Three weeks from today, the State of Florida plans to execute James Barnes, a man who suffered from sexual and physical abuse as a child, who pled guilty, who waived a jury for sentencing and refused to present mitigation, virtually assuring himself a death sentence. After his execution date was set, he waived any final appeals, and “volunteered” himself for execution.
James Barnes was Baker Acted decades ago – for trying to commit suicide. On August 3, the State will help him do just that.
There is still time to say Not in Our Name. Please sign and share this petition, and for our Faith Leaders, please sign this letter urging Governor DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency to stay James’ execution. You have stepped up for the last four executions this year, and I know you will continue to stand up for James. Take action now.
We are finalizing our statewide list of vigils and protests, please let us know if we have missed any. We hope you will consider attending an event near you, and if you’d like to host or have questions about any event, please email us at [email protected].
Friends, don’t let a handful of politicians convince the world that Floridians want the death penalty. We are no different than anyone else. Together let’s instead show the world that we’re witnessing the last, gasping, desperate breaths of Florida’s death penalty. Thank you for continuing to help us bend the moral arc of the universe towards justice.
Onward,
Maria DeLiberato
FADP Executive Director
P.S. Thanks to you, we have raised nearly $5,000 since launching our Join us at the Mountaintop campaign. If you have not yet made a contribution, please consider a gift today and help us reach our goal of $19,341.