it also documents the number of people who support Governor Nixon doing his own review of the case.

We appreciated the efforts of our petition team who covered the 4-day African Arts Festival in the park. We plan to give a count on our overall signature count in next week’s campaign update. If you collected any signatures, please get your petitions in ASAP.

Oh yes, Reggie’s petition will be at the US Social Forum in Detroit!

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

Campaign Update - Week of 5/23/2010

Petitioning Opportunities
We still need a few volunteers for Reggie’s table at the African Arts Festival on Saturday through Monday.
There are many opportunities this week for gathering signatures for Reggie’s clemency petition: African Arts Festival, Black Dance USA, Shakespeare in the Park and other Memorial Day events. Please download a petition from Reggie’s website to take with you. Thanks to all of you who have mailed in completed forms.

Commutation News from NCADP
Oklahoma Governor Brad Henry commuted the death sentence of Richard Smith to life without possibility of parole. Smith had been convicted and sentenced in the 1986 shooting of John Cederland during an alleged drug deal. Smith insisted that his trial attorneys mounted a poor defense, which did not include his history of mental illness and drug abuse, or his childhood marred by abuse and neglect. Some jurors later said if they had known of Smith’s struggles with mental illness and drugs they would not have voted to execute him.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 5/17/2010

Amnesty International Press Conference
Read the report: Amnesty International: Clemons Report

Petitioning
The recent media generated by Amnesty International’s report on the Reggie Clemons case has been signficant. Because more and more people are hearing about the case, it helps in our continued storytelling about the Chain of Rocks Bridge tragedy as well as making it easier to get signatures for the clemency petition.

Please let us know if you can help at our table or collect signatures at the upcoming African Arts Festival May 29-31 from about 12:00 noon until 8:00 pm daily.The festival is in Forest Park at the World’s Pavilion. (Note: The Fest kicks off Friday but we will not have a table on that day).

Death Penalty News
The final days of the Missouri legislature saw no movement on the moratorium or abolition bills but the amendment to narrow proportionality review of death penalty cases died in the dust. Please thank Senators Jolie Justus, Joan Bray, Rita Days and Joe Keaveny for their successful efforts on putting this amendment to rest.

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled today in a long-awaited case declaring that life without parole is unconstitutional for juveniles convicted of crimes other than homicide. The case before the High Court was that of Terrance Graham of Florida where 60% of juveniles are locked up for life for crimes other than homicide (now that’s immoral!). As with the ruling that exempted juveniles from execution, Justice Anthony Kennedy upheld that “children are different” in the majority opinion because they really are different than adults in their development and decision-making.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 05/10/2010

AI Press Conference
The Amnesty International press conference went very well. We are excited about AI’s commitment to Reggie’s struggle for justice and look forward to working with them in the future. Representatives from the major news stations came out. Help us to monitor the tone and accuracy of their coverage, such as referring to Reggie as a “convicted rapist” when he never was convicted of a rape charge.

Program on Death Penalty Challenge
An informational program on the forthcoming federal civil rights action challenging the Missouri death penalty on the basis of its effects on the families at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, May 13 at Christ Church Cathedral’s Schuyler Hall, 1210 Locust Street (13th & Locust) in downtown St. Louis. There will be a PowerPoint presentation by Attorney John Simon and a panelist of family members familiar with having a loved one on death row (Paula Skillicorn, Mary Mifflin, and Lillie Cole). This event is free and open to the public.

Opportunities for Petition Signatures
Volunteers are needed to cover events like the Annie Malone Parade this Sunday (May 16) and the African Arts Festival (May 28-31). At the Festival, the Campaign will have a table telling Reggie’s tee shirts and buttons so we need supporters to sign up for shifts during the 4 days.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 05/03/2010

Please take note of the important upcoming events:

Sunday, May 9
The Clergy Coalition is hosting a Mother’s Day Service of Thanksgiving at Lane Tabernacle CME Church at 7:00 p.m. Film Maker and Public Speaker Reggie Bullock, the producer of “WAR FOR YOUR SOUL” will be the Keynote Speaker. Vera Thomas will be a special honoree. This event is free and open to the public.

Tuesday, May 11
Join us in welcoming the national reps from Amnesty International as they release their report on Reggie’s case entitled USA: Model criminal justice? Death by prosecutorial misconduct and a ‘stacked’ jury. The press conference will be at 11:00 am on the steps of the old Municipal Courts Building, 14th & Market.

