Opposing Executions

As a faith-driven advocate, you have the power to stop state-sanctioned killing.

Advocates for Mercy

In the United States, where dozens of execution dates are scheduled each year, it’s crucial for Catholics to stand together as advocates against these threats to human life. Representing 22% of the U.S. population, Catholics hold significant moral influence capable of rousing public opposition to upcoming executions and even swaying legal outcomes in capital cases.

Simply put, Catholic pro-life witness has the potential to halt executions and save lives. That’s why we’re harnessing the power of Catholic advocacy to speak out against every impending execution in the United States.

You Can Be An Advocate

Every month, we’ll send you timely advocacy actions, keeping you informed about upcoming cases that need your urgent attention. Subscribers are invited to write letters directly to those in positions of power who are capable of halting upcoming executions.

It’s easy to make your voice heard with just a few clicks.

Sign up for execution alerts.

Don’t Wait: Help Stop an Execution Now

There are people scheduled for execution who need your advocacy. Take action now to stop these acts of state-sanctioned violence.

  • STOP the Execution of Melvin Trotter

    *Note: CMN continues to work with legal representatives and local advocates to understand how to best support Mr. Trotter’s case. This action will be updated as more information becomes available.* Please contact Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency urging them to grant clemency to Melvin Trotter, and stop his execution. Florida…
  • Support Clemency for Charles “Sonny” Burton

    Please contact Governor Kay Ivey and the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles urging them to grant clemency to Charles “Sonny” Burton. Charles “Sonny” Burton has a death sentence in Alabama and will soon petition the Governor and the state Board of Pardons and Paroles for clemency. At this time, the state has not yet…
  • STOP the Execution of Ronald Heath

    Please contact Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Board of Executive Clemency urging them to grant clemency to Ronald Heath, and stop his execution. Florida intends to execute Ronald Heath on February 10, 2026 for the 1989 murder of Michael Sheridan. We oppose this execution as we do every execution. Capital punishment is an act…
  • STOP the Execution of Kendrick Simpson

    Please contact Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt urging him to stop the execution of Kendrick Simpson. Oklahoma intends to execute Kendrick Simpson on February 12 for the 2006 murder of Glen Palmer and Anthony Jones We oppose this execution as we do every execution. Capital punishment is an act of state sanctioned violence that violates the…

What is clemency?

When someone is granted clemency, their sentence is either reduced or they are granted a total pardon.

For many people on death row, the request for clemency is to reduce their sentence from the death penalty to life in prison without the chance of parole. Applying for clemency is often one of the last efforts someone facing execution can make to spare their life, even after all appeals have been exhausted.

How is clemency granted?

The procedures for granting clemency vary by state. Generally, an application for clemency will first go to a board of pardons and paroles. The board’s decision will then be referred to a governor.

Clemency is not frequently granted in capital cases. On the occasions that it is, it is typically because of mental illness, poor legal representation, or possibility of wrongful conviction.

Death Penalty News

Browse the latest news from CMN plus the national movement to end the death penalty.

  • Death Penalty Quarterly | January 2026

    2025 held both setbacks and progress in the movement to end the death penalty. CMN’s webinar hosted on January 21 — The State of the Death Penalty in 2026: Trends, Realities, Advocacy — was a chance to…
  • Death Penalty Quarterly | October 2025

    In the last few months, we’ve heard much about the death penalty on the national stage. As we reflect on the past quarter, this report highlights key trends, analysis and developments shaping the conversation across…
  • World Day Against the Death Penalty 2025 Events

    October 10 is “World Day Against the Death Penalty,” a day where people across the globe will gather to oppose capital punishment.  Here in the U.S, faith-based events scattered across the country on October 10…
  • Death Penalty Quarterly | July 2025

    With a recent uptick in executions and states pursuing the use of capital punishment in new ways, understanding the deeper forces at play is more important now than ever. 2025 is a pivotal moment in…

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