A Denomination Opposed to Capital Punishment

The Unitarian Universalist Association of Congregations (UUA) has opposed capital punishment since 1961.

At its annual General Assemblies, delegates from congregations throughout the country have repeatedly reaffirmed need to find alternatives to the death penalty.

The UUADP gives witness to the moral position of the Unitarian Universalist faith community.

Our members come from 43 different states. We are grateful for the enthusiastic support we have received from our denomination, particularly the UUA Faith in Action Office for Justice Programs, and the Fund for Unitarian Universalist Social Responsibility

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Seeking Alternatives to the Death Penalty

One of the most shameful aspects of our current criminal justice system is the death penalty.

Studies fail to demonstrate that the death penalty actually deters crime.

Experience shows that judges and juries wrongly convict defendants. Given the number of death row inmates released on account of innocence, it is highly likely that we have executed innocent people and will do so again in the future unless we abolish the death penalty.

Through ongoing congregational education, advocacy, and action, we can make good on our Unitarian Universalist heritage and our American promise to be both compassionate and just to all in our society. Through our diligence and perseverance in realizing this promise, we can live the core values of our country and extend the values of our faith to the benefit of others.

Resources for Allies

The Unitarian Universalists for Alternatives to the Death Penalty are honored to share powerful sermons and stories that advocate for actions better than capital punishment. Please check the resource page for new sermons. These just might inspire you to give a sermon or talk of your own.

Our essays include those from families of murder victims who join their voices in the call to end the death penalty. We offer the words of religious leaders who are oppose the continuation of state-sponsored executions. Read these moving statements on our resources page.

Our links page points to information and activities of other people of faith and social justice organizations who are working to end the death penalty

An Invitation to Participate

You can help end capital punishment.

We invite you to join Unitarian Universalists for Alternatives to the Death Penalty.

We invite you to show your support by obtaining shirts and buttons with our anti-death penalty message.

We invite you to donate your money to help us seek alternatives to capital punishment.

Anti-Dealth Penalty Honor Roll

We honor Unitarian Universalist congregations and organizations who have taken a stand for alternatives to capital punishment.

Check the honor roll.