Fax Transmittal
In the December 24 issue of the Chicago Sun-Times Michael Sneed reported:
In case you are wondering, here's a list of some celebs who signed a letter urging
Gov. Ryan to commute the death sentences.
"We wish you Godspeed," wrote Lucie Arnaz, Edward Asner, Barbara Bosson, Blair
Brown, Peter Coyote, Ted Danson, Ossie Davis, Ruby Dee, Olympia Dukakis, Richard
Dreyfuss, Anthony Edwards, Shelley Fabares, Morgan Fairchild, Mike Farrell, Melissa
Gilbert, Danny Glover, Ken Howard, Laurence Luckinbill, Kent McCord, Paula
Poundstone, Mary Steenburgen, Noah Wyle, Alec Baldwin, E.L. Doctorow, Anjelica
Huston, Camryn Manheim, Susan Sarandon, Diahann Carroll and Peter Yarrow
Supporter Bob Wakfer from Waterloo, Ontario Canada on
Tue Dec 24 17:31:12 EST 2002 says:
" I think Ryan deserves the NPP for his ground breaking
work on the death penalty. "
Supporter Francis A. Boyle from Champaign, Illinois, USA
on Tue Dec 24 17:57:40 EST 2002 says:" Godspeed! "
Supporter Gail Conrad from Ontario, Canada on Tue Dec 24
18:35:38 EST 2002 says:
" More people like Governor Ryan would ensure the insanity of
the death penalty in the United States would cease. "
Supporter Stephen F Rohde from Los Angeles, CA, USA on
Tue Dec 24 19:02:24 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Abraham J. Bonowitz from Jupiter, Florida USA
on Tue Dec 24 19:06:02 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Meegan Lee Potter from Woodacre, CA 94973, USA
on Tue Dec 24 19:06:29 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Pam Dyer from Ste-Marie-Madeleine, QC, Canada
on Tue Dec 24 19:48:55 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Stephen Dear from Carrboro, NC, USA on Tue Dec
24 19:59:39 EST 2002 says:
" Gov. Ryan's honesty about the filthy, rotten death
penalty system has been a rare example of political
courage in the United States. His actions have fuelled
the movement for a moratorium across the Southern United
States. He deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter David Seth Michaels from Spencertown, New York
on Tue Dec 24 22:54:48 EST 2002 says:
Phone: 1-217-333-7954
Fax: 1-217-244-1478
Email: committee@stopcapitalpunishment.org
Website: http://www.stopcapitalpunishment.org
2
Supporter Venerable Kobutsu Malone, zenji from Ramsey,
NJ USA on Wed Dec 25 03:49:46 EST 2002 says:
" I am in support of the nomination of Governor Ryan for
the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter The Coalition for Truth and Justice from
Lillois - Belgium on Wed Dec 25 16:35:17 EST 2002 says:
" Belgian abolitionists support Gov Ryan for the Nobel
Peace Price "
Supporter Brian Crowther from Leeds, West Yorkshire,
United Kingdom on Wed Dec 25 19:25:13 EST 2002 says:
" Any action by an individual or an organisation to
bring about an end to the inhumane barbarity that is
state-sanctioned killing is a positive enhancement of
the fundamental worth of society. As an abolitionist and
long-time human rights activist I commend Governor Ryan."
Supporter Sandrine Ageorges from Asnières, France on Thu
Dec 26 10:16:28 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Sal Pringle from Guildford, Surrey, UK. on Thu
Dec 26 10:57:42 EST 2002 says:
" To be the first to stand up and admit that you're
wrong, to publicly admit that the very system you work
with is rotten, takes untold courage. There could be no
greater example to Governor Ryan's compatriots and successors."
Supporter Susan McBride from Nashville, TN USA on Thu
Dec 26 11:32:31 EST 2002 says:
Supporter William P. Redick, Jr. from Whites Creek,
Tennessee, USA on Thu Dec 26 12:27:44 EST 2002 says:
" I support Gov. Ryan's nomination for the Nobel Peace
Prize Bill Redick "
Supporter from on Thu Dec 26 14:28:57 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Ms Fabian Gastellier from Colorado Springs,
Colorado, USA on Thu Dec 26 14:33:07 EST 2002 says:
" Next winner or not, Governor Ryan has clearly showed
the way of intelligence, compassion, justice. He is a
hero, whatever the outcome.. And when The United States
will abolish the Death Penalty [because it will come,
one day or another], I hope that everybody will remember
his name and action. Sincerely, F.G "
Supporter Nancy Claar from Claysburg, Pa. usa on Thu Dec
26 14:57:03 EST 2002 says:
" I have been an avid admirer of Gov. Ryan for a long
time. He is the one politician in the USA that I can
truthfully say has an honest and caring heart. What he
did for the men on Death Row was way beyond the call of
duty. He truly cares. He deserves all the credit in the
world for being a wonderful and honest Christian person."
3
Supporter William Monroe from Soledad, Ca. USA on Thu
Dec 26 15:00:26 EST 2002 says:
" If we had more men like Gov. Ryan in the United States
political system we would be a wonderful country. God
bless him for having the strength to stand against the
wrong aspects of death penalty. "
Supporter OutsideLookingIn4U Prison Support Group from
Internet.world wide on Thu Dec 26 15:02:47 EST 2002 says:
" We heartily support Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace
Prize. He is worthy. "
Supporter Karen Richey from Glasgow, Scotland on Thu Dec
26 16:06:23 EST 2002 says:
" Governor Ryan has shown courage and dignity in saying
the system is broken so publicly. i support the
nomination for nobel peace prize fully and totally. "
Supporter Debra Barton from Southend,United Kingdom on
Thu Dec 26 16:18:19 EST 2002 says:
" Well done to Gov Ryan for having the strength and
honesty to admit that the system he works within has
failed. And to make a clear and dedicated attempt to
correct that system and preventing any more innocents
being sent to their deaths. I wish him all the best in
his future and strongly support his nomination for the
Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Joy Ayllon from Arkansas City, KS on Thu Dec
26 16:42:36 EST 2002 says:
" Gov. Ryan should be a roll model ALL the other
governors about how to have human compassion for
mankind. "
Supporter Bonnie Caraway from Hardin, Texas 77561 USA on
Thu Dec 26 16:45:24 EST 2002 says:
" You bet I do support Gov. Ryan...He should be rewarded
for standing up to what is right...He has shown everyone
that he is not afraid to do the right thing even if he
gets ridiculed for it ..A very special man, this
Governor... I salute him...In his fight against the
capital punishment. He should receive this award more
than anyone I can think of.. "
Supporter Sandy Lamarr from South Roxana, IL USA on Thu
Dec 26 16:58:21 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Claudia Etheridge from Munich / Germany on Thu
Dec 26 17:03:55 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Patricia Rozumialski from Milwaukee, Wisconsin
USA on Thu Dec 26 17:09:12 EST 2002 says:
" Governor Ryan is the only logical choice, he took an
unpopular stand and for this he should be commended. "
Supporter Sabine Hauer from Vienna, Austria on Thu Dec
26 17:46:01 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Christian Hauer from Vienna, Austria on Thu
Dec 26 17:46:18 EST 2002 says:
4
Supporter Myriam Stubbe from Braine l'Alleud Belgium on
Thu Dec 26 17:50:56 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Larry Monticolo from Cleveland Texas 77327 on
Thu Dec 26 17:50:57 EST 2002 says:
" Indeed, this man deserves the Nobel Prize and much
more...A man of great courage and honesty... "
Supporter stefano campani from reggio emilia, italy on
Thu Dec 26 19:03:21 EST 2002 says:
" death penalty is unfair and cruel. people who fight
for human rights need to be supported by institutions.
it's very important what Governor Ryan is doing. "
Supporter Hannah Floyd from Starke Florida, USA on Thu
Dec 26 19:24:54 EST 2002 says:
" Killing is wrong. God bless this man who in spite of
political and personal views on capital punishment had
the courage to DO THE RIGHT THING. we cannot kill all
that is not well. we have to heal it! we are all part of
a great big whole. "
Supporter Brian Halderman from Dayton, Ohio, USA on Thu
Dec 26 19:45:32 EST 2002 says:
" Thanks to Governor Ryan we are closer to abolition of
state sanctioned execution. I am supportive of Governor
Ryan's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Mike Farrell from Los Angeles, California,
U.S.A. on Thu Dec 26 19:50:09 EST 2002 says:
" An elected politician in the U.S.A. who is willing to
listen to his or her conscience and act on its dictates
despite popular opposition and danger to his or her
career is an exceedingly rare commodity today. Governor
George Ryan's actions with regard to capital punishment
over the past three years have exemplified the highest
principles one could hope to see made manifest in a
public servant. He is a man of great moral courage and
deserves to be recognized by the Nobel Committee. "
Supporter Harry S. Coverston from Orlando, Florida USA
on Thu Dec 26 20:05:21 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Aaron Wilton from Lafayette, CA, USA on Thu
Dec 26 21:19:19 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Tina Blach from Vienna/Austria/Europe on Fri
Dec 27 02:37:56 EST 2002 says:
Supporter umberto ghiron from italy on Fri Dec 27
03:53:11 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Anna Pakvis from Uppsala, Sweden on Fri Dec 27
05:01:20 EST 2002 says:
" Start with fair trials, and stop the murders of so
many innocent inmates!!! "
Supporter Anna Pakvis from Uppsala, Sweden on Fri Dec 27
05:03:41 EST 2002 says:
" Go Ryan!!! "
5
Supporter Giorgio Nobili from Milano - Italia on Fri Dec
27 08:35:02 EST 2002 says:
" Governor Ronnie Musgrove Office of the Governor PO Box
139 Jackson, MS 39205 Hi, I'm writing from Milan, Italy
to ask you a commutation of Foster's sentence. Foster
grew up in a dysfunctional family defined by rampant
alcoholism. His older brothers served as mentors and he
began drinking at the age of 12; but his attorneys
failed to present that information, only mentioning that
he was intoxicated at the time of the murder.
Furthermore, no witnesses other than his parents
testified in regard to his upbringing, and the defence
never thoroughly investigated his psychiatric condition.
This raises two issues: first, the state should spare
Foster's life because of mitigating circumstances; and
second, the courts should remand the sentence because of
ineffective assistance of counsel. I hope you will join
the rest of the civilized world by banning juvenile
executions. Best regards. Giorgio Nobili Via Piolti de'
Bianchi 27 20129 Milano Italia phone: +39-027492588 "
Supporter Nick Bell from Switzerland on Fri Dec 27
09:32:16 EST 2002 says:
Supporter ANTHONY CARAWAY from HARDIN.TEXAS,U.S.A. on
Fri Dec 27 10:20:46 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Randy Tatel from Nashville, TN USA on Fri Dec
27 11:40:34 EST 2002 says:
" This individual is a pivotal historical figure re:
ending the death penalty in the U.S. "
Supporter Alessandra Ruberti from Siena - Italy on Fri
Dec 27 12:14:35 EST 2002 says:
" We were made to hope. We'll always remind you. "
Supporter Sheila Glock from Hammond, Indiana, USA on Fri
Dec 27 12:39:15 EST 2002 says:
" Gov. Ryan has stood up for what he believes in. We
cannot kill one more person who might be innocent.
Killing one person is one person too many. God bless
Gov. Ryan! "
Supporter Phil Tobias from Boulder, CO on Fri Dec 27
12:44:47 EST 2002 says:
" It is past time to end the barbaric practice of
capital punishment. As Gov. Ryan noticed, the system is
also so fraught with errors that real "justice" is
impossible. Let's do the right thing -- end the death
penalty. "
Supporter Michele Baier from 3614 Meadowbrook Avenue,
Nashville, Tn 37205 on Fri Dec 27 13:37:35 EST 2002
says:
Supporter James Smith from Kitchener, Ontario, Canada on
Fri Dec 27 16:03:25 EST 2002 says:
6
Supporter Paula Skilliocorn from Potosi, MO 64664 on Fri
Dec 27 18:29:23 EST 2002 says:
" George Ryan is a brave individual who was not afraid
to do the right thing. So many others acknowledge that
innocent people are being sentenced to death, but few
are willing to risk their political careers by appearing
to be "soft on crime." Gov. Ryan knows that you can be
tough on crime and tough on criminals without committing
state sponsored homicide, especially when there is a
great risk of executing and innocent person. He should
be honored for his hard work to ensure truth and real
justice. "
Supporter Kimberly Thompson from LaCrosse, WI USA on Sat
Dec 28 01:21:43 EST 2002 says:
" A man of courage, bravery and conscious, Gov. Ryan has
taken this stand against all popular sentiment reminding
a nation of what WE are about. He has done the next
right thing. "
Supporter Francesco Peccerillo from Napoli Italia on Sat
Dec 28 02:58:26 EST 2002 says:
" I am very happy to contribute for Nobel prize to Gov.
Ryan "
Supporter The Coalition For Truth & Justice from France
on Sun Dec 29 14:29:55 EST 2002 says:
" An example to be followed by many ... "
Supporter The International Bannister Foundation from
France on Sun Dec 29 14:36:07 EST 2002 says:
" That's how the USA can join at 100% the Democratic
World ... it'd be a very big step for this great nation
that has got so much resources & showed it after the
events of the Sep. 11th, 2001 ... "
Supporter Veronique Bessonnet-Giroux from France on Sun
Dec 29 14:41:29 EST 2002 says:
" It'd be Justice ... may his awareness be the start of
the entire nation's one ... "
Supporter Jessica Dardeen from Marshall, Illinois,
United States on Sun Dec 29 15:53:19 EST 2002 says:
" I commend Governor Ryan's efforts to expose the flaws
in the Illinois Death Penalty system. I hope he leaves
his legacy by commuting the sentences of all those
currently on death row in Illinois. I also fee he would
be very deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter fiona smith from Great Britain on Sun Dec 29
20:38:45 EST 2002 says:
" I commend Governor Ryan for his brave action. >>>May
this be the turning point. "
Supporter fiona smith from Great Britain on Sun Dec 29
20:38:46 EST 2002 says:
" I commend Governor Ryan for his brave action. >>>May
this be the turning point. "
7
Supporter Tracy Carothers Demps from Vancouver, British
Columbia, Canada on Sun Dec 29 20:41:14 EST 2002 says:
" Governor Ryan has taken a courageous stand for life
over death - against the status quo. His bravery in the
face of a mighty opposition should be recognized. Few
are as worthy. I support Governor George H. Ryan for the
Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter shirley dicks from Beechgrove, Tennessee USA
on Sun Dec 29 20:45:43 EST 2002 says:
" I think Governor is doing a great job and deserves a
lot of credit for doing what is right even though it's
most unpopular and so many people are against his
overturning any of the death row sentences "
Supporter Mary Maggard from Pampa Texas, USA on Sun Dec
29 20:47:39 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Shakeerah Haikal from Wilmington, DE USA on
Sun Dec 29 20:53:10 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Randall L. Wheeler from Versailles, Kentucky,
USA on Sun Dec 29 20:56:44 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Karin M. Lau from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma on
Sun Dec 29 21:03:12 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Deann Roberts from Jacksonville, Arkansas, USA
on Sun Dec 29 21:07:00 EST 2002 says:
" He should win the NPP. We must find a way to bring
this evil and uncivilized way of solving problems to an end! "
Supporter Matthias Wippich from Bochum, Germany on Sun
Dec 29 21:08:47 EST 2002 says:
" The "German Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty"
support Gov. Ryan's nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Jackie Bowers from Marion,Ohio------USA on Sun
Dec 29 21:16:00 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Marijke Augusteijn from Colorado Springs,
Colorado, USA on Sun Dec 29 21:35:24 EST 2002 says:
" Governor Ryan stands for justice in a most courageous
way. He fully deserves the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Jon Gladwell, Ph.D. from Beaverton, Oregon,
USA on Sun Dec 29 21:40:01 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Teresa L.
Dec 29
" A man with Ryan's
right in support of
the unpopularity
deserves
Norris from Columbia, SC, USA on Sun
21:58:28 EST 2002 says:
courage and willingness to do what's
peace and human rights regardless of
and cost to his political career
the Nobel Peace prize. "
Supporter Tonya Sneed from Peoria, IL, United States on
Sun Dec 29 22:58:16 EST 2002 says:
" Any political leader who crosses party lines to do
something that isn't popular does it out of conscience.
Such acts of courage are rare among politicians.
Governor Ryan is a hero because through the moratorium
he has put people's lives above his own political gain."
8
Supporter Paula Ann Davis from Mobile, Alabama, USA on
Sun Dec 29 23:26:07 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Chantal Heimo from Zurich, Switzerland on Sun
Dec 29 23:50:39 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Simone Abegg - Du Bois from Geneva,
Switzerland on Mon Dec 30 03:26:25 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Maartje Kok - de Bruyn from Amsterdam, the
Netherlands on Mon Dec 30 03:32:42 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Kees Kok from Amsterdam, the Netherlands on
Mon Dec 30 03:33:23 EST 2002 says:
Supporter françoise Morgan from Tervuren, Belgium on Mon
Dec 30 05:50:01 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Linda Adams from Cambridge, England on Mon Dec
30 06:13:07 EST 2002 says:
" I believe Governor Ryan deserves this nomination
because he has demonstrated to the world that the death
penalty is flawed and has shown great courage in his
attempts to get something done about it. "
Supporter Mandy Hampson from London, UK on Mon Dec 30
07:31:39 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Victor A. Perez from Miami, FL, USA on Mon Dec
30 09:44:07 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Suzanne Miller from Alexandria, Virginia on
Mon Dec 30 10:14:32 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Carolyn Burke, CB News from De Soto, Missouri
United States on Mon Dec 30 10:35:46 EST 2002 says:
" The death penalty is not the answer. So many have been
executed and they are not even guilty of a crime.
Killing people is insane. Some evidence is not even
allowed to be seen in court and this could set a man
free. Stop this killing of our people. "
Supporter Brenda Gamlin from East Bergholt, Colchester,
UK on Mon Dec 30 13:35:28 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Susan Witterick from London, England on Mon
Dec 30 13:50:00 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Kathy Anderson Foster from Belleville,
Illinois,USA on Mon Dec 30 15:10:15 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Scott Taylor from Akron, Ohio USA on Mon Dec
30 15:58:53 EST 2002 says:
Supporter John Adams from Ely, Cambs. England on Mon Dec
30 16:13:20 EST 2002 says:
Supporter J. Almond from March, England on Mon Dec 30
16:13:59 EST 2002 says:
9
Supporter Karl H. Rodenberg from Bueckeburg, Germany on
Mon Dec 30 17:42:46 EST 2002 says:
" As a long-time abolitionist and human rights activist
I commend Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Jean Lynn from La Verne, CA 91750 on Mon Dec
30 18:22:05 EST 2002 says:
" As civilization advances society must find better ways
of solving their problems. Ending the death penalty is a
major step in this direction. The Governor deserves to
win the Nobel Peace Prize for taking such a bold and
controversial step. "
Supporter Isabel Chavez from El Monte, CA, USA on Mon
Dec 30 18:33:24 EST 2002 says:
Supporter K. Bandell from Norwalk, California, United
States of America on Mon Dec 30 18:48:20 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Tom Ginsburg from Urbana IL USA on Mon Dec 30
21:08:02 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Cynthia Knuts from Brussels - Belgium on Mon
Dec 30 21:35:10 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Francesco Cavallaro from Florence, Italy on
Mon Dec 30 21:36:03 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Jeffrey Blankfort from Ukiah, California, USA
on Mon Dec 30 21:43:55 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Richard Walsh from Forfar Angus Scotland on
Tue Dec 31 02:57:31 EST 2002 says:
" In my view there is a much better chance of peace
within nations if capital punishment is abolished.
