FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 23, 2024

WASHINGTON—In response to President Joe Biden’s decision to commute the death sentences of 37 individuals on federal death row, NETWORK Deputy Executive Director and Chief Equity Officer Joan F. Neal said:

“We at NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice commend President Biden for his historic decision to commute the death sentences of 37 individuals on federal death row. This courageous action reflects his, and our, fundamental belief in the dignity of every human being as created in the image and likeness of our God. The President’s decision affirms that each of us is better than the worst act we may have committed.

“The death penalty is an assault on human dignity, one that Pope Francis calls ‘inadmissible’ in society today. We support and join the longstanding effort of justice-seekers and elected leaders to ban its practice across the country. The United States must pursue a path of restorative justice that balances accountability with compassion.

“Dr. King said that “Power at its best is love implementing the demands of justice, and justice at its best is power correcting everything that stands against love.” With this decision, we laud President Biden for modeling a better way for his successors — and all who oversee the most serious criminal cases — to exercise their power with justice and mercy.”

Founded by Catholic Sisters in 1972, NETWORK is an inclusive, national, Catholic advocacy organization open to all who share our values, working for justice and equity for everyone. For 52 years, NETWORK has educated, organized, and lobbied for federal policies that serve the common good and honor the dignity of all people.

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