The Coalition to Abolish Death by Incarceration

by Brian Dugas 

I was recently contacted by Lizz Parsons who is with the organization called CADBI, The Coalition to Abolish Death by Incarceration (CADBI) . Their organization is planning a state wide caravan that will start in Pittsburgh and pass through the Wilkes Barre area.

On Wednesday, September 24th at 6:00PM they will be using our church as their meeting place on their caravan, and they hope to draw people from around the region for a discussion and viewing the short documentary of The Man Who Came Home which traces the story of a young Puerto Rican immigrant, Francisco Mojica, finding his way on the streets of Kensington, through three decades in prison, to a devout family man caring for his wife as they age. Mojica’s story captures the cruelty of DBI sentences and highlights the human cost of mass incarceration.

Attendees will meet leaders of the movement to end DBI, engage in discussion about the issue, and learn how to get involved in our movement. When you become a part of our movement you access the knowledge of our collective experiences, resources and emotional support.

Feel free to call Lizz at 570-417-1126 with questions about the event. Attendees are invited to bring a photo or object for the altar of remembrance, honoring those lost to violence.

And since we have mentioned immigration, I want to remind you of the Peace and Justice Centers Annual Gathering/Awards Luncheon on Sunday, September, 21st at 2:00PM at the Apple Tree Terrace, Newberry Estates in Dallas. This year we will be honoring some of the unsung heroes from the Latino population of Wilkes Barre who work behind the scenes to help others in need. Father Fidel from St. Nicks/St Mary’s Parish will be recognized for his unwavering support of the Latino community.

If you would like any additional information on either of these events please speak to me (or Lizz if she is here). Information can be found in the announcements and on the Facebook page, which you should join if you are able.