Hasan Shakur’s life is on the line. In just over a month, he is set to be killed by the state of Texas. He has served his time on death row after being lied to about a plea bargain. His confession was coerced, his trial lawyer was incompetent, his jury didn’t have a single peer, and no physical evidence was ever produced (among other things). In short, Shakur’s case is nothing new. How much longer can we justify turning our eyes away from state-sanctioned murder? Go to Hasan Shakur’s website and do what you can to help out. And while you’re there, print out, sign, and get others to sign the voter initiative to stop the death penalty. And be sure to read Shakur’s story. He has history.

Walidah the Bad Sista just published the poem “A Picture’s Worth - for Hasan Shakur” on her blog to celebrate Hasan Shakur’s struggle. Thanks, walidah, for opening my eyes to Shakur’s case.