An Examination of the Death Penalty

The Arcadia University Amnesty International student group and Pennsylvanians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty invite you to join us for an examination of Pennsylvania’s death penalty. The evening includes a screening of the documentary, In the Executioner’s Shadow, an update on our state’s system of capital punishment, a group discussion, and an opportunity to help end the death penalty. This free event is open to the public, but please do register in advance.

Pizza will be provided courtesy of Arcadia Amnesty International student group.

In the Executioner’s Shadow takes a penetrating look at the consequences of the death penalty through three powerful stories. A former state executioner comes within days of executing an innocent person; a Boston Marathon bombing victim struggles to decide what justice really means; the parents of a murder victim choose to fight for the life of their daughter’s killer. This film challenges viewers to question their deepest beliefs about justice.

The Study Commission on Capital Punishment in Pennsylvania released its long-awaited report in June of 2018. It highlighted numerous systemic flaws in the administration of the death penalty, including the risk of executing an innocent person. The study found that the problems with our death penalty system persist, despite years of trying to “improve” it. The issues include racial and geographic disparities, inadequate defense counsel for poor defendants, and high costs to taxpayers.

Let’s talk.