Oregonians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty (OADP) applauds the decision of Governor John Kitzhaber to halt the scheduled execution of Gary Haugen and his call for a full examination of the Oregon death penalty
This action, while courageous on the part of Governor Kitzhaber, also is in line with movement across this country for states to either repeal their death penalty, lessen the use of the death penalty and / or create opportunities to study the death penalty. Governor Kitzhaber has shown great leadership with this announcement.
Our organization, along with ACLU-Oregon, Amnesty International and the Oregon Capitol Resource Center had petitioned the Governor to take such actions. We are particularly pleased that a full and comprehensive examination of the death penalty, as public policy will take place. We are aware that the Governor has given this topic enormous consideration. We feel that he has done the right thing and wish to express our appreciation.
OADP has been involved in a very strenuous coalition-building campaign for the past 18 months, based primarily on an effort to educate the electorate on all the issues that surround having a death penalty. The action that the Governor has just called for will greatly elevate the opportunity for a full examination and discussion.
It is our contention that when all the facts are known, it is difficult to support a death penalty. It is a failed public policy, extremely expensive, taking valuable resources from other programs that do deter violent crime. In these modern times, when we have the ability to keep violent criminals safely away from the general public, an option like life without parole makes more sense.
We look forward to being a part of the upcoming discussion and invite all Oregon citizens to join with us in making this state a more peaceful place. The statesman-like move by the Governor today is a big step in that direction.
Ron Steiner
OADP Board and Outreach Chair
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