Protecting religious rights in prison

To the Times:

On July 23, almost 200 religious leaders of different faiths asked Texas to change its policy banning prison chaplains from execution chambers.

I oppose capital punishment, so in my view ideally no executions would take place. But at a minimum I believe clergy should be permitted to accompany death row inmates to provide solace prior to their executions.

For years, I’ve been a pen pal with a man serving life in prison for a serious crime. A devout Jehovah’s Witness, he maintains a positive attitude despite health problems he and his wife experience, and the often inhumane prison conditions. I believe my friend has reformed his life, and deserves a chance to re-enter the community. However, Jehovah’s Witnesses are particular targets of discrimination or persecution in many nations. Russia is a particular violator of religious liberty. The Jehovah’s Witness faith is banned in Russia, and is deemed a terrorist organization. According to National Review (March 1,

2019), “From September

2017 to January 2019, the church reports the Putin government has mounted

300 raids, mostly of homes. 23 people have been jailed.” Further, the church reports that the authorities “point guns in the faces of Witnesses. “

Even in our nation, it has taken various Supreme Court decisions to protect the religious liberty of faith members. These court decisions include the right to be free from compulsory flag salutes, and the right to preach publicly. Also, the court affirmed their right not to serve in the military.

Finally, I don’t agree with many of their church teachings. Yet, I share their opposition to the violence of legal abortion. I hope our laws will protect the religious liberty of all prisoners, especially the right to have chaplains in the execution chamber. Members of minority, often unpopular faiths such as Jehovah’s Witnesses need special regard and protection.

Tim Donovan, Prospect Park