Capital punishment reduces the 'state' to the same level
as those perpetrating their capital crimes. Abolition
also gives some protection to those wrongly convicted. "
Supporter Petra E. Richter from Bocholt, Germany on Tue
Dec 31 04:27:58 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Amy Greene from London, England on Tue Dec 31
06:13:27 EST 2002 says:
" Anyone who makes a stand against the death penalty and
tries to save lives and infinite pain to many families
is deserving of the nobel peace prize. "
Supporter Bill Pelke from Anchorage, Alaska on Tue Dec
31 06:35:47 EST 2002 says:
" Life is our most sacred right. Governor George Ryan
has not acted as a politician, but as a statesman. The
answer is love and compassion for all of humanity. "
Supporter Christine Short from United Kingdom on Tue Dec
31 08:57:58 EST 2002 says:
" Thank you from the bottom of my heart "
10
Supporter Karen Tonkin from Mackay, Queensland,
Australia on Tue Dec 31 09:45:30 EST 2002 says:
" Governor Ryan is to be highly commended on his
ground-breaking work and his ongoing work deserves
Global recognition. "
Supporter Karin Elsea from Silver Spring, Maryland 20910
on Tue Dec 31 09:53:40 EST 2002 says:
" I would like to nominate Governor George Ryan for the
Nobel Peace Prize. Karin Elsea "
Supporter Jeffrey M. Gamso from Toledo, Ohio, USA on Tue
Dec 31 10:18:45 EST 2002 says:
" Governor Ryan saw a great and evil injustice, saw he
had the power to do something about it, and did so. His
action did more than temporarily stop a number of
executions. It showed that political courage and
leadership counts. And it gave others the courage to do
the same. I support his candidacy for the Nobel Peace
Prize. "
Supporter Debra Sabah Press from Berkeley, CA, USA on
Tue Dec 31 12:36:53 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Laura Pedicini from Newman, CA on Tue Dec 31
13:30:55 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Giuseppe Lodoli from Rome - Italy on Tue Dec
31 13:42:22 EST 2002 says:
Supporter John Harris from Pasadena, California on Tue
Dec 31 13:42:55 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Susan Leff, Attorney at Law from San
Francisco, California, United States of America on Tue
Dec 31 14:34:40 EST 2002 says:
" I would like to register my support for Governor Ryan
to be awarded the prestigious Nobel Peace Prize. As a
Deputy Public Defender for the past 7 years, I know
firsthand the intense political pressure put on
politicians to strive for more and more punishment in
the criminal justice system. It is almost a rite of
passage for American politicians to scapegoat the poor
and underprivileged, and more often than not, those
accused of crime fir into both categories. By fighting
the political machine and seeking a moratorium on the
death penalty, Governor Ryan gives all those who fight
for freedom, truth and justice the hope that there can
truly be change, and that the wheels of justice need not
blindly grind over our clients. "
Supporter Elizabeth Mc from on Tue Dec 31 22:57:37 EST
2002 says:
Supporter Elizabeth McDermott from Pendleton, NY, usa on
Tue Dec 31 22:59:52 EST 2002 says:
Supporter Mary Robinson from Seattle, WA, USA on Wed Jan
1 00:49:04 EST 2003 says:
11
Supporter Fabio Pennini from Piacenza, Italy (Europe) on
Wed Jan 1 08:57:24 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lisa Dawn Ratte from Gallatin, TN USA on Wed
Jan 1 11:13:14 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan has done more than any politician to show
how wrong the death penalty and the justice system is.
At a time when our own president would be against him.
That took guts, and I would be in favour of his winning
the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Judith L. Libby from Springfield, IL USA on
Wed Jan 1 12:41:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Charles Birdwell from Seattle, WA, USA on Wed
Jan 1 15:31:40 EST 2003 says:
" I was born and raised in Springfield IL, living there
for 25 years. I have followed his tenure as Governor and
am impressed that he is taking a moral and yet difficult
stand for equity in the criminal justice system, as few
politicians do the right thing, at the expense of their
own popularity. Governor Ryan's actions also challenged
my beliefs regarding capital punishment and I now
believe the death penalty should be abolished. I applaud
this effort to nominate him for the Nobel Peace Prize.
He has shown selfless leadership with this issue and I
firmly stand behind him. "
Supporter Vincenzo Puggioni from Rome, Italy on Wed Jan
1 15:57:34 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Gill Ross from Manchester, England on Wed Jan
1 17:41:31 EST 2003 says:
" Gov Ryan's moratorium has set wheels in motion. The
United States should lead by example. Justice, not
vengeance, is the civilized way. "
Supporter Francesca from Rome, Italy on Wed Jan 1
18:36:32 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Rev Janet Schmidt from Belleville, IL USA on
Wed Jan 1 23:14:15 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is a courageous man and well deserving
of the Nobel Peace Prize. His actions have drawn
attention to a horrific outrage against humanity. "
Supporter Britta Slopianka from Henstedt-Ulzburg,
Germany on Thu Jan 2 01:47:15 EST 2003 says:
" A great idea !!! "
Supporter Bharat Malkani from London, England on Thu Jan
2 09:20:55 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Tracey Critchley-Thonfeld from Chemnitz,
Sachsen, Germany on Thu Jan 2 11:00:21 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Karen Newirth from Brooklyn, NY, USA on Thu
Jan 2 12:48:53 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has demonstrated the leadership,
courage, morality and grace that all of our elected
officials and civic leaders should possess. "
12
Supporter lauren a. wise from binghamton, ny, USA on Thu
Jan 2 12:52:24 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Brendan Hickey from Kennett Square, PA USA on
Thu Jan 2 19:53:01 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Antonio Corba Colombo from Monza (MI) Italy on
Thu Jan 2 20:26:01 EST 2003 says:
" Dear Governor Ryan and all staff, thank you very much
for your huge, sincere and important effort to end death
penalty in Illinois. You set a milestone in the death
penalty system which will distinguish you from politics
who take profit from d/p to be elected. Please go on to
show Americans d/p is wrong and don't lead them nowhere.
Revenge don't brings back no-one from the grave. I want
to thank you on behalf of those 102 people released from
death row in the last 28 years after they spent more
than 10 years (on average) on death row before were
discovered innocent. I want also to thank you on behalf
on those still waiting to die on death row across USA. I
really appreciate your effort from the deep of my heart.
Sincerely your, Antonio Corba Colombo. "
Supporter valentina from Milan Italy on Fri Jan 3
04:46:34 EST 2003 says:
" Death penalty is an inhuman thing and only God can
decide to take a person's life... "
Supporter Heidi Vindenes from Oslo, Norway on Fri Jan 3
05:06:12 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Eraker, Steinar from Oslo, Norway on Fri Jan 3
08:49:19 EST 2003 says:
" Death penalty is the crime! "
Supporter from on Fri Jan 3 18:03:19 EST 2003 says:
Supporter margrit sidler from sempach switzerland on Fri
Jan 3 19:26:00 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Michael Anderson from Burke, Virginia on Fri
Jan 3 20:03:14 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Michael Anderson from Burke, Virginia on Fri
Jan 3 20:04:02 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Tina McPherson from Baltimore, Maryland on Fri
Jan 3 21:00:30 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ann Atkinson from Antioch TN 37013 on Fri Jan
3 21:18:59 EST 2003 says:
" I admire a governor who goes by his own convictions.
He understands that innocence people have been executed
and many have left death row after DNA testing.
Executing a person only causes new victims. Why do we
kill people who kill people to show that killing people is wrong? "
Supporter Sara Abrahamian from fresno california on Fri
Jan 3 21:29:33 EST 2003 says:
13
Supporter Robert J Miller from Buffalo NY on Fri Jan 3
21:37:15 EST 2003 says:
" Please end capital punishment... "
Supporter Sue Reams from Garden Grove, CA, USA on Fri
Jan 3 21:44:30 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Sherry Swiney from Alabaster, Alabama on Fri
Jan 3 21:55:54 EST 2003 says:
" Yes, I support Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace
Price. He stands alone against the injustice that has
become the "norm" in the United States judicial system.
Oh, yes, I do support this wonderful and peaceful-minded
gentleman for all that he has done to expose the fact
that the USA judicial system is utterly broken. To that
end, he has stopped executing people until the system
can be remade into what it was originally designed to
be. He sees how perverted "justice for all" has become
and he showed no fear in speaking out for the People of
his state, and thus this entire country. "
Supporter Kevin R. Spidel from Litchfield Park, Arizona,
USA on Sat Jan 4 00:07:21 EST 2003 says:
" www.azabolitionist.org "
Supporter Sarah Lundy-Boudreaux from Chula Vista, CA,
USA on Sat Jan 4 00:15:02 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Rosemary Collins from Helena, Alabama USA on
Sat Jan 4 00:47:26 EST 2003 says:
" It takes a lot of courage to do the right thing and
Governor Ryan is doing what other governors shall do. "
Supporter Rev. Peggy Boles from Covington, Tennessee,
U.S.A. on Sat Jan 4 00:55:46 EST 2003 says:
" Governor George H. Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize is
exactly on point. What better example for this Prize
could be found anywhere? "
Supporter Brenda L Massingill from Guntersville, AL on
Sat Jan 4 01:15:47 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is to be commended for integrity of
heart. Although it is sad, political suicide is the
result of showing human kindness and compassion. I'm
sure he knew this when he began the moratorium. We, as
Americans, should elect leaders who are morally and
ethically sound and those who have the guts to stand up
for right, even at great personal expense. God will
honour Gov Ryan; even if man does not! He has my
admiration and my vote for the Nobel Peace Prize. God
Bless Gov Ryan, and the State of Illinois, and God
forgive those who's leaders refuse to hear the cries of
the people who are ready for change. It is TIME4CHANGE."
Supporter Kent Anderson from Peoria, IL, U.S.A. on Sat
Jan 4 02:16:09 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lou Mills from Beaumont Texas USA on Sat Jan 4
09:53:30 EST 2003 says:
14
Supporter Margaret T. Abbott from Chapin, SC, USA on Sat
Jan 4 09:59:18 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has had the intestinal fortitude to take
a look at a problem and see the injustice. Although a
very unpopular and volatile topic he took the steps to
say "let us stop and look at what is going on". It can
be detrimental for an elected official to stand up for
what is right. What a wonderful country this would be if
more officials stood up for justice even if it could
harm their career. Personally I would vote for him if he
ran for president. I am aware he is actually in favour
of the death penalty if proven guilty beyond a shadow of
doubt. But over the years I see more and more injustice
and doubt if a system can be made infallible. "
Supporter Christel Minnerup - Stanke from Ladbergen,
Germany on Sat Jan 4 11:14:22 EST 2003 says:
" I am in support of the nomination of Governor Ryan for
the Nobel Peace Prize. You tried it with capital
punishment now give those a chance who are against it. "
Supporter JL Henriques from Poway, California on Sat Jan
4 12:11:28 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is exhibiting the humanity that is
needed in politicians. That he has the courage to defy
popular political opinion demonstrates the character
that this man possesses. Murder is murder no matter who
commits and to put people who may be innocent to death
is above all immoral. "
Supporter JL Henriques from Poway, California on Sat Jan
4 12:12:32 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is exhibiting the humanity that is
needed in politicians. That he has the courage to defy
popular political opinion demonstrates the character
that this man possesses. Murder is murder no matter who
commits and to put people who may be innocent to death
is above all immoral. "
Supporter Barbara Graudenz from Frankfurt, Germany on
Sat Jan 4 12:15:52 EST 2003 says:
Supporter George Martyn
U.S.A. on Sat Jan
" Sanctions inequitably
the death penalty is to deny
Finch from Memphis, Tennessee,
4 13:05:39 EST 2003 says:
applied are unjust To continue
justice; it is as simple as that. "
Supporter Shirley Carter from Louisville, KY, USA on Sat
Jan 4 13:25:37 EST 2003 says:
" Everybody should show him his/her support. "
Supporter Joan C. Malone from Buffalo, New York on Sat
Jan 4 15:06:37 EST 2003 says:
" martn Luther King's belief that the greatest evil is
silence has never been more true. I thank and bless Gov.
Ryan for refusing to keep silence. "
Supporter AnnEzelius from Ludvika / Sweden on Sat Jan 4
15:32:57 EST 2003 says:
" I admire Governor Ryan for letting his voice be heard!"
15
Supporter Kristie from Morehead City.NC USA on Sat Jan 4
15:40:44 EST 2003 says:
" I think this is a wonderful thing Gov.Ryan is doing
with the moratorium. I think all the pther states should
have one as well "
Supporter mary elyn cacchione from raleigh nc on Sat Jan
4 16:02:12 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lisa al-Bassam from Sugar Land, TX - USA on
Sat Jan 4 16:23:33 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lee Gaylord from Detroit, MI, USA on Sat Jan 4
17:22:15 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has done something most politicians
would not do. Take a truly moral view of what the law
should be. He followed his conscience no matter what the
consequences where others would not "
Supporter Ellen and Frank McNeirney from Bethesda, MD on
Sat Jan 4 17:38:55 EST 2003 says:
" As national coordinators of the organization Catholics
Against Capital Punishment, we strongly endorse the
nomination of Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Elizabeth Atchley from Peoria, Illinois on Sat
Jan 4 18:48:00 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Gerald Bettice from Memphis, Tennessee, USA on
Sat Jan 4 20:18:44 EST 2003 says:
" True peace will come only through our passion for
compassion, justice and the sacredness of all life.
Governor Ryan has shown us a way to put these moral
qualities into practice. "
Supporter Irene Helale from S.I. New York. USA on Sat
Jan 4 20:21:49 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Donna Sanders from La Jolla , CA USA on Sat
Jan 4 21:24:21 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ellen Hughes from Corpus Christi, Texas USA on
Sat Jan 4 22:31:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Freddie Lee Pitts from Miami Shores, Fl-USA on
Sun Jan 5 00:02:51 EST 2003 says:
" Having spent 12 years in prison for a crime that I
didn't commit,(9 1/2 years on death row) I cannot see
the justification for having capital punishment. You
cannot bring an innocent person back from the grave. "
Supporter C'Rene Dana from Dixon, California,. USA on
Sun Jan 5 00:37:28 EST 2003 says:
" We need more people like him to stand up for what is right. "
Supporter Mary G. Mifflin from St. Louis, Missouri, USA
on Sun Jan 5 01:05:57 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Laura Mogilka from Wilb., MA. 01095 on Sun Jan
5 03:06:01 EST 2003 says:
16
Supporter Dorthe Andersen from Roskilde, Denmark on Sun
Jan 5 03:13:26 EST 2003 says:
" For daring to go against the overzealous and career
minded authorities and politicians in the name of true
justice and peace. "
Supporter Mary from Folsom, CA on Sun Jan 5 03:38:16 EST
2003 says:
" Please take a page out of Mother Teresa's book and
extend compassion. Allow God to do his job and be judge.
Even Jesus extended compassion on the most grievous of
sinners before he committed each miracle. "
Supporter AuneMaria Vähäkangas from Tervakoski 12400,
Finland on Sun Jan 5 04:57:39 EST 2003 says:
" Governor George H. Ryan has shown that he loves
righteousness more than votes. Our world needs such
decision makers of conscience. That's why I support his
receiving the Nobel Prize. "
Supporter Shelley Brown from Nashville,TN on Sun Jan 5
06:20:46 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has shown great courage in coming
forward and making this choice, not just for the state
of Illinois, but to show the rest of the country that
serious work needs to be done. I applaud you. "
Supporter Anna Vähäkangas from Turku, Finland on Sun Jan
5 06:27:02 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has more courage than most politicians.
He does not gamble with human lives in order to get votes. "
Supporter Christopher Hill Hargrove from Knoxville, Tn.,
U.S.A. on Sun Jan 5 08:26:17 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Christopher Hill Hargrove from Knoxville, Tn.,
USA on Sun Jan 5 08:27:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Mette Hald Hundewadt from Denmark on Sun Jan 5
09:15:57 EST 2003 says:
" How can a society support death penalty and at the
same time be so careless about fair trials? Stop death
penalty now! "
Supporter Teddy Landén from Malmö, Sweden on Sun Jan 5
10:39:48 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his
uncommon valour in the fight for justice and against the
bloodthirsty that the death penalty much of the time
arises in otherwise honourable and balanced citizens. "
17
Supporter LaTonya A.Tate from B'HAM,AL -USA on Sun Jan 5
14:04:57 EST 2003 says:
" I'm so grateful to Governor Ryan for being so brave
about his decision. Governor I see that you are not
being lead by man but, by the spirit of the Almighty
GOD, and I want to personally Thank You for such great
courage, being a long-time resident in B'ham, Al and
also a Prison Activist, I really hope and pray that our
Administration catch on to the spirit and the power of
the almighty, maybe when they do our prison system want
have the problem's they are face with today. I admire
you state's effort on releasing non-violent offenders on
drug charges, don't get me wrong I'm not saying people
who commit crimes shouldn't be punished but find ways of
alternative sentencing. THANK YOU SO MUCH I SUPPORT YOU"
Supporter Brenda Flynn from United Kingdom on Sun Jan 5
14:39:48 EST 2003 says:
" I definitely agree with this "
Supporter Judith Coley from Tempe, Az. US on Sun Jan 5
16:17:29 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Deede Wyatt from Memphis TN USA on Sun Jan 5
18:12:23 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Sian H. from Janesville, WI USA on Sun Jan 5
18:43:37 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Keri Cannon from Nashville, TN USA on Sun Jan
5 20:38:38 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Krister Ohman from Umea , Sweden on Sun Jan 5
20:46:41 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Sara Ohman from Umea , Sweden on Sun Jan 5
20:48:27 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Rachael from Pasadena TX USA on Sun Jan 5
21:42:07 EST 2003 says:
" I dont think nobody has a right to kill.........SO
TELL ME WHY THE STATES CAN KILL PEOPLE????????????? "
Supporter Sylvia J Berggren from Las Vegas, NV USA on
Sun Jan 5 22:44:31 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan was the first to admit his state and the
justice system had a problem and I have great respect
for him for being strong enough to admit the system
needs fixing. Most elected officials, prosecutors and
police just sweep it under the rug and don't care what
happens to innocent people. And that will happen again
when Governor Ryan leaves office. He deserves the Nobel
Prize more than most who have received it recently. "
Supporter Professor Amy L. S. Staples from Nashville,
Tennessee, USA on Sun Jan 5 22:55:41 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Sharon Gilbreath from Portland,Oregon USA on
Mon Jan 6 02:01:45 EST 2003 says:
" It is time to stop the Violence in the country today.
The mentality of "An Eye for an Eye" does not stop the
pain. It just causes more. "
18
Supporter Grazia Guaschino from Turin, Italy on Mon Jan
6 05:21:35 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Guido Grenni from Turin, Italy on Mon Jan 6
05:21:52 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Raimondo Chicco from Turin, Italy on Mon Jan 6
05:22:05 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ida Leone from Turin, Italy on Mon Jan 6
05:22:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Luisa De Raffaele from Turin, Italy on Mon Jan
6 05:22:26 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Vittoria Guaschino from Turin, Italy on Mon
Jan 6 05:22:38 EST 2003 says:
Supporter K. Linn from Dunedin, FL USA on Mon Jan 6
08:36:04 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jonathan Mark - FlybyNews.com from Wendell
Depot, MA, USA on Mon Jan 6 09:38:47 EST 2003 says:
" FlybyNews.com endorsed this campaign in our issue
posted 06 January 2003. With much appreciation for all
Supporters and for this campaign.. in dedication of
ending institutionalized killing.. see:
http://www.flybynews.com "
Supporter Debbie from Jewett City, CT USA on Mon Jan 6
09:52:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Elizabeth Hiland from Brentwood, TN, USA on
Mon Jan 6 10:20:03 EST 2003 says:
" It is a bold step for a Republican governor to make to
even consider blanket commutation for death row inmates
in his state. In this day and age of Bush and the loss
of individual civil liberties with the Patriot Act, it
is the noble person who stands up for what is right,
when the easy road would not give this issue a second
thought. "
Supporter kristen keely-dinger from Nashville, TN USA on
Mon Jan 6 10:39:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter PELOIS Emmanuelle from FRANCE, Vitry sur Seine
on Mon Jan 6 12:53:21 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Nicole Pagani from France on Mon Jan 6
12:54:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Arlette Pasche from Lugano, Switzerland on Mon
Jan 6 13:40:34 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jake Sussman from New Haven, CT, USA on Mon
Jan 6 16:28:36 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan has shown courage in an area where other
elected officials reflexively cower. "
19
Supporter Anne Markham from Flat 3 William Court,
Broadway, Totland, Isle of Wight UK PO39 0AT on Mon Jan
6 17:01:20 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's stand against a deeply flawed and
inhumane system deserves recognition. He is a brave man."
Supporter Ronald Bosch, RN, MPH from Turners Falls MA
USA on Mon Jan 6 19:22:12 EST 2003 says:
" Capital punishment makes the State an assassin of the
cruellest sort. There can be no justification for
killing, mostly black, and often innocent people. This
is behaviour from the stone age. Stop the killing, please! "
Supporter Francesca Chiurato from Rome,Italy,Europe on
Tue Jan 7 05:18:13 EST 2003 says:
Supporter ros tillyer from london. england on Tue Jan 7
06:27:28 EST 2003 says:
" The 'State' continued use of the death penalty debases
everyone. It should be stopped. "
Supporter Julie A. Norman from Orlando, Florida, USA on
Tue Jan 7 14:29:32 EST 2003 says:
" I recently moved to Florida from Illinois. As a mental
health professional (and law school graduate), I have
done mitigation work in death penalty cases for the last
11 years. Gov. Ryan deserves this honor for having the
courage to take this stand. "
Supporter A. Lee from Springfield, Illinois USA on Tue
Jan 7 17:52:22 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is indeed courageous. It is rare for a
politician in the US today to stand up for human life
and justice like he has. For too long we have confused
justice with revenge at the expense of the innocent. We
need to join the rest of the civilized world by
embracing a pro-life justice system. The US has been in
the dark ages too long. "
Supporter larry finch from sedona arizona usa on Tue Jan
7 19:22:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Toni McCue from Springfield, IL on Tue Jan 7
19:23:54 EST 2003 says:
" George Ryan had the wisdom to weigh the facts about
the death penalty and despite tremendous opposition,
reach the only logical conclusion: place a moratorium on
the death penalty in Illinois. With so many convictions
being overturned by new or contradictory evidence, to do
nothing would have been unthinkable for this man of
courage. George Ryan has a proven track record of using
compassion and deliberation when faced with social
issues involving human suffering. "
20
Supporter Jennifer BIshop-Jenkins from Northfield, IL,
USA on Tue Jan 7 19:25:13 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has done more to slow, reform, and
hopefully end the widespread systemic institutional
human extermination that is the US Government's death
penalty than any man in America. The historic import of
his actions will far outlast his tenure as governor of
Illinois, and will continue to have a rippling effect
throughout the USA and the world for a more just
Criminal justice system. "
Supporter George from Kankakee on Tue Jan 7 21:03:20 EST
2003 says:
" Thank you all for your support for my death penalty
cause. I will continue to communicate with you when I
move to my new residence shortly, compliments of the
U.S. Government. I'm not sure which Club Fed I will be
in but I'll keep you all posted. "
Supporter Andrey Viviane from Versoix - Geneva Switzerland on Wed Jan 8 02:42:36 EST 2003 says:
" All pro death penalty governors must follow Gov.
