What do death row inmates say?
The “We on Death Row” inmates answers obtained over three years of interviews (September, 1997 through January, 2000) contained common themes. First and foremost was their willingness to speak of spirituality, religion and faith that they had discovered or strengthened during their incarceration. Some spoke of the bible, prayer and forgiveness and their eventual place in heaven. Familial ties were important to them, especially contact with and concern for spouses, children, parents and siblings. Most talked about their childhood related to drugs, alcohol and abuse, along with their lives before prison. Some spoke of injustices or their innocence, but most mentioned their desire for the simple things in life: fishing trips, travel, sports, and food. Answers to some of the questions revealed a philosophical side to their answers, most considering themselves changed people by maturity or the prison experience. Why did Benetton want to do the capital punishment debate? Consistent with prev
