Death Penalty

On Monday I had the opportunity to sit and experience the Commission on Capital Punishment recently convened by Maryland's General Assembly.   Expert testimony was offered by six witnesses followed by ten members of the public who spoke as well.  Much of the discussion was devoted to the presentation of statistics that prove there are racial, socio-economic, and jurisdictional disparities in relation to capital punishment specifically within the state of Maryland.  However it was the final testimony offered by David Kaczynski and Bill Babbit which brought out the emotions in many attending and sought to show how arbitrary imposition of the death penalty appears to be.    After this riveting testimony the public was allowed to speak.  It was during this time that a variety of opinions were voiced including mine.

Prior to the start of the hearing I signed up to deliver a testimony I had written earlier in the day voicing my opinions about the death penalty as a Marylander.  I utilized some of my knowledge I had learned in a course on civil liberties and my own distinct feelings in support of my argument.  Throughout the whole evening I was very nervous because I knew that time was allowed for questioning and I was fearful that the panel would not take me seriously and question everything I had written.  There were several moments when I considered trying to go cross my name off, but as the evening went on I discovered that what I had to say would be unique and the panel needed to hear it.  I felt I would offer a unique perspective as a college student who was knowledgeable about the issue at hand.  I was so nervous that I didn't look at the members of the commission and focused at the task at hand.  I was told later that after my name was called and I was walking down to the podium that they looked excited to see me and they listened intently to what I was saying.  It was then that I realized that I may be making a difference in Maryland politics as can any other voter in the state of Maryland.

Anyone with the available time should try to attend at least one of the three remaining hearings slated for August 5, August 19, and September 5.  The members of the Commission are taking this issue very seriously as should all Marylanders because the recommendations submitted to the General Assembly could potentially bring change to Maryland.  Also, don't be afraid to testify.  We are lucky to live in a country where the voicing of opinions is not frowned upon, and the same is true at the hearings.  It appeared that the Commission really did want to hear what I had to say.  I have zero regrets about informing the Commission of my reasons I support the abolition of the death penalty in Maryland and other Marylanders should find the time to do the same.  Just remember to speak from the heart.

- Lauren, University of MD student and Amnesty International member