New Yorkers for Clemency
There are nearly 9,000 people serving life sentences in New York State prisons. Many more are serving sentences so long that they will surely die in prison before they are ever even eligible for parole. We offer just a few stories of these individuals and demand that they be granted clemency now.
Many people entered prison when they were teenagers, some as young as 16. Many have already served decades of their sentence, with decades left until release if they survive that long.
In this time they have amassed incredible achievements and transformed the value systems that led to their incarceration.
Many have become respected individuals who mentor younger people inside and outside the prison walls and encourage them to realize their full potential. Their transformation as human beings is clear and inspiring.
Many are elderly. Many are very ill. Most are Black.
The New York State Constitution specifically gives the Governor the absolute power to release any person, at any time, for any reason. This power that Governor Hochul now has is called clemency--specifically a sentence commutation. It is designed for individuals who have transformed themselves over the course of their incarceration and can safely re-enter society.
With families and community members waiting for their return, the continued incarceration of individuals who have met these requirements is a detriment to us all, especially to Black and Brown communities.