1960 - 2010, Fifty Righteous Years

May 2, 2010, will mark the 50-year anniversary of Caryl Chessman's execution, an execution that spurred many in California into action against the death penalty. Chessman, a career criminal who had been incarcerated numerous times for robberies and theft, was sentenced to death at age 27.  While in San Quentin he wrote and published four best-selling books and appeared on the cover of TIME magazine. By alerting national and international communities of the issues surrounding capital punishment, his execution began a movement that many activists consider their awakening.

Today, the tide is turning against the death penalty in California. More and more people are convinced that permanent imprisonment ensures swift and certain punishment for those who commit the most serious crimes. Others have come to see that we can free up funds to investigate all murders and give victims’ families equal due by shifting to life in prison. Still others worry about the cost of human error and the increased risk of executing an innocent person under our current flawed and arbitrary system.

The ACLU of Northern California has created a booklet dedicated to the many volunteers, policymakers and family members of murder victims who have called for change over the past five decades. Inside you will find stories and recollections from notable personalities from across California. We hope you will take a moment to look back – and ahead – as we look forward to a world with fairness, justice and security for all.

Click to Download 1960-2010, Fifty Righteous Years

THANK YOU!