Thursday, May 13
An informational program on the forthcoming federal civil rights action challenging the Missouri death penalty on the basis of its effects on the families will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, at Christ Church Cathedral’s Schuyler Hall, 1210 Locust Street (13th & Locust) in downtown St. Louis. There will be a PowerPoint presentation by Attorney John Simon and a panelist of family members familiar with having a loved one on death row (Paula Skillicorn, Mary Mifflin, and Lillie Cole). This event is free and open to the public.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 4/26/2010

Petition Opportunities
On May 1, we will need volunteers to collect signatures at May Day activities. Please email us back if you can do so at either event below. Wear your Reggie tee shirt or button.

11:30 am-1:30 pm March and rally for Human & Immigration Rights from the Convention Center to Park.
1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Street Festival on Ohio Avenue at Cherokee Street

*****************5000 signatures by May 10**************

Mother’s Day Event
The Clergy Coalition will sponsor Mother’s Day Service of Thanksgiving at Lane Tabernacle CME Church at 7:00 pm. Vera Thomas will be the special honoree. The keynote speaker is filmmaker Reggie Bullock, the producer of WAR FOR YOUR SOUL. The film presentation will be shown at 6:00 p.m.

Road Tour
Thanks to Jeff Stack and the Columbia chapter of Missourians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty (MADP) for hosting Borrowed Time at the Ragtag Cinema on Monday. An enlightened discussion followed the documentary.

On to Kansas City
On Wednesday, the students in Cathy Burnett’s class presented a mock hearing of Reggie’s case as their final grade for the semester. The defense and prosecution sides presented their cases so well that former Judge Jon Gray passed on making a ruling, instead applauding their presentations and stating that the case is a difficult one.

Later that evening, Gray and Jamala joined Alvin Brooks in a panel discussion about the impact of race and the media on a case like Reggie’s. The trio responded to questions from the audience. The event was sponsored by the KC MADP chapter.

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

[vimeo 10112102 w=500 h=281]

Campaign Update Week of 4/19/2010

Borrowed Time
Jamala will be traveling to Columbia, MO to facilitate the discussion following the documentary showing at Rag Time Theater. If you know anyone in Columbia, let them know the showing is at 5:30 pm.

Also Jeff Stack will be facilitating back to back showings of the documentary at the State Capitol on Tuesday, April 28 from 1:00 -4:00 pm in Hearing Room 2. Encourage your legislator to take some time out and check out whatever he/she can.

Volunteers Needed
The Campaign will be collecting signatures at the May 1 Rally for Human Rights sponsored by the United Methodist Women. The rally will be from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm in downtown St. Louis. Please let us know if you are available. Thousands are expected and we need a good-sized crew.

Reminders!
*MADP will host their Spotlight Award Dinner this Saturday to honor Attorney John Simon. It’s not too late to get tickets. Email TC@madpmo.org.
*There will no May 10th hearing by the Special Master on Reggie’s case. We will let you know when a new date has been confirmed.

Bianca Jagger’s Speech
Last month, we mentioned Bianca Jagger’s speech before the 4th Annual Congress Against the Death Penalty in Geneva and how she included Reggie’s case in her presentation. We have finally secured Bianca’s audio speech at the opening ceremony of the 4th World Congress Against the Death Penalty. It can be found at: http://vimeo.com/groups/feminista/videos/10112102.

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

(Source: https://player.vimeo.com/)

Campaign Update - Week of 4/12/2010

The Campaign had planned a busy month leading up to the May 10th hearing. The May 10th hearing will NOT take place but most of the activities were already in the works and will move forward. Here they are:

April
19 – Join a conversation with Reggie on the Bernie Hayes show at 7:00 am on WGNU AM.
20 - Jamala will be a guest on Columbia’s WKOS at 8:15 am.
24 - Missourians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty will hold their Spotlight Award dinner program. The event will be held at 100 N. Jefferson, St. Louis. Attorney John Simon will be the honoree. Reggie’s literature will be distributed. For more info, contact tc@madpmo.org.
27 - Borrowed Time will be shown at the Rag Time Theater House at 5:30 pm in Columbia.
28 - Students at University of Missouri @ Kansas City will perform a mock hearing on Reggie’s case at Noon. Later that evening, Jamala will be a panelist at a forum that evening from 5:30-7:00 pm
28 - Borrowed Time documentary will be shown in the Capitol Building in Jefferson City from 1:00-4:00 pm, Hearing Room 2.

