Summary
Organization name
Ministry Against the Death Penalty
Tax id (EIN)
04-3588640
Address
3009 Grand Rte. St. John #6New Orleans, LA 70119
The Ministry Against the Death Penalty recognizes that the criminal justice system in the US disproportionately affects poor people and people of color, and that the abolition of capital punishment and reform of the prison system are necessary to bring about systemic change. We believe in the dignity and rights of all persons and recognize that government-sanctioned killing and the practice of torture is a violation of those rights and a denial of human dignity.
The Ministry Against the Death Penalty (MADP) was founded by Sister Helen Prejean, author of Dead Man Walking, the book that changed the conversation about the death penalty in the USA. This year will see publication of a graphic version of Dead Man Walking, which we hope will inspire a new generation to ponder big questions about human rights and justice.
We work closely with victims' families, inmates and their families, prison officers, lawyers, and civil rights activists. We know from experience that the death penalty causes harm to all those affected by it, not just those condemned to die. We are committed to promoting compassionate alternatives to the death penalty, including restorative justice and funding for victims' services.
Testimonials
"Reading Dead Man Walking changed the trajectory of my life, and led me to become a civil rights lawyer." - Carrie L.
"In times of injustice, we need more role models like Sister Helen Prejean." - Benjamin A.
Mission
The Ministry Against the Death Penalty (MADP) works to end capital punishment by fostering creative, reflective and educational programs that awaken hearts and minds, inspire social change, and strengthen our democracy’s commitment to human rights.
Our mission is founded on a set of core values and beliefs:
- We believe in the dignity and rights of all persons and recognize that government-sanctioned killing and the practice of torture is a violation of those rights and a denial of human dignity.
- We believe capital punishment is never an appropriate solution for any crime.
- We believe the death penalty causes harm to all those affected by it, including victims’ families and prison officers as well as the condemned and their families.
- We are committed to promoting compassionate alternatives to the death penalty, including restorative justice and funding for victims’ services.
- We believe that the criminal justice system in the United States disproportionately affects poor people and people of color. We believe that prison reform and the abolition of capital punishment will support necessary systemic change.
- We believe that respectful discourse and critical reflection encourage individuals to become more active, engaged citizens.
Media gallery
Organization Data
New Orleans, LA 70119