We were happy so many of you were able to attend our 32nd Annual Awards Dinner earlier this month at the Skirball Center in Los Angeles. To see all of you in person again was an affirmation that with your support, we will succeed in our efforts to end state killing.
Our honorees, Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, criminal justice advocate Natasha Minsker, “Dead Man Walking” opera composer Jake Heggie and playwright Terrence McNally (accepted posthumously by Tom Kirdahy), powerfully conveyed why they oppose state killing and how the struggle to abolish it is a fight they will continue as long as needed.
With emcee Paula Poundstone, and speakers including DPF President Mike Farrell, Sister Helen Prejean, actress Jane Fonda, Los Angeles District Attorney George Gascón, and Gary Tyler, sentenced to death in Louisiana at 16 for a crime he didn’t commit, and released after almost 42 years in prison, who introduced the 12 exonerees who were in attendance.
With music by the Freedom Singers, it was an uplifting, soul-stirring event that gave every person present a sense of community and solidarity.
If you weren’t able to attend or if you’d like to revisit the evening, we’ve posted photos on our website here.
Thank you all for your support. We couldn’t do what we do without you.