There are upcoming activities in May includes a May Day Rally and a Mother’s Day event sponsored by the Clergy Coalition. Details are forthcoming.

Remember, we have a goal of 5000 signatures by May 10 so please take your petition form wherever you go.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 3/29/2010

May 10th Hearing to be Rescheduled

We are late with our weekly update because the Campaign needed to wait to see what was happening with the latest legal development. Because of the newly “found” rape kit, the Special Master, Judge Manner, will reset the May 10 hearing date until DNA testing has been done. We will keep you posted on both the DNA test results and the new hearing date.

In light of the hearing date change, certain planned activities will be reviewed. However, we are moving forward with reaching our goal of 5000 additional signatures for Reggie’s petitions by May 10. Students will continue to collect signatures on campuses and supporters will be collecting at community events and places of worship.

Campaign Newsletter
A special thanks goes to the crew who came last evening to work on getting the mailings out. The annual newsletter is published each year to chronicle the Campaign happenings for the prior year. The 2009 newsletter features the Year of the Fightback and all the efforts put in to stop Reggie’s execution. If you don’t get your newsletter within the next week, let us know as it may mean you are not in our database.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 03/22/2010

Volunteers Needed
Volunteers are needed this Saturday, March 27, 2010 to staff Reggie’s table at the Community Fair sponsored by the Missouri History Museum. Please let us know if you can do one or two hour shifts from 10:00 am – 3:00 pm.

Volunteers are also needed on Monday, March 29, 2010 to help with mailing out Reggie’s newsletter. We will meet at 7:00 pm at the Rowan Community Center, 1401 Rowan Avenue (63112). The more volunteers, the faster the mailing. Light refreshments will be served.

New Petition Signature Goal
Currently, we have 20,000 signatures of people who believe Reggie’s case has not received the fair and impartial investigation by the Governor’s office. From now until the May 10 hearing, we want to collect 5000 signatures for his clemency petition. More and more people are hearing about the case and we have many potential signatures just waiting for us. 5000 new signatures–we can do this!!

April 3-4 is Reggie Clemons Day
The Campaign has declared April 3 and 4 as Reggie Day. As you know, the Chain of Rocks Bridge incident happened on April 4, 1991. We ask faith leaders to incorporate Reggie’s case in their message or to say a special prayer for him, others on Death Row, and the families of both the victims and the convicted. For lay people, take the request to your spiritual leader to lift up Reggie’s case during this Easter weekend. Please let us know if your church or synagogue is participating and we will list them on the website. Don’t forget to collect signatures!

Lobby Day
Thanks to all the Reggie supporters who rallied and lobbied with us in the Capitol last week. Some of you even wore your Reggie tee-shirts. Let’s stay on top of the legislators to get a bill out this session.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 03/01/2010

Bianca Jagger
Last week, Bianca Jagger included Reggie’s case in her presentation before the 4th Annual Congress Against the Death Penalty in Geneva. Ms. Jagger may be known to most as a fashion icon and the former wife of rock star Mick Jagger. She is much more and has always been a human rights advocate. She currently serves as a Council of Europe Goodwill Ambassador. She is also on Reggie’s List of Influentials.

“I am currently supporting the campaign for clemency for Reggie Clemons, a 38 year-old African-American man sentenced to death in Missouri after an unfair trial biased in favour of execution… “

(read the entire speech) http://www.coe.int/t/dc/press/source/20100226_disc_bianca_jagger.doc

Forest Park Community College
The Law Club, the ACLU and Justice for Reggie did Part I today at the college as students attentively watched Borrowed Time, the documentary.

We will return tomorrow (Tuesday, March 2) for a panel discussion in the Highlander Lounge at 11 am. The event is free and open to the public.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 02/22/2010

Double-Day for the Documentary
On Monday, March 1, 2010 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, Borrowed Time will be shown in the Highlander Lounge located in the Student Center Building at Forest Park Community College.

On Tuesday, March 2, 2010 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, there will be a discussion on Borrowed Time. The discussion will take place in the Highlander Lounge as well.

Both events are free and open to the public.

