US Catholic anti-death penalty movement celebrates 15 years, faces crucial time

Welcome to the 15th anniversary celebration of Catholic Mobilizing Network (CMN), the leading Catholic anti-death penalty advocacy organization in the United States. As we reflect on the past 15 years of advancements, we are filled with hope and momentum to bring an end to capital punishment across the country.

Written by Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy, Catholic Mobilizing Network*

Over the past decade and a half, CMN has been mobilizing Catholics to stand against the death penalty, promote justice, and foster healing in the United States. We have reached a critical point where we believe that the United States is moving towards abolishing the death penalty – the speed at which this happens is in our hands.

Celebrating 15 years of progress

As a lay-led organization, we are proud to be the only national, faith-based group dedicated full-time to ending capital punishment in the U.S. On October 10, CMN commemorates its 15th anniversary on the World Day Against the Death Penalty. In recent years, Catholic advocacy efforts have led to significant advancements in the abolition movement.

Since our founding in 2009, nine new states have abolished the death penalty. Currently, 29 states have either formally outlawed capital punishment or halted executions. A deeper examination reveals that 36 out of the 50 states have abolished the death penalty or not carried out an execution in over a decade. The momentum is undeniably in favor of abolition.

With the strong support of tens of thousands of Catholics, CMN has been able to influence state decision-makers, oppose imminent executions, and advocate for anti-death penalty legislation. In 2018, inspired by Pope Francis, the Catechism of the Catholic Church was revised to declare the death penalty as “inadmissible”. CMN has been instrumental in amplifying this message and empowering ministry leaders to advocate for justice rooted in healing rather than retribution.

The current state of affairs

While progress has been made, there is still much work to be done. Twenty-one states in the U.S. still have death penalty statutes in place, leading to recent instances of injustice and cruelty in the system. However, there are signs of change:

• Over 200 individuals in the U.S. have been exonerated and released from death row since 1973.
• For the first time, more Americans believe the death penalty is applied unfairly rather than fairly according to a 2024 Gallup Crime Survey.
• The influential New York Times has published an opinion rejecting the necessity of the death penalty.

The pivotal role of Catholics

Catholics, recognizing the immorality and inhumanity of the death penalty, are uniquely positioned to lead the charge for abolition. With a substantial presence and moral authority, Catholics hold sway in states where the death penalty is still prevalent. Research shows that nearly 80% of Catholics are open to supporting legislation to end capital punishment.

CMN strategically engages Catholics in regions where the death penalty persists, promoting education, advocacy, and prayer for repeal legislation. Through collaboration with key stakeholders, CMN plays an integral role in the movement for abolition at both state and federal levels.

Looking towards the future

As we strive towards a future free of capital punishment, Catholics remain committed to upholding the sanctity of life and advocating for justice rooted in mercy. The journey may be long and challenging, but our faith and perseverance drive us forward.

Together, as a united Catholic voice, we will continue to work, pray, and advocate for the abolition of the death penalty in the United States. Our hope and faith sustain us as we walk in the light of the Gospel.

* Headquartered in Washington, D.C., Catholic Mobilizing Network mobilizes Catholics and people of goodwill to end the death penalty, advance justice solutions, and promote healing through restorative justice practices. To join the movement, visit catholicsmobilizing.org.