Ryan's example. A good politician is not the one who has
to kill his citizen to gain votes "
Supporter Elsa Rossini from 58051 Magliano in T.
Grosseto Italy on Wed Jan 8 03:26:46 EST 2003 says:
" Very very good idea indeed.... Quite unbelievable!!!
How can I express my feelings of deep gratitude to
Governor George H.Ryan? All my best wishes, looking
forward to hearing good news Elsa Rossini "
Supporter Vicky Davies from Manchester UK on Wed Jan 8
04:05:21 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Bridgett A. Diesso from Tyler, Texas U.S.A. on
Wed Jan 8 05:35:46 EST 2003 says:
" Governer Ryan, is the only Governer, who has stood up
in front of this country and shown that he has a heart.
He feels the death penalty is wrong. He was not scared
to tell the world that he did not approve. I wish him
luck in getting nominated again, that he can do more to
bring prison reform to a higher standard. "
Supporter Livia Calvet from Paris, France on Wed Jan 8
05:36:39 EST 2003 says:
" Considering the current political climate in regards
to the death penalty in the U.S; Gov. Ryan's step
towards reform and hopefully complete abolition of the
death penalty is very courageous and should inspire
others less willing to risk their political careers. "
21
Supporter Mary Ellen Bujnoski from Erie, Pennsylvania,
United States of America on Wed Jan 8 08:55:56 EST 2003 says:
" I support the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize for
Governor George H. Ryan of Illinois. Governor Ryan has
courageously spoke against one of the most inhumane and
uncivilized practices; capital punishment. He has
bravely led the fight to end this injustice even in the
face of career-ending tactics by those who portray his
courageous act as being too soft on crime. We all know
the death penalty does not deter or prevent crime. True
justice can only come about when all steps are taken to
prevent crime; not by committing a crime to punish a
crime. Intensive efforts to prevent crime and the
abolishment of the death penalty in the U.S. will surely
make our nation more peaceful. It is Governor Ryan's
compassion and concern for innocent people being
executed and his courage determination to make our
country a more peaceful nation by putting a moratorium
on the death penalty in his state, that make him an
overwhelmingly worthy Nobel Peace Prize Candidate. "
Supporter Marilyn L. Ray from Ithaca, NY, USA on Wed Jan
8 09:46:42 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Win Wahrer from Toronto, Ontario, Canada on
Wed Jan 8 10:19:30 EST 2003 says:
" I think Governor Ryan should be nominated if he has
the courage to commute all death sentences and re-open
those cases of possible wrongful convictions. "
Supporter Joshua Noble from Silver Spring, MD, United
States on Wed Jan 8 10:44:00 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has proven that the death penalty is not
a partisan issue. "
Supporter K. September from Canada on Wed Jan 8 11:04:23
EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is a very brave and honorable man. I
admire both of these qualities; and hope more men and
women in positions of power will be inspired by Governor
Ryan's actions to step up on this - As well as other
policies that are easier to sweep under the carpet than
address with unpopular opinions. I definately support
the Governor, and his stand, and feel he would be a
great recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize! "
Supporter Jennifer Barratt from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
on Wed Jan 8 12:06:16 EST 2003 says:
" He put humanity before political gain. "
Supporter David P. Gulley from New Orleans, LA on Wed
Jan 8 12:31:54 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Marie from United States on Wed Jan 8 13:11:24
EST 2003 says:
" I don't believe in the death penalty at all. This is
definitely a "cruel and unusual punishment." Thank you
for trying to fix this. "
22
Supporter Richard S. Fowler from Vancouver, Canada on
Wed Jan 8 13:49:17 EST 2003 says:
" I am a criminal defence lawyer who every day operates
in an imperfect system. I have met individuals who were
wrongly convicted of offences which in the United States
could have resulted in the death penalty. Governments
must not remain blind to the reality that we will
always, unfortunately, and inevitably, on occasion
convict the innocent. The death penalty means that the
Government will undoubtedly continue to kill the
innocent. State perpetrated killing demeans life and all
citizens of that state far more than the grievous
actions that people naively believe will be deterred by
the death penalty. I pray that Governor Ryan's actions
lead to the abolishment of the death penalty and
reaffirm our countries commitment to ending state
sanctioned killing. "
Supporter Yvonne Erickson from The Netherlands on Wed
Jan 8 15:06:23 EST 2003 says:
Supporter sean curran from united kingdom on Wed Jan 8
16:32:54 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Andreas Rudolf from Ruppichteroth, Germany on
Wed Jan 8 17:07:31 EST 2003 says:
" It's a very important step to stop the death-penalty!"
Supporter PAOLO CIFARIELLO from PIACENZA, ITALY on Thu
Jan 9 03:21:43 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Loretta Tartufoli from Morrovalle - Italy on
Thu Jan 9 03:24:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ivano Quintavalle from Morrovalle - Italy on
Thu Jan 9 03:27:25 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Emanuela Tocchetto from Morrovalle - Italy on
Thu Jan 9 03:27:47 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Eleonora Quintavalle from Morrovalle - Italy
on Thu Jan 9 03:28:09 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Pallavi Guniganti from Falls Church, VA, USA
on Thu Jan 9 08:41:54 EST 2003 says:
Supporter David Evans from Guildford, Surrey, England on
Thu Jan 9 09:41:09 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Humery Florence from Paris, France on Thu Jan
9 10:42:57 EST 2003 says:
" I support Mr Ryan for the Nobel Peace Price because
there is no peace if there is no real justice. I believe
in justice and I believe in mankind's positive
evolution. MR Ryan's action for justice is full of
courage and his action should be an example for too many
politicians. Thank you Mr Ryan because people like you
you make me believe that changes are possible. Florence
humery, France "
23
Supporter Marcelle Pellé from CLICHY - FRANCE on Thu Jan
9 10:44:30 EST 2003 says:
" I support you strongly. "
Supporter Gerald Tigner from Texas USA on Thu Jan 9
11:11:52 EST 2003 says:
""If I had not been executed on the 7th of March 2002 by
the state of Texas,, I would support Mr Ryan for the
Nobel Peace Price. " I am sure that Gerald Tigner would
have said that if he were still alive. This man has been
claiming his innocence until the lethal liquid were
injected in his veins. He was a lost young boy who grew
up in violence. If the American society really gave
everyone his chance, no one, innocent or guilty, black
or white, would be on death Row. This is a broken system
and people prefer killing legally than thinking about
the roots of criminality. It is a global problem. Thank
you Mr Ryan for your courage A friend of Gerald Tigner "
Supporter Mary Curtis from Conroe Texas USA on Thu Jan 9
20:29:32 EST 2003 says:
" In my humble opinion Governor Ryan has done more to
bring about stopping the death penalty than anyone I
know. I feel he deserves the Nobel Peace prize "
Supporter Benny from Springfield, Illinois on Thu Jan 9
21:27:55 EST 2003 says:
" You guys think George Ryan is still worth receiving
the Nobel Peace Prize? Check out the following website:
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/printedition/chi-0301090157jan09,1,7965422.story
Supporter Judy Lumb from Caye Caulker, Belize on Thu Jan
9 23:59:52 EST 2003 says:
" I am especially concerned about the Belizean national,
Evan Griffith, but I urge you to commute all death
penalty sentences to life sentences. Thank you for
standing for principles! "
Supporter josette & camille tilling from oberkorn
luxembourg europe on Fri Jan 10 03:10:09 EST 2003 says:
Supporter MSG (DEO) from Belmopan City, Belize, Central
America. on Fri Jan 10 12:57:23 EST 2003 says:
" I Pray and encouraged Governor Ryan's actions lead to
the abolishment of the death penalty. "
Supporter PAOLO SCANABUCCI from ANCONA, ITALY on Fri Jan
10 18:46:09 EST 2003 says:
" BLESSED ARE THEY WHO HUNGER AND THIRST FOR
RIGHTEOUSNESS, FOR THEY WILL BE SATISFIED. THANK YOU
GOVERNOR RYAN FOR YOUR BATTLE AGAINST DEATH PENALTY "
Supporter Dan Frøskeland from Bergen, Norway on Fri Jan
10 19:21:05 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Janice Figuero from Deland FL. USA on Fri Jan
10 20:52:55 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Medjebeur from Belfort, France on Sat Jan 11
07:59:46 EST 2003 says:
24
Supporter Montfort Aline from Vincennes 94300 France on
Sat Jan 11 10:34:23 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is a model of the integrity that more
politicians should have in order to save the bad
reputation of America "
Supporter Marcello Forconi from Bologna, Italy on Sat
Jan 11 11:25:47 EST 2003 says:
Supporter andrea spitaleri from sheffield, uk on Sat Jan
11 13:36:27 EST 2003 says:
" I hope this cruelty will finish asap. "
Supporter Julie Woestehoff from 1327 E. 55th Street,
Chicago, IL 60615 on Sat Jan 11 15:41:53 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jamie Kaisershot from Aurora, IL USA on Sat
Jan 11 16:04:06 EST 2003 says:
" Here in Illinois, we voters are well aware that
Governor Ryan has made some mistakes during his time in
office.. But on this particular issue, he is a hero! The
death penalty is in reality the premeditated killing of
a (possibly wrongfully-convicted) human being by the
state. Illinois citizens will now no longer have to
worry about whether an innocent person will be executed
in our name. Texas, are you listening?? "
Supporter Rev. Jeffrey & Steffany Belcher from South
Bristol, Maine, United States on Sat Jan 11 16:43:29 EST
2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's announcement today (1//11/03)makes him
a strong candidate for the Peace Prize - he has stood up
for justice and for peace with great courage. In this
time in the United States when there is few who are
standing up for anything that is noble or good or of
peace he touches us and makes us hopeful for the human
race and for our country. Now, he will be publicly
crucified and is clearly and calmly ready to take that
because of his deep belief in the rightness of his
position. God bless him! "
Supporter Julie Rose from Los Angeles, CA, USA on Sat
Jan 11 16:51:31 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Micki Dickoff from Los Angeles, CA 90018 on
Sat Jan 11 17:32:48 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's courage to stand up for what he
believes is right will forever inspire me. "
Supporter Kelsielynn Ruff from Ocala, Florida, United
States on Sat Jan 11 17:33:00 EST 2003 says:
" It will be one miraculous day when the world
understands why Governor Ryan did such an noble and
admirable deed, and understand themselves why we should
all be in the likeness of him. "
Supporter Martha M. Garcia from Oceano, CA USA on Sat
Jan 11 17:37:27 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan's rare example of political courage is
worthy of the Nobel Peace Prise. "
25
Supporter Anton Kuerti from Toronto, Canada on Sat Jan
11 17:39:09 EST 2003 says:
" It is heartwarming to see that there are still some
people of intelligence, courage and conscience in U.S.
politics. Gov. Ryan is one of them. "
Supporter Heidi Ehrlich from New Orleans, LA, USA on Sat
Jan 11 17:42:24 EST 2003 says:
" His record speaks for itself!!! Thanks. "
Supporter Debbie Gavin from Pakenham, Victoria,
Australia on Sat Jan 11 17:44:21 EST 2003 says:
" God bless the truth "
Supporter Gail Sue DeFeo from
Sat Jan 11 17:45:38
" If anyone I have ever known
Prize...it is by far,
Ridley Park, PA 19078 on
EST 2003 says:
deserved the Nobel Peace
Governor Ryan! "
Supporter Erin Conley-Monroe from Alton, IL USA on Sat
Jan 11 17:47:41 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Vennessa Pustek from Bremerton, WA, U on Sat
Jan 11 17:54:09 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Maureen Scott from Butler, Pa 16001 on Sat Jan
11 17:59:09 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you Governor Ryan for having the courage to
commute these death penalty cases. Sincerely, Maureen
Scott "
Supporter Stanley Taylor from San Jose, CA USA on Sat
Jan 11 18:02:55 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan, this is a prophetic decision that may
lead others to abandon this corrupt, evil madness. All
of God's blessings on you! "
Supporter jon from Cincy Oh Ham on Sat Jan 11 18:03:07
EST 2003 says:
" Nice ruling! A society should not kill it's citizens."
Supporter Sondra M Brewe from Stone Mountain, GA USA on
Sat Jan 11 18:06:33 EST 2003 says:
" I am pleased to see that someone in our Government
system has the ability to stand up and make a correction
to something that is profoundly wrong. It takes a
consciousness of truth and that is most times governed
by a standard and belief in GOD. Thank you for leading
the way for hopefully others to follow. "
Supporter Paula Sites from New Whiteland, Indiana, USA
on Sat Jan 11 18:09:37 EST 2003 says:
" Not since John Peter Altgelt pardoned those condemned
for the Haymarket Square riots have we seen a politician
who truly exercised moral leadership, who cared more for
what was right than for what was politically safe. I
hope we do not wait another 200 years to see it again.
Please honor this man as he deserves to be honored. "
26
Supporter Robert E. Reynolds from Orange Park, Florida
on Sat Jan 11 18:30:34 EST 2003 says:
" He has done what is right. Something extremely rare in
an American politician. His actions increase the
pressure on others to make the death penalty an
unacceptable penalty in the United States. "
Supporter Anthony Pitts from Portsmouth, Ohio USA on Sat
Jan 11 18:34:55 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Arwen Bird from Portland OR on Sat Jan 11
18:52:13 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Linda L. White from Magnolia, Texas, USA on
Sat Jan 11 18:56:27 EST 2003 says:
" What an amazing amount of courage it takes to attempt
to rectify this broken system in an age of violence such
as the one we live in - to attempt to speak out against
most of the powerful in America. Bless you, Governor Ryan. "
Supporter Anthony Stubbs from Portsmouth, England on Sat
Jan 11 18:57:43 EST 2003 says:
" You, Sir, are a Leader. Lead the others, PLEASE! "
Supporter Becca Velarde from Albuquerque, NM, USA on Sat
Jan 11 19:07:08 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Aine I. Ruane from Lincolnwood, IL, USofA on
Sat Jan 11 19:09:50 EST 2003 says:
" Only the noble received the Nobel Prize for Peace and
Governor George Ryan of the great State of Illinois is
the noblest of them all. "
Supporter Priya from Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA on Sat Jan
11 19:27:53 EST 2003 says:
" Anyone who took the time, and had the courage, to
research the issue of capital punishment as deeply as he
did deserves the Nobel prize. He did give a lot to the
world. "
Supporter John Brady from Penticton British Columbia
Canada on Sat Jan 11 19:33:20 EST 2003 says:
" A noble, courageous and magnanimous action. May this
be the beginning of the end of the death penalty in the USA "
Supporter Alice Lynd from Niles, OH, USA on Sat Jan 11
19:37:14 EST 2003 says:
" I watched your courageous speech on C-Span, 1/11/03. I
hope your description of the agonizing process through
which you came to your conclusions, and the facts that
compelled you to those conclusions, will have a profound
impact on the views of the public and of governmental
officials throughout the United States. Thank you. "
Supporter Dr. Najee' E. Muhammad from Athens, OH USA on
Sat Jan 11 19:37:51 EST 2003 says:
" He has my full support for his continued courage in
doing the right thing. "
Supporter Diana LeBrun from Pleasant Lake, Indiana USA
on Sat Jan 11 20:06:17 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you Jesus. "
27
Supporter Kelly Reid from Walkerton Ontario Canada on
Sat Jan 11 20:08:00 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Darlene Matthews from Daytona Bch Fl on Sat
Jan 11 20:34:25 EST 2003 says:
" A man for all seasons! "
Supporter Gloria Steele from Copperas Cove, Texas on Sat
Jan 11 20:49:48 EST 2003 says:
" As the mother of a son executed Jan 2002 I find
Governor Ryan to be the first government official that
truly understands the flaws in the system and is willing
to take a stand to do something about it. God bless
him!! "
Supporter Todd Kranock from New York, NY - United States
on Sat Jan 11 21:03:23 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Andrea Wigodsky from Winston-Salem, NC USA on
Sat Jan 11 21:09:28 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you for being a life-saver, Governor. May others
follow in your footsteps. "
Supporter Todd Kranock from New York, NY - United States
on Sat Jan 11 21:09:58 EST 2003 says:
" Today, Saturday, 11 January, 2003, Governor George
Ryan commuted the death penalty sentences of 167
prisoners. This was one the few times in recorded
history that the world has witness the noble use, rather
than, the deleterious abuse, of political power.
Governor Ryan has restored honor to the office of
"politician," and he has faithfully served both the
public and justice in his decision. Ryan is a paramount
example of a Noble Peace Prize candidate. "
Supporter Alice Fitzgerald from Madison, Indiana USA on
Sat Jan 11 21:13:05 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Vickie Collins from Ohio on Sat Jan 11
21:17:32 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Beverley Berlin Mas from Palm Beach Gardens,
FL, USA on Sat Jan 11 21:17:40 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Virginia Bormann from East Bristol, Wisconsin,
USA on Sat Jan 11 21:31:28 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Robert :Lichtenstein from Oal;amd, Califormia,
USA on Sat Jan 11 21:42:33 EST 2003 says:
" I cannot think of a more courageous action that anyone
has taken in this otherwise bleak time than that of
Governor Ryan. I know that he will receive tons of hate
mail, but in the end he will be recognized as a hero,
and I hope as a Nobel laureate. "
Supporter Linda Nevin from San Diego, CA, USA on Sat Jan
11 21:49:28 EST 2003 says:
" A sane, brave, humanitarian decision. The death
penalty is simply revenge, not a deterrent to murder. It
solves no problem. It brings no one back from the dead."
28
Supporter N.M. Kleinman from Bradford, United Kingdom on
Sat Jan 11 21:52:30 EST 2003 says:
" Governor George Ryan's honesty and courage is
inspiring. His leadership in establishing a moratorium
to examine the way the death penalty works in his state
and his commutation of the sentences of all those
remaining on death row in Illinois as he leaves office
may well hasten an end to the practice of state
execution in the USA and worldwide. "
Supporter Michael Molver from Winchester, California,
USA on Sat Jan 11 22:02:54 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you Gov. Ryan "
Supporter Kathy J Glaneman from Rancho Cordova,
California ,US on Sat Jan 11 22:09:15 EST 2003 says:
" It takes a lot of courage to do what Governor Ryan has
done. Governor Ryan recognized that everyone currently
on Illinois' death row was convicted under the same
deeply flawed system. And took the steps to change. "
Supporter Phyllis Goldfarb from Weston, MA USA on Sat
Jan 11 22:11:53 EST 2003 says:
" An extraordinary act of principled leadership,
deserving of the highest accolades. "
Supporter Michelle Ravell from Las Vegas, NV USA on Sat
Jan 11 22:18:18 EST 2003 says:
" It is with a great amount of appreciation that I say
"Way to Go" to Governor Ryan. It has been such a long
time coming, but I don't see how anyone can ignore the
problem now that Gov. Ryan has placed the issue at the
forefront of the public eye. As a friend of someone
wrongfully convicted I know first hand the
disillusionment of seeing our justice system in the
current state of affairs, and hope that more of our
elected officials take note. "
Supporter William Vaught from Buda, Texas Travis County
on Sat Jan 11 22:33:29 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has shown a great commitment to peace
and justice in his term as governor. I know of no other
person who has done more for peace than Governor Ryan. "
Supporter Katherine A Glaneman from Rancho Cordova,
California, US on Sat Jan 11 22:43:32 EST 2003 says:
" We live in a time when it seems like the hole of our
government has a finger on the button, with complete
disregard for life. Whether it be War, or the hasty and
tragic execution of prisoners. But now a brave man comes
forward to challenge the way its be done and ask that we
reevaluate a failed system. God bless you Governor Ryan."
Supporter James Fellows from Weston, Ma. USA on Sat Jan
11 22:43:34 EST 2003 says:
" It seems we are a long, long way from peace, but Gov.