Legislative
There are a few seats left on the bus going to Jefferson City for Lobby Day. The event is March 17, 2010 and is sponsored by the Moratorium Now! Coalition. Call if you are interested in going. Contact TC Parsons at 314-556-9267 for more information or to reserve your bus seat.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 02/15/2010

Borrowed Time Documentary Showings
February 22, 2010 at 5:30 pm—Columbia, MO
Vera and Jamala will be on a panel discussion following the documentary at the Missouri University Law School. Steve Weinberg, journalism professor and Rod Uphoff, law professor will join them. Weinberg is on Reggie’s List of Influentials and did the incredible work on prosecutorial misconduct in this country’s judicial system. He highlighted the unethical and immoral conduct of notorious Nels Moss in his articles.

If you would like to drive with us to Columbia, please let us know by this Friday.

March 1, 2010—showing at Forest Park Community College. Panel discussion to be held on March 2, 2010 from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Event sponsored by the Law Department. Details to follow.

Moratorium Now! Lobby Day
Join opponents on the Missouri’s death penalty at the Capitol on Wednesday, March 17. There will be a free bus going up but you must reserve your seat. This is a good experience for those who have never been to Jefferson City to see our legislators in action. Don’t worry about your lobby skills; there will be a brief training on the spot. Contact TC Parsons at 314-556-9267 for more information or to reserve your bus seat.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 02/08/2010

ACTION ALERT
Urge Speaker Richard to assign House Bill 1683 to the Public Safety Committee
HB 1683 is the death-penalty study and execution moratorium bill introduced by Rep Bill Deeken ® and has broad bi-partisan sponsorship. It can’t move forward unless it is assigned to a committee.

Contact his office at:
573-751-2173; Fax 573-526-5813
Ronald.Richard@house.mo.gov

Lobby Day Opportunities
There are 2 lobby days planned in February and March so hopefully your schedule can accommodate one of them.

Tuesday, February 16–ACLU Bill of Rights Lobby Day will address a number of issues from the death penalty to police accountability to reproductive rights. Transportation is free on a first served basis. Breakfast and lunch are provided. Bus leaves the ACLU office (454 N. Whittier) at 7:00 am and returns at 5:30 pm Call Scott for bus reservations at 314.652-3114, ext. 23.

Wednesday, March 17–The Moratorium Now! Coalition will sponsor a moratorium lobby day. Details are being finalized.

250th Exoneree
More evidence of a flawed judicial system came last week when Freddy Peacock was officially exonerated from a rape charge based upon DNA. The New York case was taken up by the Innocence Project.

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

Campaign Update - Week of 01/18/2010

Clemency Petitions

Special thanks to the team that completed half-filled petition sheets at the MLK events so that we can do a petition count for 2009. The team included: Debra White (Justice for Reggie), Barbara Finch (Women’s Voices Raised for Justice) and Maxine Johnson (Life Victory Church).

If you have any completed sheets, please get them to us by January 31. You can drop them in the mailbox at the Rowan Center (1401 Rowan Avenue) or mail it to the Rowan Center.

Legislative Update

Mark your calendar: March 17 is the Moratorium Now! Rally & Lobbying Day.

Details coming.

State Representatives

Do you know who your state senator and state rep is? It’s time to find out because we must at least pass a moratorium bill this session.

–House Bill 1683 to create a moratorium was introduced by Rep. Bill Deeken.
–Senate Bill SB 591 (Sen. Joan Bray, D-St. Louis) would repeal the death penalty.
–House Bill HB 1413 (Rep. Mike McGhee, R-Odessa) would compel counties to cover the cost of prosecuting death-penalty cases and create greater overview of which homicide cases could qualify for seeking a death-sentence.
–House Bill HB 1415 (Rep. Mike McGhee, R-Odessa) would open the Parole board clemency hearing to the person scheduled to be executed and his/her attorneys and require the Board’s findings be made public.
–House Bill 1550 (Rep. Don Calloway, D-St. Louis) would strive to prevent race from playing any role in pursing death sentencing

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

Campaign Update - Week of 01/11/2010

MLK Day…We need you

Join the contingent to march in the Martin Luther King parade. Meet us at the Old Courthouse downtown by 10:00 am on Monday, January 18, 2010. Let’s kick the year off right for Reggie!

Gathering Petitions

We are getting half-filled petitions completed on this day. If you will be at the Old Courthouse or at Powell Symphony Hall and can get signatures for Reggie’s Clemency Petition, please seek us out. On Monday, January 18, 2010, we will be in front of the Courthouse at 10:00 am and in front of Powell Symphony Hall at 12:00 noon. You will be collecting signatures on the INSIDE of those structures as we don’t know what the weather will be like.

Reggie…the struggle for justice continues in 2010.

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