Interfaith Activism


Faith Communities Working Together Against the Death Penalty


  Sister Helen Prejean
The movement to abolish the death penalty needs the religious community because the heart of religion is about compassion, human rights, and the indivisible dignity of each human person made in the image of God.
-- Sister Helen Prejean
While most countries have abolished the death penalty in law or practice, the United States remains among only a handful of countries with the highest numbers of executions. The United States, China, Iran and Vietnam account for 84% of the known executions carried out in 2003.

In countries around the world where the death penalty has been abolished, communities of faith have been at the forefront of the abolition movement.

Numerous religious groups in the United States have strong positions in opposition to the death penalty. Faith communities can play a unique and vital role in promoting reconciliation as an alternative to violence in all its variations. Put your faith into action.


If you believe that killing is wrong, start working to abolish the death penalty:

Sign up Today for the National Weekend of Faith in Action Against the Death Penalty - October 22-24, 2004
The NWFA is an opportunity for communities throughout the country to devote a weekend to reflect, discuss, and take action on abolishing the death penalty within the context of their own faith traditions.
Beyond the NWFA: How your faith community can get involved
There are many ways that your faith community can become a part of the international abolition movement throughout the year. From discussion groups to going out and lobbying local officials, find out how your community can get involved.
What has your faith community said about the death penalty?
Many faith-based communities and organizations in the United States have spoken out against the death penalty through public statements and resolutions. Find out what different groups in the United States have said, and how your community can pass a resolution opposing the death penalty.
The Death Penalty is not a solution
The death penalty is discriminatory, used disproportionately against the poor, minorities and members of racial, ethnic and religious communities. The death penalty legitimizes an irreversible act of violence by the state and will inevitably claim innocent victims.