George Ryan has demonstrated how swiftly we can move
toward change. "
Supporter Nancy P. Pagani from Fuquay Varina, North
Carolina, USA on Sat Jan 11 23:05:28 EST 2003 says:
29
Supporter Carrie Cox from St. Louis, Missouri, USA on
Sat Jan 11 23:09:42 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Dr. Merideth C. Norris from Harpers Ferry,
West Virginia, USA on Sat Jan 11 23:13:22 EST 2003 says:
" As a mother and as a physician, I applaud Governor
Ryan for role modeling positive alternatives to
vengeance-based justice, as well as setting an example
for a brave departure from the status quo! Dr. Norris "
Supporter Russell Payson from Mesa AZ on Sat Jan 11
23:16:42 EST 2003 says:
" Hurrah!! Good Job Governor!! "
Supporter Lief Youngs from Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
on Sat Jan 11 23:16:51 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Charles T. Smith from Troy, MO, USA on Sat Jan
11 23:23:07 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you, Gov. Ryan, for taking an honest look at the
death penalty system. Your courage may give other
elected officials the courage to do the same. Your
actions have made the world a little more sane. May God
bless you! "
Supporter Catherine M. Hamor from Ellendale, MN USA on
Sat Jan 11 23:24:38 EST 2003 says:
The heart of a statesman should be in his head"
Napoleon Bonaparte "
Supporter Sandra Jones from Wilmington, De. USA on Sat
Jan 11 23:39:02 EST 2003 says:
" I applaud Gov. Ryan's attention to the flaws inherent
to the death penalty and having the courage to stand up
against our pro-death penalty government by doing what
he knows to be right. The death penalty is a racist,
classist and arbitrary institution and more politicians
need to follow Gov. Ryan's lead! "
Supporter Lawrence J Gaissert, III from Elm City, North
Carolina, USA on Sat Jan 11 23:49:29 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Judi Caruso from Placitas, NM 87043 on Sun Jan
12 00:07:17 EST 2003 says:
" For his courage shown in declaring a moratorium on the
death penalty in Illinois and for his conscientious and
courageous decision to empty Illinois's death row.
Hopefully his decision will pave the way for the
abolition of the death penalty in the U.S. and will
restore the U.S.'s credibilty and integrity as the
world's democratic leader and guardian of human rights
and fairness in the administration of justice. "
30
Supporter Phyllis Turner Lawrence from Alexandria, VA,
USA on Sun Jan 12 00:09:14 EST 2003 says:
" I believe there is no greater cause for peace than to
stop the killing of one human being by another. Gov.
Ryan exemplifies the notion the spirit that "We must
kill the will to kill." His brave and just act of
commutation was the greatest strike against the death
penalty in many years, and a huge step toward abolition
of this inhumane and immoral state action. Regardless of
any stains on his record, he deserves the Nobel Peace
Prize for both his placing a moratorium on capital
punishment in Illinois and now the commutation of all
death sentences. "
Supporter Tasha from Sacramento, Ca on Sun Jan 12
00:30:03 EST 2003 says:
" Today marks the first day that I read the news and
felt joy and hope. thank you Gov. Ryan for helping me
beleive that our political and justice system is not
lost completely. "
Supporter from on Sun Jan 12 00:36:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Kristin M. Koenig from Corona, CA, USA on Sun
Jan 12 00:38:19 EST 2003 says:
" We can never prove 100% that someone is guilty. We
need to leave the option of reversing the sentence open
should new evidence come to light. Death is forever. We
can't just say "whoops" and reverse it in the case of a
wrongful conviction. "
Supporter Jovan Marjanovic from Palo Alto, CA 94303 on
Sun Jan 12 00:44:22 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Father Raymond P. Roden, PsyD from Brooklyn,
New York, USA on Sun Jan 12 00:55:05 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's action is worthy of a new chapter in
JFK's PROFILES IN COURAGE! I wholeheartedly support his
nomination for the NOBEL PEACE PRIZE. God bless you,
Governor! "
Supporter Max A. Bruno from Los angeles CA on Sun Jan 12
00:57:21 EST 2003 says:
" Oh my God! He is such a brave man. To do what he feels
is the right thing takes so much courage...and with the
families of the victim so enraged...oh my God, what a brave man. "
Supporter Albert R. Dilley from Palm Beach Gardens Fl
USA on Sun Jan 12 00:58:14 EST 2003 says:
" This is a huge step toward abolishing the cruel,
inhumane form of government murder known as the death
penalty. All other refined societies around the globe
have long since done so. The European Union, Canada,
Mexico. Only about five states in these United States
still hang on to this medieval practice, but these five
give our country the appearance of being savage, brutal,
abusive of civil rights. Governor Ryan has made a strong
statement which will ultimately bring about the
abolition of the death penalty in the United States. I
aplaud his courage and tenacity. "
31
Supporter Paula D Aiello from San Ramon, California, USA
on Sun Jan 12 01:32:51 EST 2003 says:
Few are willing to brave the disapproval of their
fellows, the censure of the colleagues, the wrath of
their society. Moral courage is a rarer commodity than
bravery in battle or great intelligence. Yet it is the
one essential, vital quality for those who seek to
change a world that yields most painfully to change.
Each time a person stands up for an idea, or acts to
improve the lot of others, or strikes out against
injustice, (s)he sends forth a tiny ripple of hope, and
crossing each other from a million different centers of
energy and daring, those ripples build a current that
can sweep down the mightiest walls of oppression and
resistance." --Robert F. Kennedy Thank you!!! "
Supporter Tibby Brooks from New York, New York, USA on
Sun Jan 12 01:44:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Karl Keys from USA on Sun Jan 12 02:18:21 EST
2003 says:
" Those who save a life save the world in time. "
Supporter Diane Wilkinson from 773 Carroll Street,
Baltimore MD 21230, USA on Sun Jan 12 02:37:11 EST 2003
says:
" Governor Ryan is a true American hero. "
Supporter Maria L Therese from Lincolnwood, IL, USA on
Sun Jan 12 03:29:33 EST 2003 says:
" The death penalty should be abolished in the United
States. Governor George Ryan has taken a quantum leap in
saving the Illinois Death Penalty Prisoners from this
barbaric practiceand bringing this to the public
awareness. He is come from his heart and not from the
political realm. He deserves the Nobel Peace Prize for his actions "
Supporter Michel Héroux from Kelowna, B.C., Canada. on
Sun Jan 12 03:35:39 EST 2003 says:
" Overwhelming evidence indicates that, where the death
penalty is in effect, innocent people are sentenced to
death and are killed. Supporters of the death penalty
should consider that, because of the above fact, they
are sentencing innocent men and women to death. If
Supporters of the death penalty were held accountable
for the murders of the wrongfully accused men and women
they have condemned to death, the system would quickly
change, if not quickly enough. "
Supporter Garrett Brownrigg from British Columbia,
Canada on Sun Jan 12 04:22:07 EST 2003 says:
" It's great to find a politician of principle who is
not afraid to make a decision which may be unpopular and
stick with it. His will be a legacy of compassion,
justice and honor. God speed. "
32
Supporter Andrea Faust from Kamen, Germany on Sun Jan 12
05:40:49 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan has shown through his courageous and brave
decision that the flawed System in the US needs to be
reformed. I am in full support for him to receive the
Nobel Peace Prize. May God bless him. "
Supporter Donna Cunningham from Aigas,
Inverness-shire,Scotland on Sun Jan 12 06:07:18 EST 2003
says:
Supporter joey gillespie from Baton Rouge, LA on Sun Jan
12 07:04:02 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Shelby Arabie from Baton Rouge, LA on Sun Jan
12 07:04:39 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Alan L. Baker from Durham, New Hampshire, USA
on Sun Jan 12 07:21:14 EST 2003 says:
" Governor George H. Ryan stands tall above the
increasingly abusive legal machinery found throughout
this country and the world. Commutation of all men
currently on "death row" in the State of Illinois is a
bold and courageous move, that should encourage everyone
to eliminate the death penalty globally. "
Supporter Dr. Kathleen Hall from New York, NY 10016 on
Sun Jan 12 07:30:04 EST 2003 says:
" With respect and delight, I read the speech of the
Illinois Governor, George Ryan, in this morning's New
York Times. I must tell you that I am very proud to be
from Illinois. If all that corn and soybean can produce
a man of this caliber, a man who has the strength and
intelligence to fight an unjust system, a politician who
is willing to fight for what he believes , then may it
play around the world as it plays in Peoria. Kathleen "
Supporter Sandra Francisconi from Eugene. Oregon 97402
on Sun Jan 12 08:21:09 EST 2003 says:
" I have great respect for Governor Ryan. His integrity
and compassion gives me hope that the death penalty will
not stand for long. "
Supporter Mara kearney from Kerhonkson, NY 12446 USA on
Sun Jan 12 08:26:23 EST 2003 says:
" YES "
Supporter Paul Copeland from Melbourne, Victoria,
Australia on Sun Jan 12 08:29:51 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is to be congratulated for taking what
is a very brave step. He deserves to receive the Nobel
Peace Prize. Yours Faithfully, Paul Copeland. "
Supporter Reiner Goldau from Ydbyvej 184 Ydby-DK-7760
Hurup Thy - Denmark on Sun Jan 12 08:50:18 EST 2003
says:
" This man deserves it, what a victory for humanity
Reiner S. Goldau generalManager T.I.B.F. - Denmark "
Supporter Dorte Goldau from Ydbyvej 184 Ydby-DK-7760
Hurup Thy - Denmark on Sun Jan 12 08:50:48 EST 2003
says:
33
Supporter Mathilde Goldau from Ydbyvej 184 Ydby-DK-7760
Hurup Thy - Denmark on Sun Jan 12 08:51:14 EST 2003
says:
Supporter Kristina Goldau from Ydbyvej 184 Ydby-DK-7760
Hurup Thy - Denmark on Sun Jan 12 08:51:39 EST 2003
says:
Supporter Anna Sofie Stensgaard Goldau from Ydbyvej 184
Ydby-DK-7760 Hurup Thy - Denmark on Sun Jan 12 08:52:13
EST 2003 says:
Supporter Nicole Richards from New Jersey, United States
on Sun Jan 12 09:00:33 EST 2003 says:
" In the United States there is more mainstream support
for torture of "muslim terrorists" to get information,
for the brutal military occupation of Palestine, and for
bombing innocent Iraqi people than there is devoting
money to feeding the hungry, providing decent housing
for the homeless and universal access to health care for
all in this country. It is amazingly wonderful to see a
major public official acting with compassion and
justice. I wish we had more public officials with the
moral character to do the same. "
Supporter Marie E. Clickner from Moberly, MIssouri on
Sun Jan 12 09:10:03 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Brian Reid from Whitby, Ontario, Canada on Sun
Jan 12 09:17:41 EST 2003 says:
" After reading several factual account of "legal
ineptitude" in trials involving the death penalty, it is
heartening to know that innocent people won't die in the
State of Illinois. Thank you Governor Ryan. "
Supporter Linda Crist from VA on Sun Jan 12 09:26:57 EST
2003 says:
" I applaud Governor Ryan for doing the right thing.
Life in prison is a greater punishment than the death
penalty but until the system is reformed to guarantee
that no innocent person will be executed, then none
should be. "
Supporter Arleen Ableman from Roseland, Florida, USA on
Sun Jan 12 09:39:14 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Christalla Rösener from Hamburg,, Germany on
Sun Jan 12 09:39:39 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Annamaria Musti from Brindisi ( Italy) on Sun
Jan 12 09:41:14 EST 2003 says:
Supporter margrit sidler from 6204 sempach switzerland
on Sun Jan 12 09:59:53 EST 2003 says:
" the only thing i can tell: it's great what Mr.. Ryan
has done. we all hope other governors will follow his
example. to be human is much more then kill human beings
who don't "belong" to the society......... "
34
Supporter .Dr.Voltz from 20095 Hamburg Germany on Sun
Jan 12 10:19:46 EST 2003 says:
" Großartig. Respekt für Ihren Mut und Ihren Einsatz "
Supporter Wolfgang Felske from Muenster, NRW, Germany on
Sun Jan 12 10:37:54 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jim Leschke from Rhinelander, Wisconsin 54501
on Sun Jan 12 10:38:58 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Monika J. Nicholas from Fort Worth, Texas, USA
on Sun Jan 12 11:05:36 EST 2003 says:
" I agree with Gov. Ryan's view that the classist,
racist manner in which the death penalty is applied is
wrong and it essentially only gives a fair shake to
those who can afford to hire good lawyers. Gov. Ryan
deserves to win the Nobel Peace Prize for his gutsy act
and for his part in causing other political leaders (and
many individuals) to take a good hard look at how the
death penalty is applied. "
Supporter Rainer Ehe from 73760 Ostfildern, Germany on
Sun Jan 12 11:06:01 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lennart Hagberg from Lerum, Sweden on Sun Jan
12 11:06:44 EST 2003 says:
" Since 1764,when Cesare Beccaria published his book
"About Crime and Punishment" it has been known in Europe
that the death penalty has nothing to do in the laws of
civilized countries. As a European lawyer and fiend of
the US I am glad to note that the death penalty at long
last is on its way out also in the US. "
Supporter Carol Miller from Bend, Oregon, USA on Sun Jan
12 11:14:18 EST 2003 says:
" May Creator always Bless you. EVERY state should
follow your lead. "
Supporter Mallory Kessler-Riddle from Ch 1028 Peverenges
Switzerland on Sun Jan 12 11:46:41 EST 2003 says:
" The Governor Ryan is the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Thank you
for your courage about he death penalty. Your sincerly
Mallory Kessler-Riddle "
Supporter Sydnie M. Starkey from Loveland, CO 80537 USA
on Sun Jan 12 12:02:13 EST 2003 says:
" We need more people like Governor Ryan. "
Supporter Dr. F.T. Friedberg from Lafayette, La. USA on
Sun Jan 12 12:09:07 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has behaved in a manner rare among
politicians. He has done what is morally correct in the
face of harsh criticism. While our national leadership
continues to do so much that is wrong, Governor Ryan can
sleep good tonight. He has done the right thing. "
35
Supporter Lisa Bowers from Greensboro, NC, USA on Sun
Jan 12 12:17:08 EST 2003 says:
" What an amazing decision, one I know Governor Ryan did
not approach lightly! It shows the utmost intelligence,
compassion, and reason. He truly examined all of the
issues at stake and made an informed decision that
demonstrates mercy and peace. Thank you! "
Supporter Corrine Mposi from Long Beach CA on Sun Jan 12
12:17:11 EST 2003 says:
" I was waiting to see if Governor Ryan was going to
show the same courageous action that he showed when he
halted, the "Killing Machine", to study the Death
Penalty and how it was applied in his state. I want to
thank you Governor Ryan for your courage and I support
you winning the Nobel Peace prize. I pray for you and
hope for the very best for you in the future. Blessings
I send to you. "
Supporter Ron Honberg from Rockville, Maryland on Sun
Jan 12 12:26:52 EST 2003 says:
" Congratulations to Governor Ryan for having the
courage to change! "
Supporter Ron Honberg from Rockville, Maryland on Sun
Jan 12 12:27:04 EST 2003 says:
" Congratulations to Governor Ryan for having the
courage to change! "
Supporter Eileen Lawler from Owen Sound, Ontario, Canada
on Sun Jan 12 12:49:26 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Kathy VanNote from Huntington Beach, Calif.,
USA on Sun Jan 12 13:23:59 EST 2003 says:
" It is about time someone ACTED! After my son went to
Prison do to injustice, I have lost all faith in the
system. Thanks for standing up like a MAN! "
Supporter Michelle M. Harvey from Starke, Florida on Sun
Jan 12 13:27:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Sandra Latten from Hampton, Florida on Sun Jan
12 13:28:25 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ralph W. Bromborsky from St, Augustine,
Florida USA on Sun Jan 12 13:29:04 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ruth E. Agans from Toms River, NJ on Sun Jan
12 13:29:35 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Barbara Frankenfield from Somerville , NJ on
Sun Jan 12 13:30:02 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Glenn Agans, MD from Orlando, on Sun Jan 12
13:30:25 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Glenn Agans, MD from Orlando, FL USA on Sun
Jan 12 13:30:37 EST 2003 says:
36
Supporter Annette Holden from Garner, NC United States
on Sun Jan 12 13:54:34 EST 2003 says:
" Great Job. Let's hope other states will follow suit. "
Supporter Nigel Baldwin from Portsmouth, Hampshire,
England, UK on Sun Jan 12 14:15:48 EST 2003 says:
" Just as the people's rulers are human, so too are the
people themselves. Therefore it takes true courage to go
against the majority view, and to tell the people what
most of them don't want to hear. Governor Ryan showed
that courage yesterday. Vox Populi is not necessarily
Vox Dei! "
Supporter Caroline Aiken from Hartlepool, England, UK on
Sun Jan 12 14:18:08 EST 2003 says:
Supporter David K. Williams, Jr. from Parker, CO, USA on
Sun Jan 12 14:45:50 EST 2003 says:
" Hopefully Governor Ryan's act will help others see the
injustice behind the death penalty. "
Supporter Crystel Holbein from Halifax, Va. 24558 on Sun
Jan 12 14:48:53 EST 2003 says:
" This Man if the first and I hope not the last who has
had the Guts to Do something about a System that is so
terribly flawed. Most people think that if a person is
in jail or on Death row that they are Guilty. There are
more people who are incarcerated that are innocent than
guilty people who are in Jail. This Man deserves the
Medal Of Honor for his Brave Stand on correcting
mistakes and frame up's of many imprisoned people. God
bless Him for He Is A Real American who stood alone and
did what all the other Governor's and President should
do and follow in his foot steps. "
Supporter Toni Rios from Richland Hills, Texas, USA on
Sun Jan 12 14:54:04 EST 2003 says:
" Thank God for giving Gov. Ryan the courage to do the
right thing. We should have more men and women like him."
Supporter Eric Hannum from Albuquerque, NM on Sun Jan 12
15:15:46 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Beverly Fest from Boulder, Colorado on Sun Jan
12 15:16:11 EST 2003 says:
" I support Gov. Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Deborah Allen from New York NY USA on Sun Jan
12 15:23:14 EST 2003 says:
" It will take more brave people following the path that
Governor Ryan has pioneered to end the evil of the death
penalty in America. "
Supporter Laura Ormsby from Roaring Spring, PA USA on
Sun Jan 12 15:31:33 EST 2003 says:
Supporter George T. Diller from Gainesville, Florida
32607, USA on Sun Jan 12 15:41:34 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you Governor Ryan, for your model of civilized
justice. May your example spread through our country. "
37
Supporter Sarah Dillon from Terre Haute, Indiana, USA on
Sun Jan 12 15:54:32 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Steve Barney from Oshkosh, WI, United States
on Sun Jan 12 15:54:40 EST 2003 says:
" I support the nomination of Illinois Governor George
H. Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize, in recognition of his
nobel actions in regard to the death penalty in the
State of Illinois, of the United States. "
Supporter B Anne Frye from Portland, OR 97213 on Sun Jan
12 16:05:36 EST 2003 says:
" The fact that two wrongs don't make a right plus the
fact that our system is too flawed on too many levels to
ensure that everyone put to death actually committed the
crime for which they have been convicted are just two of
the reasons the death penalty is so very wrong. Much is
said about a society in the way it treats it most
vulnerable and most disenfranchised citizens and we here
in the US have a long way to go in how we treat women,
newborns and children the poor, the mentally ill as well
as all those we have utterly failed who turn to crime.
Our prison system needs total reform, as does our
attitude toward criminals. Abolishment of the death
penalty is a good place to start. Anne Frye, midwife & author "
Supporter Leslie Sierra from Cambridge, MA USA on Sun
Jan 12 16:17:04 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Janet Pence from Savannah, Georgia on Sun Jan
12 16:21:01 EST 2003 says:
" I am a former resident of Illinois and a "yellow dog
democrat." I had serious differences with George Ryan's
policies and voted for Gov. Ryan's opponent. But I am
sure that Gov. Ryan will sit on the right hand of God
for this brave humanitarian act. I hope he gets the
Nobel Peace prize and a well deserved place in history."
Supporter Robert Elder from Tallahassee, FL, USA on Sun
Jan 12 16:35:02 EST 2003 says:
" Hooray for Gov. Ryan. We need more politicians with
courage to stand up for principle and the right thing!!"
Supporter Etienne Abelin from Basel, Switzerland on Sun
Jan 12 16:58:55 EST 2003 says:
" Bravo from Europe for a courageous leader! "
Supporter Catherine Stevens from Kenner, Louisiana, USA
on Sun Jan 12 17:11:05 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you Governor Ryan. You are a very wise man with
a highly evolved soul. God Bless You!!! "
Supporter Alf Alnes from Sandnes. Norway on Sun Jan 12
17:13:55 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Pennie Rowberry from Tamworth, Staffordshire,
United Kingdom on Sun Jan 12 17:28:24 EST 2003 says:
" A man who can be truly proud of himself, he deserves recognition. "
Supporter Michelle Rowberry from Tamworth,
Staffordshire, United Kingdom on Sun Jan 12 17:28:47 EST
2003 says:
38
Supporter Charles W. Daniels from Albuquerque, NM, USA
on Sun Jan 12 17:44:56 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Wayne Daniel from El Paso, Texas on Sun Jan 12
18:28:29 EST 2003 says:
" His stand is very courageous--and very right. "
Supporter Jason Luckett from Los Angeles, CA, USA on Sun
Jan 12 18:39:06 EST 2003 says:
" This is an amazing act of courage, but a simple act of
humanity. Peace, Jason "
Supporter Dr. Jill McCorkel from Oak Park, IL USA on Sun
Jan 12 18:46:04 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lois Richey from Madera, CA. USA on Sun Jan 12
18:50:11 EST 2003 says:
" Wonderful Speech!!!!!! I am with this MAN all the
way!!! I certainly wish this politician would run for
president! Illinois just lost the only honest governor
they will ever have!!!! "
Supporter Erica Rotondo from Phoenix, AZ on Sun Jan 12
18:52:21 EST 2003 says:
" Bravo! Thank you for your bold action. "
Supporter Judith A. Jones from Tacoma, WA, USA on Sun
Jan 12 18:58:56 EST 2003 says:
" If only other elected officials would learn from Gov.
