Support Innocence Projects: Help Free the Wrongly Incarcerated

Can you imagine being wrongly accused of a crime? And then convicted? What if you then spent 10 years in prison? Or 20? What if you were sentenced to death? Unfortunately many people in the United States are living (and dying) just that scenario. But no one should have to lose their life or years from their life for no cause. Some, including the state of Illinois, argue that the number of innocent people sentenced to death (a punishment that is not reversible) is reason enough to outlaw the death penalty. I agree. But even if you don't, you may still prefer that your tax dollars not be used to incarcerate and kill innocent people.

With the advent of new scientific testing methods, particularly forensic DNA testing, many cases are being reevaluated. Innocent people are being discovered in prisons in every state. Here's how you can help free them:

* Get more information on the death penalty and innocence. Visit www.innocenceproject.org to get started.

* Learn about and support the innocence projects in your state. Visit http://www.ga-innocenceproject.org/links.html to see the complete list.

* Support your local innocence project with your time, money, or other resources. It can be very costly to free the innocent.

* Spread the word. E-mail this post to a friend, or compose your own letter.

Don't make the innocent pay for the sins of the guilty. Insist on justice. 200 innocent people have been freed so far. Who will be next? How will you help?

The formal principle of justice says that in whatever ways are relevant, persons equal in those way should be treated equally. But one can think of justice in many different ways:

*Retributive justice calls for punishment in response to actions that create an imbalance in the social order.

*Procedural justice focuses on "making and implementing decisions according to fair processes that [ideally] ensure "fair treatment."

*Distributive justice refers to a fair, equitable and appropriate distribution of resources, privileges, burdens, and responsibilities.

*Restorative justice focuses on "transforming wrongdoing by healing the harm, particularly to [interpersonal and community] relationships, that is created by harmful behavior." This was the goal of the South African Truth and Reconciliation Commission, formed after the end of legalized apartheid.

Consider these different goals of and methods of achieving justice. Which ones resonate with you? Do your life and lifestyle reflect your personal understanding of justice? What changes can you make to ensure that you live the values you hold? Are you helping uphold the principles of justice for others?

Remember, NO JUSTICE, NO PEACE.