Statement On Capital Punishment

Northampton Friends Meeting

Approved, 17 September, 2000

 

�In keeping with Friends historic testimony against capital punishment, Northampton Friends Meeting (Quaker) is deeply distressed by the repeated attempts in the Massachusetts Legislature to pass a bill providing for a death penalty in this state. In the words of New England Yearly Meeting in 1950, Friends testimony against capital punishment is based on the belief that it is a violation of the sacredness of human personhood: that it disregards the fundamental capacity of all persons to respond to right influences; and that it gives no opportunity to reform the offender.

�We recognize the anger at crime and the fear of becoming victims. Focusing our anger and fear on the accused murderer, however, squanders energy and resources which could be used to build community and root out the causes of violence such as social injustice, poverty, alcohol and drug use and despair. Furthermore, in our zeal for vengeance, we neglect to provide sufficient love and support to the victims' families. Vengeance disguised as justice does not heal wounds or prevent murder. Recognizing this, many relatives of murder victims find healing through the organization "Murder Victims' Families for Reconciliation" while working for prevention of further violence.

�We remind our representatives in the Legislature that "legal" murder does not teach that killing is wrong or respect the sanctity of life. Frustration over specific events should not lead to the violent response of public executions. We call upon our legislators to avoid taking action at a time of high public emotion. We urge the media to stop celebrating violence, and we urge all people to work toward real solutions to end violence and suffering in our communities.