Ryan's integrity and courage! "
Supporter Sonda Donovan from Crested Butte, CO, USA on
Sun Jan 12 19:02:03 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Alison Brauda from Jacksonville, Florida USA
on Sun Jan 12 19:23:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Vincent Wales from Jacksonville, Fl USA on Sun
Jan 12 19:25:18 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Elaine R. Swain from Tallahassee, FL USA on
Sun Jan 12 19:41:10 EST 2003 says:
" I feel Governor Ryan showed great strength in what he did. "
Supporter James M. Williamson from Cambridge,
Massachusetts on Sun Jan 12 19:42:39 EST 2003 says:
" Blessed are the peacemakers. And those who hunger for
justice. Governor Ryan will forever be remembered for
this act of mercy, compassion and justice. Bravo. "
Supporter Tina Bush from Cleve. Ohio USA on Sun Jan 12
19:52:37 EST 2003 says:
" It's about time a courageous politician stepped
forward and did what is right. "
Supporter Alison and John White from Geraldton Western
Australia on Sun Jan 12 19:53:37 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Patrick Nielsen Hayden from Brooklyn, New
York, USA on Sun Jan 12 20:18:34 EST 2003 says:
39
Supporter Sheila Glock from Hammond, Indiana on Sun Jan
12 20:36:18 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan deserves the utmost respect and recognition
for standing up for what he knows needs to be done.
Abolish the death penalty before any more innocent
people are killed or lose years of their life sitting on
death row. God bless you, Gov. Ryan! Texas pay
attention!!! "
Supporter Debra LeBlanc from Brimley, Michigan U. S. A.
on Sun Jan 12 20:41:46 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Doris Bush from Cleveland Heights, OH, USA on
Sun Jan 12 20:47:04 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan is a real humanitarian. It's not often that
a person of his statue and power will stand up for
"little people." May God bless Gov. Ryan and perhaps it
will spur others to make a difference. "
Supporter Maggie Hall from Dunedin, FL, US on Sun Jan 12
20:57:29 EST 2003 says:
" God bless Gov. Ryan for having the courage to do the
right thing instead of going along with the political
flow. He truly deserve the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Tom Sager from Rolla, MO, USA on Sun Jan 12
20:59:08 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you Governor Ryan "
Supporter Chantal Cormier from New Richmond, Quebec,
Canada on Sun Jan 12 21:32:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Karen Adams Harden from Terre Haute, IN, USA
on Sun Jan 12 22:10:28 EST 2003 says:
" I am in support of Gov. Ryan's commutation of
sentences for death row inmates. I fully
recommend/support his being given the Nobel Peace Prize.
"
Supporter Ruah Wild from Greenbrae, CA, America on Sun
Jan 12 22:14:38 EST 2003 says:
" How sweet it is to be reminded that we are made in the image of God. "
Supporter from on Sun Jan 12 22:24:18 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Darrell Simmons from Camino, CA, USA on Sun
Jan 12 22:25:36 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan recognized a problem and dealt with it
which is something most politicians have trouble doing. "
Supporter Mary Ann Herman from El Paso, Texas on Sun Jan
12 22:38:09 EST 2003 says:
" To equate Governor Ryan with the Nobel Peace Prize is
a GIVEN. Oftentimes I've heard a simple philosophy. "It
doesn't matter what your family or friends think. "It
doesn't matter what you think. What matters is what
God thinks and knows about you and the situation.
40
Supporter Margo Schulter from Sacramento, California,
USA on Sun Jan 12 22:38:56 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's action of commuting the sentences of
all Death Row inmates in Illinois is a signal step
toward total abolition of this inhuman penalty in the
USA and worldwide, in accord with the universal human
rights standards advocated by Amnesty International, the
European Union, and other organizations championing the
cause of global civilization. "
Supporter Barbara Hoppe from Columbia, Mo. U.S.A. on Sun
Jan 12 23:19:41 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you for your leadership. "
Supporter Marcia from Thompsonville, IL on Mon Jan 13
00:20:30 EST 2003 says:
Supporter GAYLE JOHNSON from SAN ANTONIO,TX USA on Mon
Jan 13 00:22:02 EST 2003 says:
" DEAR GOV RYAN I WANT TO PERSONALLY THANK YOU FOR DOING
WHAT OTHERS WILL AND IT SEEM WILL NOT I KNOW THERE ARE
MANY PEOPLE ON DEATH ROW IN TEXAS AND I PRAY THAT GOV
PERRY HEAR WHO SAYS HE IS A CHRISTIAN WILL REALLY LOOK
INTO DEATH ROW HERE IT IS SO SAD TO THINK THOSE MEN HAD
TO GO WITHOUT A HUMAN TOUCH LONELINESS AND TO BE FOUND
INNOCENT I PRAISE GOD FOR YOU GOV RYAN BE BLESSED AND
KNOW GOD IS SMILING DOWN ON YOU AND WILL OPEN THE
WINDOWS OF HEAVEN TO BLESS YOU IN SO MANY WAYS YOU WONT
HAVE ROOM TO RECEIVE GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS GAYLE
JOHNSON "
Supporter Greg Curtis from San Francisco on Mon Jan 13
01:31:37 EST 2003 says:
" America has seen no greater act of moral courage since
President Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation."
Supporter Lisa al-Bassam from Sugar Land, TX - USA on
Mon Jan 13 01:36:11 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Selcuk Taral from Istanbul, Turkey on Mon Jan
13 01:45:33 EST 2003 says:
" I definitely support Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace
Prize. I have a MS from University of Illinois, Urbana
(1971-72) I became proud when an Illinois Governor
showed the courage and integrity to speak out against
state terror. I hope his action will make an example for
other states. Please speak out against war in Iraq, as
well. Have not the sanctions already killed enough
children? Best regards, Selcuk Taral "
Supporter Amy Weicker from Hazleton, PA USA on Mon Jan
13 03:56:41 EST 2003 says:
" Great move on Gov. Ryan's part. The chance that one
innocent person is sentenced and killed... is one too
many. Recently, I was looking through Texas' Death Row
inmates who have been executed since the 80's... Many of
them were so young when they committed the crimes.. as
young as 16, maybe 17 I believe... I've done dumb things
in my youth as well.. Sometimes people deserve a second
chance later in life. "
41
Supporter Niklas Johansson from Stockholm, Sweden on Mon
Jan 13 05:19:41 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Margaret-Anne Mackay from Cambridge, England,
United Kingdom on Mon Jan 13 05:32:34 EST 2003 says:
" This seems to me to be an enormously significant and
courageous move. The United States is the most powerful
nation in the world, right now. It can afford to set an
example. Governor Ryan HAS set that example, at least
for his own state. I pray that the United States as a
whole will declare themselves against the Death Penalty,
and realize that it neither deters crime nor brings
'closure' to the families of the victims. It merely
creates MORE victims, in the families and friends of
those who have committed the crimes of violence. The
families of the VICTIMS are so often puzzled and
distressed, AFTER the execution of the person whose
death they have devoutly wished, to find that they are
STILL distressed and there is no relief through another
death -- another killing -- even in the name of
'Justice'. All human beings have their faults, and I
have no doubt Governor Ryan has his, but he has taken an
immensely important step. I hope that the sadness of the
victims (and/or their anger) will be tempered by mercy
and forgiveness. If we look around the world as it is,
it does seem that if only people could forgive each
other, there COULD be PEACE. I believe that in
forgiveness will be the salvation of the world. "
Supporter Moritz from Zürich, Switzerland on Mon Jan 13
05:53:29 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has all my respect for his courage to
speak out against the terrorist American justice system.
unless more people in important positions speak out and
act now, the USA will slip only further into fascism.
considering the evil powers against him, Governor Ryan's
speech has revolutionary significance. it's for these
kind of courageous men that the nobel peace prize is
intended! "
Supporter Hans Niklas Kuhn from Lucerne, Switzerland on
Mon Jan 13 06:14:20 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Irene Thompson from Erkrath, NW, Germany on
Mon Jan 13 07:34:33 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jim Kenny from Oak Lawn, IL USA on Mon Jan 13
07:52:47 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Marcel Falk from Bauhofstr. 8, 71634
Ludwigsburg, Germany on Mon Jan 13 07:57:12 EST 2003
says:
" Stop killing in the name of a so called civilized
state, thank you Mr. Ryan! "
Supporter Beverly Duguid from Atlantic Beach, Florida US
on Mon Jan 13 08:15:59 EST 2003 says:
" He has proven to be an exceptional man - taking a
stand and courageously seeing it through. A man of
integrity and honor. "
42
Supporter Graciela Abelin -Sas, MD from New York on Mon
Jan 13 08:32:10 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Egidius Streiff from Basle Switzerland on Mon
Jan 13 08:38:18 EST 2003 says:
" I am only sad, that we have to be laudatory for
something as natural as this decision - but as we have
to, I'll do it with all my heart! "
Supporter Bobbie Isbell from Scotland on Mon Jan 13
08:42:36 EST 2003 says:
" Kudos to you Gov! What an exceptional and brave act.
Your courage in the face of adversity deserves some kind
of gold mark for you. Thank you for making it possible
to believe there is hope still in our campaign against
the death penalty. Bobbie Isbell Scotland "
Supporter Karl Erik Tønsberg from Oslo, Norway on Mon
Jan 13 09:01:27 EST 2003 says:
" Death sentences are beastly, and not worthy a nation
of culture. "
Supporter Linda Bolzern from Bremgarten/bern,
Switzerland on Mon Jan 13 09:05:35 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Mary Kennedy from Louisville, KY 40205 on Mon
Jan 13 09:14:04 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Sandra Blake from Delray Beach, FL USA on Mon
Jan 13 09:40:43 EST 2003 says:
" I was thrilled to learn of Ryan's decision. What a
precedent setting decision and refreshing to see a
politician who truly stands up for what he believes is right! "
Supporter marion craft from Scotland on Mon Jan 13
09:45:36 EST 2003 says:
" I support Governor Ryan 100%. He deserves this award "
Supporter Molly Graver from Albany, New York, USA on Mon
Jan 13 09:46:35 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Logan Turner from Lincoln, NE, USA on Mon Jan
13 10:01:04 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Daniel Stepner from Newton MA USA on Mon Jan
13 10:14:45 EST 2003 says:
" Hardened criminals that murder must, of course, be
incarcerated so that they are not a danger. What is not
spoken here is that many are victims of an economic
system that touts wealth but makes it unavailable to
most. Murder is not excusable and murderers must be
called to account, but let's keep asking ourselves why
they murder and do something systemic about it.
Otherwise we may be unwitting accomplices. "
Supporter Zachary A from on Mon Jan 13 10:22:03 EST 2003 says:
43
Supporter Zachary A. Ives from Albuquerque, New Mexico,
USA on Mon Jan 13 10:23:34 EST 2003 says:
" If more politicians had Governor Ryan's courage, our
country would be a much better place. "
Supporter Lorenz Wolffers from New York, NY, USA on Mon
Jan 13 10:30:28 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Colleen Jennings from Basel, Switzerland on
Mon Jan 13 10:44:24 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Aaron Joseph from Chicago, ILL on Mon Jan 13
10:53:43 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ruedi Staehli from Bern, Switzerland on Mon
Jan 13 10:54:15 EST 2003 says:
" Congratulations for a courageous decision! "
Supporter Alex Braden from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on
Mon Jan 13 11:06:55 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lauren Hillman from Kent, England, UK on Mon
Jan 13 11:08:58 EST 2003 says:
" I readily support the campaign, well done to Governor
Ryan for making a stand against capital punishment, many
people still await their fate, like Kenny Richey, an
innocent Scott on death row, maybe one day he may get
the Justice he deserves. "
Supporter Mike Anders from Switzerland on Mon Jan 13
11:14:36 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Anne Barnes from Tallahassee, FL USA on Mon
Jan 13 11:17:50 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Diane W. Saunders from Boston, Massachusetts
02118 on Mon Jan 13 11:22:26 EST 2003 says:
" What a lovely man and I support his actions
wholeheartedly -- the death penalty must be abolished -"
Supporter Esther Echenbaum Jonisz from Buenos Aires,
Argentina on Mon Jan 13 11:29:02 EST 2003 says:
" In such a selfish globalized world, it is fantastic to
have such a human being!!! With love, Esther. "
Supporter Lubna Debbini from Santa Ana, CA, USA on Mon
Jan 13 11:39:38 EST 2003 says:
" I am an investigator with the Public Defender in
Orange County, California. In this State, the Governor
can hardly parole anyone let alone pardon them. Governor
Ryan's move was not only brave but it was the right and
moral thing to do. The death penalty should not be an
option, much less in a flawed legal system. Excellent
work Mr. Ryan. I hope you get the Nobel Peace Prize.
Regards, Lubna Debbini "
Supporter Anne Krauss from Port Washington, NY, USA on
Mon Jan 13 11:47:37 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Wendy Eaton from New York, NY, USA on Mon Jan
13 11:50:50 EST 2003 says:
44
Supporter Rev. T. Frank Kennedy, S.J. from Boston
College, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA on Mon Jan 13 11:56:47
EST 2003 says:
" Dear Governor Ryan: Thank you for your courage and for
standing against the d penalty. "
Supporter Father Andrew Vollkommer from
andrewjv@logicsouth.com on Mon Jan 13 12:02:31 EST 2003
says:
" A wonderful effort to end the horrors of the death penalty. "
Supporter Cammie Nichols from Albuquerque, New Mexico,
USA on Mon Jan 13 12:07:46 EST 2003 says:
" I admire his courage for taking this stand. "
Supporter Melinda Wightman from Columbus, OH 43202 on
Mon Jan 13 12:08:03 EST 2003 says:
" Action makes a difference "
Supporter Gina Thrasher from Fresno, California, United
States on Mon Jan 13 12:08:17 EST 2003 says:
" God bless you, Governor Ryan! "
Supporter Lynne Baldwin from Amarillo, Texas USA on Mon
Jan 13 12:23:27 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you.. for a voice of reason. "
Supporter Jay S. Varner from Atlanta, GA on Mon Jan 13
12:43:58 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you so much. Your actions and courage have
bettered the lives of so many. "
Supporter Marianne Potje from Berkeley, CA, USA on Mon
Jan 13 12:59:55 EST 2003 says:
" I was born & raised in Illinois and I'm very impressed
that Governor Ryan has taken this step towards ending
the institutionalized injustice against these prisoners
and against the poor & people of color in general. I
wish the families of victims would understand that
executing a prisoner, especially one who may well be
innocent of the crime, will not bring back their loved
ones, and is not the way to resolve grief. "
Supporter Christina Kraich-Rogers from Hampton, NH, USA
German citizen on Mon Jan 13 13:08:59 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is my nominee for the Nobel peace prize.
May many more take human rights serious and follow his
example. "
Supporter Eileen McDermott from Los Angeles, CA USA on
Mon Jan 13 13:12:21 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan is a very courageous man and one who truly
stands up for what he believes is right, not what is
politically correct. "
45
Supporter Adriaan J.W. Mak from 555 Kininvie Drive,
London ON, Canada, N6G 1P1 on Mon Jan 13 13:19:06 EST
2003 says:
" Dear Governor, As contact person for the last 11
years, for persons falsely accused of child sexual
abuse, I have seen too many cases where poor
investigation, prosecution bias, misguided expert
witnesses and poor defense work caused people to be
wrongly convicted. Even the appeal system failed to help
those who ended up incarcerated and who, considering the
nature of the allegations against them, ended up falling
victim to severe prison inmate violence. I therefore
applaud your action to end capital punishment and see it
as the beginning of a new look at police investigations,
prosecutionary zeal, the justice and the penal systems."
Supporter Gail Blackwell from Los Angeles, Calif., USA
on Mon Jan 13 13:32:11 EST 2003 says:
" At a time in our country where our leaders are
out-of-control and making nonsensical decisions, I
applaud Gov. Ryan for washing his hands of the cruel
injustice of our criminal justice system. He deserves
the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Kevin Ryan from Murfreesboro, TN, USA on Mon
Jan 13 13:48:01 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan, you are a true visionary in a land going blind. "
Supporter Agnes Sievers from Mosinee,WI on Mon Jan 13
14:04:36 EST 2003 says:
" Sincerely hope you earn the "Nobel", you have
certainly earned it by your courage. Godspeed "
Supporter ANNE LE GALL SUEL from AURORA, Colorado USA on
Mon Jan 13 14:13:20 EST 2003 says:
" Finally... "
Supporter Michael Walsh from New York, NY USA on Mon Jan
13 14:26:28 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has shown great courage and taken a
stand for what is right. Thank you Governor Ryan!! "
Supporter James Monahan from Phoenix, Arizona USA on Mon
Jan 13 14:27:05 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Pam Thrasher from Garden, City, AL on Mon Jan
13 14:29:30 EST 2003 says:
" I totally admire and respect anyone that would take
such a stand. This action took tremendous courage and
the determination to see that justice is done. I wish
that other Governors would show such courage and not
just continue to go along with the continuing injustices
all over this country. Isn't that their jobs, to protect
and see that our states are run properly? Equal justice
for all? "
Supporter lilly strouts from auburn, washington (USA) on
Mon Jan 13 14:38:20 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you, Governor Ryan, for doing the right thing. "
Supporter Ken McGill from Booneville, Mississippi, USA
on Mon Jan 13 14:41:30 EST 2003 says:
46
Supporter Celia F.McWee from on Mon Jan 13 15:06:24 EST
2003 says:
Supporter from on Mon Jan 13 15:10:59 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Celia F.McWee from Augusta, Georgia on Mon Jan
13 15:11:48 EST 2003 says:
" For those that don't agree with what Gov. Ryan has
done; keep this in mind: every time a death row inmate
goes up for an appeal, the victim's family has to go
thru the pain of re-living their loss. Life w/o parole
is more painful than death itself and that should bring
closure to a victim's family. Does anybody think of the inmate's family?? "
Supporter M S Meyers from Upland, CA USA on Mon Jan 13
15:54:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter The Rev. Bruce R. Bramlett from San Rafael,
California, U.S.A. on Mon Jan 13 15:56:14 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan has exercised a rare quality of integrity
and moral discernment in his leadership to address the
overwhelmingly dysfunctional aspects of the Illinois and
also the American system of state-mandated death. His
courage and strength of character in the face of
significant opposition must stand out as a beacon of
light for all people of conscience who stand for the
dignity of the human person. Ryan also represents the
standard now established by his action for all political
leaders throughout our country as they are forced by
reality to address the flaws in their own legal
structures that continue to kill in the name of justice."
Supporter Jukka Lumme from Finland on Mon Jan 13
15:57:51 EST 2003 says:
" Brave work. God made us to protect life, not to end
it. God bless you. In Finnish: Urheaa työtä. Jumalan
siunausta sinulle. "
Supporter Fern Schneiderman from San Francisco,
California USA on Mon Jan 13 15:58:08 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Chris Reddy from Imperial Beach, CA, USA on
Mon Jan 13 16:00:40 EST 2003 says:
" I hope Gov. Ryan gets the Nobel award. This is a
wonderful human. We have added a hot link to his photo
on our main page. His good-bye kiss to IL is the coolest
thing we have ever seen. Our salute to this great
humanitarian is: http://coolhotlinks.com/main.html ...peace "
Supporter Hotze W. Oldhoff from Netherlands on Mon Jan
13 16:18:51 EST 2003 says:
" The intellectual honesty and courage of Governor
George Ryan deserves a Nobel Peace Prize. "
47
Supporter Susan M. Garrett from Decatur, Georgia USA on
Mon Jan 13 16:40:01 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan showed incredible wisdom and courage in
declaring that the legitimate objective of the system is
to do justice, not to obtain vengeance for family
members of victims. Crime victims and their families
need to look inside themselves, to their families and
friends, and to their faith to find solace and closure
-- more violence will not provide this. As a crime
survivor who was repeatedly raped, stabbed and left for
dead, I think I am qualified to say this. "
Supporter Carol A. Robinson, M.Ed. from Princeton,
Indiana, USA on Mon Jan 13 16:42:44 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Karen Johnston from Hamilton, NY, USA on Mon
Jan 13 16:44:21 EST 2003 says:
Supporter sophie hüsler from basel, switzerland on Mon
Jan 13 16:46:07 EST 2003 says:
" that was a great step forward in u.s. history "
Supporter Dana Rye from Tucson, Arizona, USA on Mon Jan
13 16:47:32 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Kathryn Koch from Chicago, IL, USA on Mon Jan
13 16:52:10 EST 2003 says:
" I want to thank Governor Ryan for taking a moral stand
against the corrupt and unfair death penalty system in
Illinois. It is all too rare to see a politician act
with any kind of integrity, but after Saturday, I am
extremely proud to be an Illinois resident. "
Supporter Mary from Louisville, KY on Mon Jan 13
17:13:12 EST 2003 says:
" I have been looking for a site to thank the Governor
for his courageous decision. I know that some families
of crime victims are experiencing pain because of this
decision, but I can not help but feel that we were put
here to support and help each other, even those who
commit heinous crimes. We must start somewhere to build
a more humane society. Thank you, Governor. "
Supporter David Smith from Cambridge, MA, USA on Mon Jan
13 17:14:08 EST 2003 says:
" I think Governor Ryan's bold move to commute those
death sentences to live was one of the more noble and
enlightened decisions an American politician has made.
