National Weekend of Faith in Action on the Death Penalty


Frequently Asked Questions about the NWFA


Where does it take place?

Everywhere, in local communities throughout the United States! It's not a national conference, it's a local solidarity event organized by people like you.

In 2006, events and activities took place in 46 states and the District of Columbia, in large urban/suburban areas, small rural communities, and everything in between.


Who participates in the NWFA?
Participants typically include:
  • Individual churches, synagogues, mosques, temples and sanghas
  • Interfaith groups or ecumenical organizations
  • Faith leaders
  • Amnesty International local groups
  • High school students (including private religious and public high schools)
  • Seminary students
  • College students
  • Newman centers
  • Peace and justice coalitions
  • Youth groups
  • State/local anti-death penalty coalitions
  • National/state religious organizations
  • Individual activists

Is the NWFA only for those who are opposed to the death penalty?
No, each year participants include both those who oppose the death penalty and want to take action and those who may be uncertain about their position but are open to learning more about the issue and engaging with others in dialogue. The NWFA recognizes the diversity of opinion that exists within individual congregations. This weekend gives everyone a chance to examine the death penalty and to discuss personal views in a safe and comfortable space.

What if my faith community or group already has plans for that weekend in October?
No problem! If your faith community, group, or school has other events scheduled for the weekend of October 19-21, we still encourage you to register for the NWFA so that you can receive the organizing materials. You can then plan your death penalty-related activities for any weekend that is more convenient.

Is there any fee to participate?
No, all of the resources are provided free of charge by Amnesty International USA's Program to Abolish the Death Penalty.

What faith traditions do NWFA participants represent?
In 2006, 549 faith communities, interfaith and human rights groups, coalitions, and individuals participated in the NWFA, representing at least 25 different faith traditions or spiritual practices. These traditions included Catholic, Episcopalian, Presbyterian, United Church of Christ, United Methodist, Unitarian Universalist, Buddhist, Reform Judaism, Baptist, and Quaker, among others. Interfaith groups further enriched the overall diversity of the NWFA.

Where can I learn more about my faith tradition's position on the death penalty?
The Faith in Action Resource Guidebook contains excerpts of statements, resolutions, and positions on the death penalty from nearly 50 religious organizations and faith traditions. Take a look at our links to faith communities or visit www.deathpenaltyreligious.org

What if I don't belong to a faith community or other organization? Can I still participate?

Definitely! The NWFA is open to individual activists/individual people of faith. There are many ways that individuals can participate: you might organize a discussion about the death penalty with friends or family; become a pen pal with someone on death row; watch a film on the death penalty; or write letters to the editor or to elected officials. You can also help spread the word to other people in your community by distributing NWFA brochures or fliers, available from AIUSA.

We encourage all those who are interested in this effort to register, so that you can receive the organizing materials and updates.


What if I don't have the capacity to organize an event or activity but still want to be involved?

As the date of the NWFA approaches, this website will list events/activities taking place throughout the country. Many of these events will be open to the public. Check the website for an event that might be taking place in your community. You can also email NWFA Coordinator Kristin Houlé at khoule@aiusa.org to find out about any events taking place in your area.

You might also approach other people you know about organizing an event. NWFA brochures and fliers are available from AIUSA.