Despite the emotional predilection of his constituency
to support capital punishment, he as a leader and as
representative, has brought forth the argument that
killing the guilty for the benefit of the victims is not
worth the price of even one innocent life. Capital
punishment does not deter violent crime; so the chance
of killing one innocent life is not one worth taking. "
Supporter Cara Sartor from New York, NY, US on Mon Jan
13 17:32:50 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Johannes Anders from Nuerensdorf/Zurich
Switzerland on Mon Jan 13 17:35:06 EST 2003 says:
" Yes !!! "
48
Supporter alma from italy on Mon Jan 13 17:36:41 EST
2003 says:
" all my support to you and to all intelligent people,
like you, who appreciate life and justice and hate blood
and death. I hope that many political leaders (all over
the world) will follow your bright example. alma a young
Italian mother PS ask Mr. Bush to stop the war. all the
world knows that it has only economical and racial
basis!!!! civilized people fight against violence, of
every kind it may be thank you a lot "
Supporter Kristie from Morehead City.NC USA on Mon Jan
13 17:51:53 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you Gov. Ryan!!! "
Supporter Nancy Hart from Reno, Nevada, USA on Mon Jan
13 18:11:09 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan richly deserves the Nobel Peace Prize
for his courage and commitment. "
Supporter Benjamin Harris from Columbus, Ohio on Mon Jan
13 18:21:01 EST 2003 says:
" I would like to commend Governor Ryan for taking a
stance on capital punishment that should serve as an
example to all office holders. It may not be the easy
road to travel, but the flaws of our judicial system
have to be brought out in the open. "
Supporter linda rice-mandigo from Clinton Corners, NY
12514 USA on Mon Jan 13 18:30:21 EST 2003 says:
" I think this man has shown enormous courage and shared
his growth as a human being during his term as governor,
showing his commitment to justice and life, rather than
revenge and death. I can not imagine any one more
deserving of the Nobel Prize for Peace than Gov. Ryan. "
Supporter Tiana Dreymor from Columbus, Ohio USA on Mon
Jan 13 18:48:17 EST 2003 says:
" God bless Gov. Ryan! "
Supporter Michelle Woodard from Deltona, Florida, USA on
Mon Jan 13 19:02:48 EST 2003 says:
" If only your moral conscience could be felt by
everyone...what a wonderful world it would be. "
Supporter Maria Telesco from Fresno, CA, USA on Mon Jan
13 19:04:18 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan has exhibited great courage by taking the
moral high road and commuting all death sentences in
Illinois. He knew he would be criticized, yet, knowing
this, he did what was right, not what was popular or
expedient. George Ryan deserves the Nobel Peace Prize.
He is an extraordinary human being. "
Supporter Amy Gilgan from Champaign, IL USA on Mon Jan
13 19:24:25 EST 2003 says:
" I am proud of Gov. Ryan for taking a stand despite the
political hellfire he'll certainly face. "
49
Supporter kenneth L. Brickley from Loretto, TN 38469 on
Mon Jan 13 19:27:46 EST 2003 says:
" Nobel Peace Prize For Governor George H. Ryan of
Illinois. This an historic day for justice in Illinois.
The good people of the great state should be especially
proud of Governor Ryan for his courage and desire to
enforce not only the constitution of Illinois but the
United States Constitution as well. This Governor has
restored my confidence in our American jurisprudence.
Thank you Governor Ryan for your courage! Cordially,
Kennethb L. Brickley "
Supporter Connie Short from Berkshire, NY USA on Mon Jan
13 19:38:05 EST 2003 says:
" I think what he did was great!!!!!!!! "
Supporter MARK DORAZIO from LOS ANGELES, CA, USA on Mon
Jan 13 19:50:35 EST 2003 says:
" YES I SUPPORT GOV. RYAN FOR THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE "
Supporter Joan Pickering from Sutter Creek, Ca. USA on
Mon Jan 13 20:13:07 EST 2003 says:
" You did the right thing when the right thing is a hard thing to do. "
Supporter Bobby Overman from Bloomington, Indiana on Mon
Jan 13 20:38:22 EST 2003 says:
" It takes a brave man to do what you have done Governor
Ryan. Thank you for standing up for what you believe in
and what is right. You deserve the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Jenni Taylor from West Midlands, England, UK
on Mon Jan 13 20:50:34 EST 2003 says:
" At last, some sanity, methodology and compassion, this gives us all hope "
Supporter Will Warner from Lexington, Kentucky, USA on
Mon Jan 13 20:51:20 EST 2003 says:
" This is a man of true courage. He is an example to me
and thousands more. If what he did were not so
important, there would not be the firestorm of criticism
the he his now enduring. No matter what his opponents
may find him guilty of in the next months and years, the
Nobel Peace Prize is a fit tribute to this man. "
Supporter Ron Miller from Glen Allen, Virginnia USA on
Mon Jan 13 21:30:51 EST 2003 says:
" Finally, a politician with some courage! "
Supporter Veronica from California on Mon Jan 13
22:12:10 EST 2003 says:
" GOD BLESS GOV. RYAN! "
Supporter Sue Arcuri from Utica, New York, U.S.A. on Mon
Jan 13 22:12:30 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's act of compassion and courage, his
words reflecting the truth and horrors of our criminal
justice system, and his unprecedented act of bravery,
shall change the face of a nation. He is most deserving
of the Nobel Peace Prize. God Bless "
Supporter Joseph Rice from Sacramento, California USA on
Mon Jan 13 22:40:51 EST 2003 says:
50
Supporter Rob Markfield from Springfield, Illinois, USA
on Mon Jan 13 23:10:06 EST 2003 says:
" Survivors have a major claim on our conscience and
resources, but they cannot ask the State to commit a
killing in our name. I have had a very peripheral role
in the clemency movement in Illinois and I can say that
the people involved- defense lawyers, investigators,
human rights activists, students - are among the finest
people there are. "
Supporter Martha Wolberg from New York, New York, USA on
Mon Jan 13 23:15:34 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is a real hero. He had the courage to
change his mind on the death penalty and stand up for
what is moral and right. "
Supporter Kathleen Manning from Woodbridge, virginia
U.S.A. on Mon Jan 13 23:56:22 EST 2003 says:
" It's about time we wake up to the Real facts . "
Supporter Harold Hauser from New York, NY on Mon Jan 13
23:58:04 EST 2003 says:
" Governor, you did the right thing. "
Supporter candy ayala from palmdale ,calif on Tue Jan 14
00:59:14 EST 2003 says:
" GOD BLESS YOU MR. RYAN "
Supporter Pierina Di Stefano from Italy on Tue Jan 14
01:08:47 EST 2003 says:
" There are no words to express the happiness I feel
considering that a great man succeeded in breaking that
spiral of death and understood that eliminating a person
is not better than rehabilitating. Human beings are
naturally good and, if someone is ruined,it's our duty
to understand the reasons and help him to start again. "
Supporter Chris Handsone from Los Angeles, CA, USA on
Tue Jan 14 02:00:25 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you Governor Ryan. "
Supporter Siegfried Flesch from Hamburg, Germany on Tue
Jan 14 02:39:43 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Penny Stallings from CA on Tue Jan 14 03:10:35
EST 2003 says:
" Thank you for your courage, Gov Ryan. "
Supporter Alexander J. Seiler from Zuerich, Switzerland
on Tue Jan 14 03:34:44 EST 2003 says:
" Ryan for president! "
Supporter Fritz-Joachim Boehm from Berlin, Germany on
Tue Jan 14 04:51:46 EST 2003 says:
" RYAN IS A TRUE AMERICAN "
Supporter Fionnuala O'Connor from Dublin, Ireland on Tue
Jan 14 04:52:59 EST 2003 says:
" This man has shown great courage in his efforts to
stand for human rights in the face of great support for
capital punishment in the US. I commend him for his
bravery, honesty and integrity. "
51
Supporter Hammes,Sascha from
Gebhardshain,Rhenania-Palatine,Germany on Tue Jan 14
05:06:45 EST 2003 says:
" There's no place for death penalty in civilized
democracy. An execution is just another crime added.
Revenge is not justice and therefore it's not the
assignment of the jurisdiction. "
Supporter Joachim Bode from Wetzlar, Germany on Tue Jan
14 05:47:51 EST 2003 says:
" A great step on the way to the rule of law! "
Supporter Mary Nordkvelle from United Kingdom on Tue Jan
14 06:36:30 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has caused a significant change to the
course of history by his act of releasing and commuting
the Illinois Death Row Inmates . His speech moved me to tears. "
Supporter Moor, Paul from Berlin (Germany) on Tue Jan 14
06:48:38 EST 2003 says:
" As an American expatriate, long shamed by the USA's
barbarous continuation of uncivilized capital
punishment, I whole-heartedly support Illinois's Gov.
George Ryan to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter marina boehm from Berlin Germany on Tue Jan 14
07:34:21 EST 2003 says:
Supporter James Epperson from Dortmund, Germany on Tue
Jan 14 08:21:31 EST 2003 says:
" The death sentence is a reflection of the Old
Testament Eye-for-an-Eye Biblical punishment. We
so-called Christian Americans love to criticize other
religions that we consider to be fanatic in their forms
of punishment. But what can be more fanatic than putting
innocent men to death. The statistics revealed by
Governor Ryan should shock every thinking person. The
death penalty system doesn't work in Illinois. Why
should be believe that it works perfectly in other
states or in nearby Texas? The then Governor Bush was
quoted as saying that he believed that no innocent man
had ever been executed in Texas. Only a totally naive
politician or a complete fool could believe such
nonsense. I hope that Governor Ryan of Illinois will be
nominated for and receive the Nobel Peace Prize. We are
currently fighting terrorism world wide. The death
penalty is a form of terrorism currently being practiced in 38 US states. "
Supporter Elizabeth Pawlak from Greenbelt, MD, USA on
Tue Jan 14 08:26:16 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan had shown rare courage, civility and
intelligence in the country poisoned by hatred,
selfishness and eye-for-eye mentality. "
Supporter Eric Isbell from Scotland on Tue Jan 14
08:34:43 EST 2003 says:
52
Supporter Sister Colette Livingston from Cleveland Ohio
USA on Tue Jan 14 08:56:35 EST 2003 says:
" I respect (and pray in thanksgiving for the courage of
a man like) Governor George Ryan. I pray daily that
others will follow his example. We can still become an
honorable nation, state by state, with examples of
courage such as George Ryan. Please, let's stop killing
people to emphasize that killing people is WRONG. Thank
you again, Governor Ryan. "
Supporter Ines Keubler from Brussels, Belgium on Tue Jan
14 09:38:03 EST 2003 says:
" Dear Mr. Ryan, I have been delighted when I read about
your amnesty for 156 inmates of Illinois prisons. I am a
student of political science in Germany (doing an
internship at the European Parliament in Brussels at the
moment) who is a volunteer for amnesty international,
too. Although I think that the USA are far from
abolishing the death penalty I hope that many more
governors will follow your ideals. Yours faithfully,
Ines Keubler "
Supporter Ksenija Arsic from Guelph,Ontario,Canada on
Tue Jan 14 10:04:20 EST 2003 says:
" It is time for a death as a punishment to join to all
other morally condemned corporal punishments that were
practiced troughout the history of human kind but have
been extinct. I do support Gov.Ryan for the Nobel Peace
Prize. He did a great job. That was brave ! "
Supporter Marlene Foster from Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA
on Tue Jan 14 10:36:51 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you for having the courage to do the right thing
in the face of so much wrong thinking and political
posturing. You are a true leader and a wise citizen.
Blessings to you and yours. "
Supporter Edward La Combe from Gainesville, FL USA on
Tue Jan 14 11:07:10 EST 2003 says:
" It's so rare and refreshing -- a politician with courage and a soul! "
Supporter William Funke from Elizabeth, NJ USA on Tue
Jan 14 11:38:28 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Wayles Browne from Ithaca, New York, U.S.A. on
Tue Jan 14 11:53:44 EST 2003 says:
" I am very impressed with the courage Governor Ryan
showed in changing his opinion based on experience, in
pardoning four inmates, and in commuting all the death
sentences of prisoners in the state of Illinois. The
Norwegian Nobel Committee mentions professors of social
sciences among people specially qualified to nominate
candidates, so let me add that I am a professor of
linguistics at Cornell University, and that is one of
the social sciences. Wayles Browne "
Supporter Astrid Ehrler from Mainz Germany on Tue Jan 14
12:02:19 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Benjamin Bergjuergen from Bonn, Germany on Tue
Jan 14 12:02:46 EST 2003 says:
53
Supporter Lori E. Cole from Utica, New York, USA on Tue
Jan 14 12:07:31 EST 2003 says:
" Hear, hear! "
Supporter Robert Garot from Cincinnati, Ohio on Tue Jan
14 12:34:41 EST 2003 says:
" God Bless You! "
Supporter Misty A. Shores from New Brunswick, NJ USA on
Tue Jan 14 12:36:30 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan, I applaud you for your courage and
strength of character. If many more stood by their
convictions and not their shallow inhumane rhetoric this
country would be a more equitable and humane society. "
Supporter christoph grab from zurich, switzerland on Tue
Jan 14 12:45:17 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Curtis Wright from Germany on Tue Jan 14
13:01:44 EST 2003 says:
" For going against the odds in doing what right in way
of Capitol Punishment. Verbally openness about the
unfairness, lack of justice and in my opinion the misuse
of this deadly tool of the Justice System. This Great
Man has proven that he is willing to put his reputation
and livelihood on the line for what is morally right.
This man is a Leader of Leaders. God Bless Him. "
Supporter Claudia Whitman from Peaks Island, ME, USA on
Tue Jan 14 13:07:36 EST 2003 says:
" I have just read Gov. Ryan's speech for the third
time. It far transcends the debate over the Illinois
death penalty. It is a journey of conscience by a man
with the courage to take seriously the responsibility of
leadership and to take action, no matter the
consequences. I have read nothing more powerful and more
necessary in these troubled times. I can think of no
person more deserving of this great honor. "
Supporter Vilja Lumme from Finland on Tue Jan 14
13:15:23 EST 2003 says:
" Hyvä päätös Kuvernööri George H. Ryan Vilja Lumme 10
vuotta "
Supporter Dr. O. B. Hemmerle from Mannheim, Baden,
Germany on Tue Jan 14 13:21:05 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Valtteri Lumme from Finland on Tue Jan 14
13:30:32 EST 2003 says:
" BRAVO! Hyvin tehty Kuvernööri George H. Ryan Valtteri
Lumme 8.v. Hyvä!!!!!!!!!! "
Supporter Liz Baumgarten from Arlington, VA, USA on Tue
Jan 14 13:34:43 EST 2003 says:
" This is what peace and leadership means. "
54
Supporter carol touchet from vancouver, washington, usa
on Tue Jan 14 13:39:22 EST 2003 says:
" absolutely the bravest, mostly noble speech I've heard
in a long time, and coming from a supposedly
conservative Republican...this man listened to his
conscience and put his heart and what was right above
all else and threw dirty politics to the wind for once!
Hurrah! A bright day for Illinois! "
Supporter Daniel Schnapke from Detmold, NRW, Germany on
Tue Jan 14 13:43:28 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Belamir Evisen from Mannheim, Baden, Germany
on Tue Jan 14 13:45:50 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Felix Laufer from Mannheim, Germany on Tue Jan
14 13:45:58 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Scott Cruse from Covington, Kentucky, USA on
Tue Jan 14 14:07:57 EST 2003 says:
" I have to admit, I have mixed feelings on the death
penalty. What bothers me most about is the way it is
used in this country. Basically, if you have enough
money, and especially if you're white, you're not going
to have to worry much about it unless you do something
really heinous. I applaud Gov. Ryan of Illinois for
commuting the sentences of those on Death Row to life.
There may well have been people who deserved to die, but
the improprieties taken by police and prosecutors in a
few cases made all the convictions suspect. Once
somebody's been executed, you just can't bring them back
when you find out they were tortured into confession.
And from a purely Christian point of view, as long as
someone is alive, there's always the chance for
repentance. That's why they called them Penitentiaries
in the first place (though they seem to have strayed a
bit from that ideal). "
Supporter Deborah E from on Tue Jan 14 14:09:44 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Deborah Eagan from Lincoln, NE, USA on Tue Jan
14 14:14:50 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan courageous action makes me proud. His
words were eloquent. Would we do more for victims
families with the money spent looking for revenge? The
killing machine must stop. Let us move together as a
nation to support victim's families and learn the
lessons of love. We can keep our citizens safe while
keeping killers in prison. "
Supporter Wolfgang Geiss from Augsburg, Bavaria, Germany
on Tue Jan 14 15:32:24 EST 2003 says:
55
Supporter andre renaut from Nogent sur marne, France on
Tue Jan 14 16:10:20 EST 2003 says:
" When i new about the decision of governor Ryan, i told
me that something was changing in the USA. I give my
support to Governor Ryan for Nobel Prize because many
minds have to be changed to stop capital punishment all
over the world. Pope Paul II recently said "War is a
humanity defeat" and i would be likely to say that
"Capital Punishment is also a humanity defeat". Let's
changed our minds. Regards and pray god "
Supporter Hans Feigenwinter from Basel, Switzerland on
Tue Jan 14 16:15:00 EST 2003 says:
Supporter M. Rae from Galveston, TX on Tue Jan 14
16:20:24 EST 2003 says:
" This was a very courageous act - in spite of whatever
else hangs over his head. The state does not have the
right to kill to avenge killing (which is what state
killing really is). This is certainly akin to waging war
for peace and other oxymoronic avenues of action. Please
consider the courage and strength of character this
person garnered to act on this level, and the fortitude
he needed to face the admonitions he knew we going to
rain down on him. Facts do, definitely show many
innocents have been murdered by the state and more are
waiting for the same. What mortals can so coldly and
consciously determine that another must be put to death?
Our system is faulty and Gov. Ryan is part of a very
needed change of heart and mind. "
Supporter Annika Fischer from Essen / NRW/ Germany on
Tue Jan 14 16:21:59 EST 2003 says:
" Mr. Ryan did a really great job! "
Supporter Tony Catano from Dallas, TX, USA on Tue Jan 14
16:26:10 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has exhibited great courage and moral
fortitude in the action he took to empty Illinois' death
row. He deserves our admiration and applause for what he
has done amidst a nation too eager to look the other way
and accept the death machine as part of our justice
system. His role will be enshrined in our history books
as part of the journey we took on the road to abolition
of capital punishment in the USA. "
Supporter Kai Hueter from Marburg,Germany on Tue Jan 14
16:46:21 EST 2003 says:
" My opinion (as a German citizen) is: Capitol
Punishment should not be tolerated in a country that
calls itself a "Democracy". "
Supporter Kai Hueter from Marburg,Germany on Tue Jan 14
16:48:19 EST 2003 says:
" My opinion (as a German citizen) is: Capitol
Punishment should not be tolerated in a country that
calls itself a "Democracy". "
56
Supporter Lisa Connell from Sawyer, MI USA on Tue Jan 14
17:15:01 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan examined his initial beliefs on this
subject, found them not to be true for himself anymore,
took a stand on an unpopular subject at great risk to
his career, and did the right thing. And in turn, drew
attention to a very important issue and saved many
innocent peoples' lives. What more could one ask of a
person? Giving him the Nobel Peace Prize would be a
validation of his great service to the state of
Illinois, our country, and humankind. This is a man I
can call a hero for our times. "
Supporter Thomas Blank from Tübingen, Baden-Württemberg,
Germany on Tue Jan 14 17:36:52 EST 2003 says:
" My deep respect to a man of civil courage. "
Supporter Jason L. Gohlke from Berkeley, CA on Tue Jan
14 17:50:42 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's action to commute the sentences of all
of Illinois' death row inmates was courageous and
heroic. He has clearly spent a great deal of time and
thought on this issue. Despite the possibility of harsh
criticism, Governor George Ryan did the right thing to
save possibly innocent lives and draw attention to the
great injustices inherent in our criminal justice
system. For that, I believe he would be an excellent
candidate to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Clara A. T. Boggs from 95245 Rink Creek Lane,
Coquille, Oregon, 97423 on Tue Jan 14 18:13:48 EST 2003
says:
" Governor Ryan is a hero for having the guts to commute
those people on death row, in the face of opposition
from those who support death. Clara "
Supporter Margot Considine from Pittsboro, NC, USA on
Tue Jan 14 18:22:45 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Regina Cappelletti from Canton, Michigan,
48188, USA on Tue Jan 14 18:23:44 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is a light in a very foggy sky, here in
the USA these days. The man did the right thing. At a
time when rhetoric rings everywhere, he used his best
judgment and did what he thought was the right thing to
do. He didn't have to. He could have had a gentler
retirement. He used his best judgment and did the right
thing. As a citizen of the USA, I would like him to know
that I appreciate his standing-up. "
Supporter Liz Chillingworth from UK on Tue Jan 14
19:18:01 EST 2003 says:
" Thank God that at last there is someone in a real
position of authority in the USA who is prepared to
stand up for justice "
57
Supporter Irma Deaquino from Tustin, CA, USA on Tue Jan
14 19:38:07 EST 2003 says:
" I support Governor Ryan's nomination for Nobel Peace.
He is a brave man and, God willing, his actions will
lead the USA to more honest and genuine relations to the
world community. He followed his heart and logic in the
commutations. In such times of terror and fear, it is
uplifting to have a political leader show mercy and seek
justice regardless of reprimands from those around him.
May God Bless and Protect him, and may many more of our
politicians follow his lead. "
Supporter Kelly Kern-Miriani from St. Charles, Missouri
on Tue Jan 14 19:38:16 EST 2003 says:
" I am in awe of Governor Ryan's courage to stand up for
what is morally right. I admire him for following
through on something that has such strong opposition. He
has opened the gates - let's hope others will follow!
Thank you, Governor Ryan, for restoring my faith in
career "politicians". "
Supporter Donna Cisco from Warrensville Heights, Ohio USA on Tue Jan 14 20:15:38 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Boris Schön from Duisburg, Germany on Tue Jan
14 21:08:53 EST 2003 says:
" I am with the former Governor Ryan and I think he
should get the Nobel Peace Prize! Greetings from
Germany, Boris "
Supporter Shimon S. Gottschalk from Tallahassee,
Florida, USA on Tue Jan 14 21:19:53 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is a hero of peace and justice precisely
at a time that we need real heroes so desperately. "
Supporter Janis Turk from New Orleans, LA, USA on Tue
Jan 14 22:02:03 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan should be given the Nobel Peace Prize. I
thank him for using his life to save the lives of others
and to carry out justice. "
Supporter Jackie Millican from nocona texas usa on Tue
Jan 14 22:28:44 EST 2003 says:
" A real man at last! I am so very proud of you "
Supporter LEWIS BUTTERY from FALLS CHURCH, VA, USA on
Tue Jan 14 22:45:01 EST 2003 says:
" It is about time that a politician took a courageous
stand and admitted the obvious. The death penalty system
is seriously flawed and probably can never be fixed. "
Supporter Linda Urquizu from Lake Arrowhead, CA on Wed
Jan 15 00:09:00 EST 2003 says:
" What a courageous act! May other politicians do the
right thing and follow suit. However, we should not stop
at the death penalty. Law enforcement's misuse/abuse of
confidential informants is damaging the lives of
citizens charged with other alleged criminal activities.
"
58
Supporter Frank Kane from Acton, MA, USA on Wed Jan 15
00:30:55 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan is a compassionate man and is doing what any
sane person should do. You have many individuals on
death row whose cases were fraudulently brought, through
evidence tampering or defendant coercion or eyewitness
and DNA error. Gov. Ryan is right. "
Supporter Lardy/JONCHERY from VANVES FRANCE on Wed Jan
15 02:20:01 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Alexander Fladerer from Cologne, Germany on
Wed Jan 15 03:20:05 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Stefanie Schiering from Hamburg, Germany on
Wed Jan 15 04:32:44 EST 2003 says:
" I am in support of the nomination of Governor Ryan for
the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Markus Singer from Leipzig, Saxonia, Germany
on Wed Jan 15 05:00:16 EST 2003 says:
" Courageously, honorable, fair. There is still hope "
Supporter Jan Brasching from London, United Kingdom on
Wed Jan 15 05:41:17 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Olaf Tophoven from Krefeld, Germany on Wed Jan
15 06:37:28 EST 2003 says:
" A wise man with the power to go an unpopular way. olaf
tophoven olaf@tophoven.de "
Supporter Michael Zimmer-Mueller from 68165 Mannheim,
Germany on Wed Jan 15 06:40:39 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Charpentier-Harvey from (France) on Wed Jan 15
07:16:36 EST 2003 says:
Supporter j.stuart from london, England UK on Wed Jan 15
09:30:55 EST 2003 says:
" Gov Ryan could not please everyone, but he did what he
did to save more people from becoming victims. We feel
for those who have lost a loved one but killing the
wrong person does not make for justice. Remove a few
bricks from a wall it will eventually fall and have to
be examined. Hopefully this is what will happen to the
death penalty now. Gov Ryan deserves the Nobel Prize for
having the courage to stand against the very laws he was
given to support in the first place, because he could
see the d/p is an unjust conviction often "
Supporter Katherine Leahy from Cambridge, MA USA on Wed
Jan 15 09:36:19 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Roland Mross from Dietach, Upper Austria,
Austria on Wed Jan 15 10:46:36 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Joan Molloy from Rossendale, Lancashire,
England on Wed Jan 15 11:57:22 EST 2003 says:
59
Supporter Nic Edgar from Manchester Unite Kingdom on Wed
Jan 15 13:05:15 EST 2003 says:
" Congratulations for some middle of the road common
sense at last. All I would ask is why wait until the end
of your term? At least it shows good grace from a figure
in authority at last. All I would also suggest however,
is for him to remember the people in the background who
work away tirelessly - charity workers, people from the
'outside community' who care enough to wirte to the
inmates in a bid to keep them going. I hope you keep
campaigning afterwards.... "
Supporter enid edgar from manchester united Kingdom on
Wed Jan 15 13:08:04 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan you are a BRIGHT STAR shining in the
darkness and horror of Death Row I salute you "
Supporter richard daniel gorrow from dewy rose,georgia
united states of america on Wed Jan 15 13:36:48 EST 2003 says:
" thank GOD, a giant step into history. the right thing to do. "
Supporter Karin Manser from Calgary, Alberta, Canada on
Wed Jan 15 14:29:27 EST 2003 says:
" This was a truly historic and inspiring event. I don't
remember a politician making such a courageous and
humble move toward that which is selfless and just all
at the same time. I am inspired to believe again in the
power of humanity being used for the good of all, not
just the victims of circumstance. God Bless George Ryan."
Supporter Fernand R. Schlumpf from 8610 Uster
Switzerland on Wed Jan 15 16:47:58 EST 2003 says:
Supporter AJ Stevens from Orlando, FL on Wed Jan 15
17:16:39 EST 2003 says:
" Thankfully, there is one politician who studied the
evidence and, against the tide of ignorance, stands tall. "
Supporter Stephanie Ernst from Charleston, Illinois,
U.S. on Wed Jan 15 18:14:18 EST 2003 says:
" It's incredibly sad that so many people are so
vehemently critical of former Governor Ryan's decision
to commute the sentences of death row convicts and
pardon innocent inmates. What he did required immense
courage and strength of character. I find it ridiculous
that critics are accusing him of acting with political
motives. Ryan surely knew he would face widespread
opposition in this decision yet made the decision anyway
because he knew it was RIGHT. This is a man who once
supported the death penalty but who was open-minded and
honest enough to look at the facts objectively and and
go down a difficult path. Gov. Ryan, your actions, your
values, and your courage are admirable, and I hope the
general public all see that in time. "
Supporter Mary Kimura from Castro Valley, CA, USA on Wed
Jan 15 19:21:01 EST 2003 says:
60
Supporter Katie Fauvelle from Denver, Colorado, USA on
Wed Jan 15 19:21:38 EST 2003 says:
" I fully support Governor Ryan's actions regarding
commuting the sentences of Illinois death row inmates. I
feel that he has shown a tremendous amount of courage by
taking this action. I don't understand how those against
his actions seem to believe that it would have been
better to let even one innocent person die just to kill
those who are guilty. I believe that if Gov. Ryan was to
receive the Peace Prize that it would be a tremendous
example to the rest of the world that there are
politicians in the U.S. that truly believe in human
rights and are prepared to back their words up when required. "
Supporter Rachel S. Friedland from Orlando, FL, USA on
Wed Jan 15 19:40:03 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is an incredible Humanitarian! I support
him in his efforts to abolish the death penalty.
Governor Ryan you deserve the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Vincent Quinn from Barrie Ontario Canada on
Wed Jan 15 19:56:23 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Abigail Mutimer from London, England on Wed
Jan 15 20:48:23 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Tania Gilbert from Perth, Western Australia on
Wed Jan 15 21:58:32 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lynn Muollo from Leicester, UK on Thu Jan 16
00:01:36 EST 2003 says:
" A very brave man. He did what was right rather than
what the popular view was in the US. Let's hope it leads
to proper justice in the US system and a proper and
sensible debate on why the death penalty can never be
justified in a civilized society. "
Supporter Gerhard Klingel from Mannheim (Germany) on Thu
Jan 16 04:08:27 EST 2003 says:
" When you think of the fact that the USA could
definitely not join the European Community because of
the way they treat human rights (e.g. unlike all
countries of the former Warsaw Pact !!), every
opportunity must be grabbed to support the attempt of
abolishing capital punishment. "
Supporter Rev BJ Fox from Tacoma,.WA on Thu Jan 16
07:02:53 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Robert F Kerwin from Houston, Texas on Thu Jan
16 08:01:36 EST 2003 says:
" I applaud Governor Ryan's action to end capital
punishment in Illinois. A bold step for morality and
justice, a kin to those of John F Kennedy, Robert F
Kennedy and fellow Illinois Abraham Lincoln. God has
truly blessed him for such action. "
Supporter Elaine Holmes from Fort Collins, Colorado
U.S.A. on Thu Jan 16 09:32:14 EST 2003 says:
" I heartily support the idea of Governor Ryan being
recognized worldwide for his stance against inhumane punishment. "
61
Supporter Patricia Beres from Front Royal, Virginia, USA
on Thu Jan 16 10:13:39 EST 2003 says:
" This is peace put into action. Thank you Governor Ryan
for your courageous stand. "
Supporter Manü Geisler from Bielefeld, NRW, Germany on
Thu Jan 16 12:51:13 EST 2003 says:
" He is one of the Americans, who have a working brain,
and thinks, that this kind of punishment is bad. But
there is much to do in America, and in other countries,
and Mr. Ryan did a sign for humanity. "
Supporter Sean Ledwich from Canada on Thu Jan 16
14:29:46 EST 2003 says:
" I nominate and cast my vote for George Ryan to receive
the Nobel Peace Prize because he honestly and diligently
studied the death penalty system in Illinois and
concluded that there were deep flaws in terms of the
arbitrary sentencing and incorrect convictions. Whether
you agree with the death penalty or not, these
transgressions represented a significant human rights
issue. George Ryan concluded he must commute all
prisoners on death row because no action seemed imminent
after his departure from the Governors office which
would correct the situation. This act was not only
morally courageous (opposition to it is extreme) but it
sets a standard for leaders all over the world to reject
personal or political cost when considering the validity
of the death penalty. I believe he has opened the door
for more honesty and examination wider than ever before
and this will result in lives saved. And it is my
personal belief that the death penalty creates a culture
of death in a society - sends an unconscious message
that it's OK to kill if it's felt to be "justified".
Ryan has taken a huge step towards ending this cycle of
violence and bringing peace to the hearts of the angry and vengeful. "
Supporter Gary Rhine from Malibu CA, USA on Thu Jan 16
14:43:46 EST 2003 says:
" A politician with guts and morals together; rare indeed. "
Supporter Franz-Josef Marx from Dortmund, Germany on Thu
Jan 16 15:22:39 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Peter Otth from 3177 Laupen, Switzerland on
Thu Jan 16 15:32:12 EST 2003 says:
" In my eyes capital punishment is cruel and against the
human rights. It's also paradox that the USA demanding
of the rest of the world to be seen as the safeguard of
democratic and freedom is executing capital punishment:
that's for me and a lot of my friends a paradox. "
Supporter Donzallaz from Fribourg, Switzerland on Thu
Jan 16 15:58:55 EST 2003 says:
Supporter sujatha baliga from santa fe, new mexico, usa
on Thu Jan 16 17:09:33 EST 2003 says:
" This man should be lauded for his brave decision. The
time for national re-evaluation of our "evolving
standards of decency" has come! "
62
Supporter Jeff Parrott from Tampa, Florida, USA on Thu
Jan 16 17:18:14 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Esther Naomi Muganda from Geneva, Switzerland,
Europe on Thu Jan 16 17:24:55 EST 2003 says:
" Dear Governor, As I just turned off the tv after
watching the Oprah show, I just wanted to congratulate
you on one thing. Having the courage to do what is right
despite the harshness of it. People and media believed
that you did it for the glory and fame which is an
understandable belief. But when I heard you quoting Rev.
Desmond Tutu on the Oprah show, I realized that what you
are getting out of this is no glory nor fame. I just
want to congratulate you on your strength and courage to
do the right thing. Nelson Rohilala Mandela is my hero.
I admire him for his strength and courage. And what I
have witnessed today while watching you speak, is a
similar kind of strength and courage. "
Supporter Astrid Santana from Kennesaw, Georgia 30152 on
Thu Jan 16 17:40:30 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's blanket commutation in effect, does
what the death penalty was supposed to do - it puts a
higher value on human life. "
Supporter Terry Moore from Riverside CA USA on Thu Jan
16 18:55:33 EST 2003 says:
" I only wish more politicians had the guts that
Governor Ryan has! My sister was a homicide victim, yet
I still cannot understand how someone's execution will
do anything to "heal" or give us "closure." Life in
prison w/o parole is the ultimate punishment. WAY TO GO
GOVERNOR RYAN! "
Supporter Patricia Terry from Ridgeway,SC,USA on Thu Jan
16 20:44:47 EST 2003 says:
" this man is a man of great courage and insight...too
many faults in our so-called justice system...thank you
Gov. Ryan for having the courage and the wisdom for
doing what you did... "
Supporter Yvo from on Thu Jan 16 22:55:10 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Sondra Katz from Silver Spring, MD USA on Thu
Jan 16 23:05:04 EST 2003 says:
63
Supporter Yvonne Amery and Colin Lloyd Amery from
Manurewa, Auckland, New Zealand on Thu Jan 16 23:13:13
EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has used the force and power of his
office to be merciful and courageous for the good of
others who were condemned to a cruel and inhumane
punishment. The Governor reviewed the unjustness of past
executions and decided to commute all the Death Row
inmates' sentences, a humane act driven by
soul-searching deliberations and a desire to leave the
office in a final gesture of profound goodwill towards
those for whom society in general had condemned as not
worthy of life. His act of courage born of a desire for
true justice must have had a profound effect on those
condemned to die. Such courage, we think, is to
applauded at the highest level and it may be that the
award for the Nobel Peace Prize is appropriate. "
Supporter Janet Berger from Oakland California USA on
Fri Jan 17 00:45:17 EST 2003 says:
" Gov Ryan should run for President, Your speech was
fantastic, and well presented. You are so right about
the death penalty. "
Supporter Chris Merry from Amsterdam, the Netherlands on
Fri Jan 17 07:10:41 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Vilma D'Souza from Dartmouth, Nova Scotia,
Canada on Fri Jan 17 08:10:28 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has stood proud and tall and did what he
knew in his heart was the best decision he would take in
his life. I wish there were more Governors like him in
the US. God Bless Him and what he did on January 10th
and the day after and if that does not warrant the Nobel
Peace Prize, nothing else will. No better example of
peace and love in this world than the courageous stand
of Governor Ryan. I wish I could shake his hand in
person. "
Supporter Mark Hebard from Aptos, California, USA on Fri
Jan 17 09:13:59 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Eleanor Coleman from Paris, France on Fri Jan
17 09:18:37 EST 2003 says:
Supporter from on Fri Jan 17 11:17:33 EST 2003 says:
Supporter LaTonya Tart from Chicago,IL on Fri Jan 17
11:21:45 EST 2003 says:
" I am glad some one had the courage to stand up and
take action. Maybe others will follow by example. A life
for a life isn't Justice. "
Supporter Scott Perkins from Columbia, Missouri, USA on
Fri Jan 17 11:48:27 EST 2003 says:
64
Supporter Simon Owens from Bristol, United Kingdom on
Fri Jan 17 12:15:09 EST 2003 says:
" What marvelous news that Governor Ryan issued a
blanket commutation of all death sentences in Illinois.
I have read of the case for some months now and I think
that Gov. Ryan has made a courageous, but entirely
correct decision. I practice as a lawyer in the UK. I
can remember, in school debating contests, making
speeches in favor of the death penalty. There are some
crimes for which it is only human to feel the deepest
revulsion and hatred for the perpetrator. The terrorist
attacks on 11 September 2001 are a prime example.
However, one quickly learns that the death penalty meets
none of the requirements of criminal justice theory. It
does not deter individuals from committing murder.
Murder is rarely a crime committed in a rational,
well-thought-out manner. It is often committed in a
heated spur of the moment situation by individuals who,
whilst not satisfying the strict legal test of insanity,
cannot be regarded as being "sane" in any normal sense
of the word. It does not rehabilitate - killing a
murderer does not give him a second chance to prove
himself, and most individuals deserve a second chance.
Finally, it incapacitates - i.e. prevents the offender
committing the same crime again, but so does life
imprisonment. Capital punishment is nothing more than
state-sponsored revenge. No matter how strong the desire
for revenge and retribution, it is fundamentally wrong
for governments to kill in an act of vengeance. Added to
all of the above the risk of killing innocent
individuals, and I think that the case in favor of the
death penalty is fundamentally flawed. I understand that
relatives of victims of murderers who have had their
death sentences commuted are outraged. I can understand
their sentiments, but I would urge them to consider that
two wrongs most certainly do not make a right. They
should also consider whether a meaningless life locked
up in a prison cell, without any hope of parole, is in
fact a worse punishment than death. I think that it is.
I wish to express my sincere praise for Gov. Ryan and
the decision he has taken. May the other states follow
the lead set by Illinois and may Gov. Ryan's successor
and the Illinois House and Senate have the foresight to
take decisive steps to abolish the death penalty altogether. "
Supporter from on Fri Jan 17 12:17:37 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Dieter Räger from Ronnenberg, Germany on Fri
Jan 17 13:10:02 EST 2003 says:
" I admire Governor Ryan for his courage and heartily
support his nomination for the Nobel Peace Price "
Supporter Paul M Whalen from 617 NE 17 Way Fort
Lauderdale,Fl33304 on Fri Jan 17 16:05:58 EST 2003 says:
" Congratulations to ex-Gov. Ryan, too bad we don't have
a man of equal conscience in the White House "
Supporter Rahel Roland from Helsingborg, Sweden on Fri
Jan 17 17:20:53 EST 2003 says:
65
Supporter Rita Chodor from Elk Grove Village, Illinois,
USA on Fri Jan 17 17:30:05 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Mario Frymerman from Hollywood, florida on Fri
Jan 17 18:17:46 EST 2003 says:
" BRAVOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!! "
Supporter Dr. Everett Flanigan from Kankakee, Ilinois
USA on Fri Jan 17 19:10:47 EST 2003 says:
" This action, which required bravery will re-start the
debate on the fairness of the death penalty, and will
ultimately lead to the world re-thinking the
administration of such laws... "
Supporter Denis Devine from Berkeley, CA, USA on Fri Jan
17 19:45:52 EST 2003 says:
" I pray for the day when all of our politicians follow
Ryan's proud path towards true justice and concern for
doing the right thing. Sometimes the greatest wisdom
comes from the unlikeliest of sources. "
Supporter Martin Rosenthal from Boston, MA on Fri Jan 17
23:40:13 EST 2003 says:
" It's only a matter of when, not if, the USA joins the
"civilized" world's abandonment of the most inhumane,
unjustified, counterproductive, and arbitrary
punishment. Whenever it finally happens, Gov. Ryan's
courageous epiphany will be remembered as one of the
major milestones towards that great day. "
Supporter Shawn Redden from St. Louis, MO on Sat Jan 18
00:47:23 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Kelly Hughart from Farmersville, CA, USA on
Sat Jan 18 02:11:46 EST 2003 says:
" As someone who totally opposes the death penalty, I
support Gov. Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Terri Horton from London, UK on Sat Jan 18
04:54:24 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Toja Drees from Reinach BL, Switzerland on Sat
Jan 18 09:20:08 EST 2003 says:
" As the director of the largest Native American Prison
Pen-Pals website (and more) www.worldwidefriends.org and
the website www.justice4u.org I know of too many
wrongfully convicted women and men in prisons. I am so
grateful Governor Ryan gave all of them a strong voice
and showed to the world where we have to go. No more
executions, and real justice for all. Thank you Sir,
thank you so much! Respectfully Toja Drees "
Supporter J. McKean & A. Wiebe from Tiverton, Ontario
Canada on Sat Jan 18 11:34:32 EST 2003 says:
" Ryan does justice, has mercy ad walks humbly with his God. "
66
Supporter Gunvant Govindjee from Flekke, Fjaler, N-6968
Norway on Sat Jan 18 14:37:29 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you and congratulations to you Mr. Ryan on your
bold and laudable move. Now we must strongly urge Bush
to commute the unwarranted death sentence on an
estimated half million Iraqi civilians who are likely to
suffer death as a result of a US-led attack on that
country. "
Supporter Sibel Engin from Istanbul - TURKEY on Sat Jan
18 14:49:40 EST 2003 says:
" CONGRATULATIONS! I believe this will be the a big step
against the execution of death sentences in USA. We
abolished death sentence in Turkey recently. I'm a law
school student at the University of Istanbul. I support
the candidacy of governor Ryan for Nobel Peace Price..."
Supporter erin genheimer from Ashville, Ohio, USA on Sat
Jan 18 20:34:16 EST 2003 says:
" God bless, Governor Ryan for having the courage to do
the only right thing. "
Supporter Susan Greenough from Townsend MA USA on Sat
Jan 18 20:44:22 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Melody Parish from Aurora, Colorado - America
on Sat Jan 18 20:59:17 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan - You absolutely deserve the Prize. You
did the right thing. I know it was difficult. I also
recognize that it took great personal courage. You're
not perfect, you're not Superman, but you saved the
lives of innocent men. I know families of victims are
probably angry with you. But it is better to have given
guilty men life in prison than to execute an innocent
man. I'm proud of you. I've added you to my heroes list,
which includes Christopher Reeves and Jeffrey Wigand and
the whistleblower at Enron. You did the best you could
and no one can ask any more than that. "
Supporter Beverly Miller from Michigan City, IN USA on
Sat Jan 18 21:20:59 EST 2003 says:
" Wonderful!!! Praise be to Governor Ryan for commuting
Illinois Death Row. Wish you were President of the US
and could commute all Death Rows. This will be an
example for the other states that execute.......EXECUTE
JUSTICE...NOT PEOPLE!!! God's Blessings on you Mr. Ryan.:) "
Supporter Kenneth Eskins from Columbus, Ohio USA on Sat
Jan 18 22:13:22 EST 2003 says:
" Capital Punishment has always been wrong, because
sometimes just people become victims. I support your
actions and views. Thanks! "
Supporter Betty Buck from Culp Creek, OR. U.S.A. on Sun
Jan 19 02:09:03 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Josie Brinkman from Haaksbergen, The
Netherlands on Sun Jan 19 07:00:58 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Chiara Calzolari from Casalecchio di Reno
(Bologna) Italy on Sun Jan 19 09:59:49 EST 2003 says:
67
Supporter Manuela Picq from Miami, FL 33176 on Sun Jan
19 11:11:53 EST 2003 says:
" I have proufound admiration and respect for Governor
Ryan's act, and will express my feelings to my
representatives. "
Supporter Jeffrey Stark from Miami, FL 33176 on Sun Jan
19 11:12:18 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Caroline Cruz from Paris, Bievres, 91570 on
Sun Jan 19 11:12:56 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Joana Lavinas from Rio de Janeiro, Brasil on
Sun Jan 19 11:13:26 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Gary Lockwood from Kent, Ohio, U.S.A. on Sun
Jan 19 11:17:38 EST 2003 says:
" No more violence, it has to stop why not start in our
own backyard ? "
Supporter Susan Paylor from Monroe, Louisiana USA on Sun
Jan 19 12:55:20 EST 2003 says:
" I support Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Mina Khan from Canada on Sun Jan 19 13:37:57
EST 2003 says:
Supporter Pebbles Bush from Cleveland Heights, Ohio on
Sun Jan 19 19:09:45 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Mary R. Avanti from San Jose, California Santa
Clara Coutny on Sun Jan 19 23:30:48 EST 2003 says:
" God Bless Gov. Ryan. It takes courage to do what he
did. I honor him for standing up for what he believes
in. Mary R. Avanti "
Supporter Kevin Jensen from Toronto, Canada on Sun Jan
19 23:58:42 EST 2003 says:
" The future is dependent on forgiveness and hope. "
Supporter Mariano Giampietri from Flekke, Fjaler, Norway
on Mon Jan 20 04:57:10 EST 2003 says:
" The death penalty destroys not only lives, but turns
what should be a just legal system into mere revenge. It
should be abolished. "
Supporter Michele Hehn from New York City, New York,
U.S.A. on Mon Jan 20 07:23:20 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Chris Lugo from Nashville, TN USA on Mon Jan
20 10:17:08 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Corine Bennett from Horn Lake, MS USA on Mon
Jan 20 11:49:02 EST 2003 says:
68
Supporter Yosh Yamanaka from Venice, California, USA on
Mon Jan 20 12:13:23 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's courageous act of commuting so many
death sentences needs to be acknowledged and honored. A
nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize would send a strong
message that Supporters of the death penalty need to
rethink their values, especially in light of the obvious
and frequent mistakes in sentencing innocent victims to
death. "
Supporter Fabrice Guillot from Aubervilliers, FRANCE on
Mon Jan 20 13:05:34 EST 2003 says:
" It is high time we put an end to that barbary; thank
you Governor Ryan for taking such a great decision;
France supports you! "
Supporter destenay thierry from Nice France on Mon Jan
20 14:27:05 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Elaine Petrella from Bloomsbury, nj,usa on Mon
Jan 20 15:31:42 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lindsay Keating from San Marino CA, USA on Mon
Jan 20 15:53:20 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Florence Andrieu from Semeac, France on Mon
Jan 20 15:59:01 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Robert S. Lemons from Nashville TN on Mon Jan
20 18:38:00 EST 2003 says:
" The time is past for all legalized killing "
Supporter Jane Osborne from Sunnyvale, CA on Mon Jan 20
18:49:55 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Christopher Smith from Chicago, IL, USA on Mon
Jan 20 19:51:56 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Rebeca Sanchez-Burr from Charlottesville, VA,
USA on Mon Jan 20 20:12:39 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Claudia S. Brown from Missoula, MT, USA on Tue
Jan 21 00:41:46 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan has done an important and courageous service
to all of us by standing for compassion and human rights
when the atmosphere in our country is focused on retribution. "
Supporter Donatella FASSONE from ITALY on Tue Jan 21
01:29:30 EST 2003 says:
" True American democrats being so difficult to find,
the entire humanity has to support such an illuminated
person! In case it won't happen, all my congratulations
to Mr. Ryan. One of your world's sister "
Supporter Christa Haber from Munich, Bavaria, Germany on
Tue Jan 21 05:46:30 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Heiko Hauptstein from Munich, Bavaria, Germany
on Tue Jan 21 05:47:38 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Uwe Haber from Lünen, NRW, Germany on Tue Jan
21 05:54:36 EST 2003 says:
69
Supporter Inge Haber-Westerwell from Menden, NRW,
Germany on Tue Jan 21 05:56:53 EST 2003 says:
Supporter F. Michael Westerwell from Menden, NRW,
Germany on Tue Jan 21 05:57:18 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Deepak Shrestha from Pokhara,Nepal on Tue Jan
21 06:12:43 EST 2003 says:
" what do you get taking his/her life? Blood!!! but that
doesn't fill your belly and the crime won't see its
original state. But her/his soul will be free from the
Earth that's all! No revenge..... "
Supporter Deepak Shrestha from Pokhara,Nepal on Tue Jan
21 06:14:39 EST 2003 says:
" what do you get taking his/her life? Blood!!! but that
doesn't fill your belly and the crime won't see its
original state. But her/his soul will be free from the
Earth that's all! No revenge.....Best of luck! Ryan, you got it!!!! "
Supporter Emma Nattfogel from Flekke, Norway on Tue Jan
21 09:01:59 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Steven Balicer from Bronx, NY 10463 on Tue Jan
21 11:52:23 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Robert Branch from 526 west 26st. Suite 906 NY
NY 10001 on Tue Jan 21 12:51:17 EST 2003 says:
" Ryan has showed conviction and courage that has almost
disappeared from the American Political landscape. Bravo! "
Supporter Elizabeth Clemmons from Los Angeles, CA USA on
Tue Jan 21 13:56:01 EST 2003 says:
Supporter virginia glas from burlington public lib,iowa
on Tue Jan 21 15:21:28 EST 2003 says:
" yes Ryan deserves the Nobel peace prize "
Supporter Karen Park-Koenig from Appleton, WI USA on Tue
Jan 21 15:28:35 EST 2003 says:
" Ryan is a hero. "
Supporter Tara Barratt from Calgary AB Canada on Tue Jan
21 18:16:20 EST 2003 says:
" What a courage! There is still hope for America... "
Supporter Adam Goldberg from Orlando, Florida, United
States on Tue Jan 21 18:19:40 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Alex Varghese from Houston TX USA on Tue Jan
21 18:41:42 EST 2003 says:
" I hope more American Governors in death penalty states
follow Ryan's example and undertake similar action. He
is definitely to be commended and I support his
nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Judith W. Kay from Tacoma, WA, USA on Tue Jan
21 18:55:38 EST 2003 says:
70
Supporter Agnes Hitchcock from Detroit, Michigan on Tue
Jan 21 21:12:23 EST 2003 says:
" To commute the death sentences of prisoners took a
great deal of courage. I have never been comfortable
with the fact that government could take the life of a
person in my name. I applaud Gov. George Ryan and thank
him for this act of real courage. "
Supporter from on Tue Jan 21 21:13:14 EST 2003 says:
" A God-fearing person whose reward will come from the
almighty Creator. My belief is that George Ryan believes
in respecting God's Will. "
Supporter Reverend Ervin Greene from New York, NY on Tue
Jan 21 21:48:17 EST 2003 says:
" I would vote for Governor Ryan for President. He is a
man of integrity. "
Supporter judy Edwards greene from new york new york on
Tue Jan 21 21:59:41 EST 2003 says:
" Bravo, governor. A man of integrity. May God bless you. "
Supporter Marri Collom from Phoenix, AZ, USA on Tue Jan
21 23:12:36 EST 2003 says:
" We are," One Nation Under God". God's Law says "Thou
Shalt not Kill" Thank you Governor Ryan. "
Supporter THALASSA from greece on Wed Jan 22 05:37:53
EST 2003 says:
Supporter Indira Unnikrishnan from Pottstown, PA, USA on
Wed Jan 22 11:12:01 EST 2003 says:
" Yes, I do. I am happy he had the courage to do
something about the glaring injustice of capital
punishment. For a developed country like America, its
amazing that people are put to death by the state and so
many feel relief at the taking of the life of another !
I wait for the day when Death Penalty is abolished in this country. "
Supporter Dennis Dixon from Chicago, IL USA on Wed Jan
22 11:25:33 EST 2003 says:
" While there are certain people who might try to use
the corruption scandal against the presentation of the
prize; I would say that if Henry Kissinger can get the
prize after prolonging the Vietnam War for at least 5
years, George Ryan should be able to get
it--particularly after braving the Chicago media bias
against the clemency hearings and the so-called "victims rights" people. "
Supporter Jennifer Lohmann from Durham, NC USA on Wed
Jan 22 12:57:43 EST 2003 says:
" I was a resident of Chicago when George Ryan was
elected. At the time, I was disappointed. He was not my
choice for governor. Since his election, he has shown
more courage in his position as governor than any
national figure I can think of. Governor Ryan did the
moral thing, even though it cost him his political
future. Many politicians have faced the same evidence he
did and turned a blind eye. I am now proud to say that
George Ryan was my governor. "
71
Supporter Bernadette Colomine from Los Angeles
California, USA on Wed Jan 22 14:55:33 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Kay Hessman from Columbus, Ohio, USA on Wed
Jan 22 18:40:53 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Lila K Davis from Henderson, Nevada USA on Thu
Jan 23 01:33:30 EST 2003 says:
" I think Governor Ryan is a true man of courage. He
knew there would be people who would try to tear him
apart, but he did what he thought was right anyway. It
takes real strength to do the right thing in this day
and age. I was taught that two wrongs don't make a
right. I think he is a man of peace in a non-peaceful
world, therefore, I believe he deserves the Nobel Peace. Prize "
Supporter Andrej from Dobrepolje, Slovenia on Thu Jan 23
03:14:36 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Vilda Rosenblad from Lund, Sweden on Thu Jan
23 07:51:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Rose Pelling from London, England on Thu Jan
23 12:47:20 EST 2003 says:
" As someone with a vested interest in Gov Ryan's
decision I applaud his courage. The man I love and who I
will be marrying shortly was one of those the Governor
saved from death. We can now concentrate on proving his
innocence without the fear of death hanging over us. He
didn't ask for clemency saying it was an admission of
guilt and he wouldn't commit perjury by admitting to
something he didn't do, but I am so glad we will now
have time to clear his name. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. "
Supporter Eric C. Booth from Houston, TX, USA on Thu Jan
23 14:24:34 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Committeeperson. Moseh Dunn from Philadelphia,
PA USA on Thu Jan 23 14:28:27 EST 2003 says:
" Yes, Because he is doing a good job on stopping the
death penalty. If it was up to me I would ask him to run
for President of The United States. What we need to look
at is the way this country went down in a slum since
Bush take over, as President. Governor Ryan needs to be
nominated for the Presidency. Sincerely Committeeperson Moseh Dunn "
Supporter Kari Manlove from Tacoma, Washington, United
States on Thu Jan 23 14:38:34 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Linda Chiancone from Glen Allen, VA USA on Thu
Jan 23 20:42:27 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Licia Jaskunas from nashville TN on Thu Jan 23
22:05:09 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you for establishing a wonderful precedent Gov. Ryan! "
72
Supporter Raj Iyer from Cerritos, CA 90703 USA on Fri
Jan 24 05:35:05 EST 2003 says:
" Governor George Ryan's action reflects a statesman's
courageous last act. It is a wake up call to the nation.
A great contribution to the American justice system and
humanity. His act is not about 'The Death Penalty'. It
is rather about the principle of justice itself. I am
convinced history will record it as such. The function
of the justice system in practice in the state of
Illinois has deviated unacceptably with respect to the
principle of Justice. Governor's action represents a
long overdue bold jolt to the justice system - he has
done it without violating the underlying principle of
Justice. Let no innocent man be denied justice. If there
is an error committed, it must be in favor of assumption
of innocence. There is no denying the suffering of
victims' families. I believe the victims themselves
would support his decision - if it were possible to ask them. Raj Iyer "
Supporter Susan Smith-Scardina from Pasadena, MD USA on
Fri Jan 24 16:40:01 EST 2003 says:
" I can only hope that this has raised the awareness
level of the citizens of the United States of America,
and that other governors will follow in Governor Ryan's
footsteps regarding the issue of the death penalty. "
Supporter Adela Beckerman from Pompano Beach, FLORIDA
USA on Sat Jan 25 08:30:20 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Conny Hudgins from Moore, South Carolina, US
on Sat Jan 25 11:16:44 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan wishes to rework the structure of our
Government's policies concerning capital punishment and
supports getting capable lawyers for capital punishment
cases. I think that all states should follow Governor
Ryan's lead in this most important matter that involves
life and death of possible wrongly accused inmates and their families. "
Supporter Anna Rita Pani from Assemini (Cagliari), Italy
on Sat Jan 25 13:18:15 EST 2003 says:
" STOP AT THE CAPITAL PUNISHMENT! "
Supporter Lauretana Gorman,OP from Janesville,WI on Sat
Jan 25 14:44:04 EST 2003 says:
" I applaud the Governor's action. He is truly a man of
depth and intelligence. More importantly, he is a man of
principle who recognizes that peace and justice only
come about when individuals step forward and public ally
take a courageous stand for what is right. He is an example to us all. "
Supporter Rev. Mardie J. Chapman from New London,
Connecticut, USA on Sat Jan 25 15:33:28 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has taken a courageous step and set a shining example. "
Supporter Renny Golden, Professor of Criminal Justice
from Chicago, IL, USA on Sat Jan 25 16:26:10 EST 2003 says:
73
Supporter Richard Tudor from Columbus, Ohio, United
States on Sat Jan 25 20:34:49 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan exhibited a great deal of courage and
fairness in commuting the death sentences of the entire
Illinois Death Row population. The resolve he showed
merits consideration for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Suzanne LeBoeuf from Fairfield, CA USA on Sun
Jan 26 15:22:02 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has taken a huge risk in forcing the
country to question our entire justice system. To stand
up for justice in the face of a huge opposition who want
to keep the status quo, who do not have the courage to
force this country to face arguable its most powerful
"arm" of government, is worthy of wearing a badge of
honour, justice and peace that sets an example for the
world to follow. We need more like Governor Ryan, who
will do the right thing, who will follow his conscience
even if it is unpopular and makes people angry to probe
whether our country is on the right path. As the
California Associate JAILer-In-Chief of JAIL4Judges.org,
I am well aware of the huge denial of due process rights
and the unconstitutionality of the courts. The courts
have become business-based, and the jail industry
flourishes under the denial of due process. The courts
of this country are to serve the average, every day
person of average intelligence and not serve the
lawyers, judges, and other officers of the court by way
of boardroom functioning, rather than courtroom
functioning. Governor Ryan has sent the message loud and
clear for the world to know that such injustice will not
be tolerated in what is to be a free country! We must
bring the courts back to common law. The People the
courts are to serve must have fair access to justice and
have the ability to enforce that our constitution is
being practiced and followed in the courts. Gov. Ryan
exemplifies the heart and conscience of what America is
about; freedom, liberty, and justice, and he is a man of
courage that deserves our respect and recognition.
Please help JAIL4Judges.org work for Judicial
Accountability by reading the Judicial Accountability
Initiative Law (J.A.I.L.) as this is how the public can
amend the constitution by forming state grand juries,
with the public chosen by a lottery, to hold dishonest
judges accountable. This important amendment must be
supported in the face of Governor Ryan's speech and
findings in the courts of Illinois. These problems exist
in every state, and Governor Ryan has paved the way for
those of us wanting the courts to function properly.
Please help JAIL4Judges.org at www.JAIL4Judges.org.
Thank you, Governor Ryan, for opening the door to
justice being restored in our country. "
74
Supporter Monica J Bonner from Cincinnati OH USA on Sun
Jan 26 16:29:31 EST 2003 says:
" The courage that Governor Ryan has shown is so very
worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize! I pray, everyday that
people with power will get good sense-Gov. Ryan is an
answer to that prayer. I only hope that others in power
will follow his lead. And I certainly would love to see
Governor Ryan's name on the next Presidential ballot!
Governor Ryan is a hero and a true champion of the
people he was elected to serve. "
Supporter John Rohrs from New Haven, CT on Sun Jan 26
17:12:38 EST 2003 says:
" No person deserves the Peace Prize more. This was a
courageous and counter-cultural act. Bravo Gov. Ryan! "
Supporter Nancy Fitzgerald from Buda, TX U.S.A. on Sun
Jan 26 22:19:27 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Joanne Billingsley from England on Mon Jan 27
01:54:22 EST 2003 says:
" For once someone has spoken out against the death
penalty without regard for his own career. A true leader
in the rights of those less fortunate than himself who
deserves much respect for taking the courageous stand
that he did. May he go down in the history books as a
man to learn from and remember with pride. From now on
George Ryan will be a name significantly honoured for
his beliefs against the cruelty of capital punishment. "
Supporter Holger Wendt from Wald-Michelbach, Germany on
Mon Jan 27 03:45:57 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Martin Jaeggi from Zurich, Switzerland on Mon
Jan 27 10:12:49 EST 2003 says:
" Dear friends, I am lawyer practicing law in Zurich,
Switzerland. I mainly act as attorney in penal cases.
Zurich is, according to international ratings, one of
the safest cities in the world, although we are very
international and have many foreign residents here. The
canton fo Zurich - similar to a US-State- has abolished
death penalty in 1869, and never reinstalled it since.
The last execution took place in 1860. Our crime rate is
low and has been going down steadily over the years. So
this clearly indicates that there is no link whatsoever
between capital punishment and public security. If it
were so, the US-States which still practice it should be
much safer than we are. But the contrary is true: The
US-crime rates are manifold higher than ours. All of
Switzerland has abolished death penalty in 1942, and we
have been living with an ever decreasing rate of heavy
crime. US-citizens should learn to look to countries
with a high level of public security and low crime rates
to see how they did it. Saudi Arabia and other such
countries which still practice it don't seem very
commendable examples. I am sure that one day, if not
clemency, reason will prevail. Governor Ryan deserves
the Nobel Peace Prize! We were all very moved by what he
did. Many kind regards, and best wishes to you all. Keep
up the good work! Martin Jäggi, attorney at law, Zurich,
Switzerland. "
75
Supporter Gottfried K. Weitbrecht from Stuttgart,
Baden-Wuerttemberg, Germany on Mon Jan 27 10:56:29 EST
2003 says:
" If I consider that killing of human beings is
absolutely unacceptable, I can't kill a person nor i can
force a person to do so. "
Supporter Helen Hardman from St Antony's College Oxford,
England OX2 6JF on Mon Jan 27 13:58:58 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Alessandra Parvis from Italy on Mon Jan 27
16:04:48 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Maura Carew from 340 N. Wilson Ave. Morehead,
Ky 40351 USA on Mon Jan 27 18:35:38 EST 2003 says:
" I am an avid Supporter of human life, and I think
Governor Ryan has made a huge impact on the future of
our company, and for his efforts, and his change of
heart, I am forever thankful. "
Supporter alex, guellner from cologne,
nordrhein-westfalen,germany on Tue Jan 28 19:06:44 EST
2003 says:
" one step to the humanity "
Supporter Leah Burcat from Dover, Delaware USA on Tue
Jan 28 21:58:12 EST 2003 says:
" I think that Governor Ryan's actions show the dignity,
honour, and courageousness of which the Nobel Peace
Prize is based upon. He stood up to friends, foes,
critics, and constituents and made a decision that came
directly from his heart rather than playing the
political game. By commuting the death sentences of all
of the death row inmates in his state, Governor Ryan
showed that revenge is not the answer to horrible
crimes. The death penalty is immoral, heinous, and often
carried out with biases and Governor Ryan's actions give
us, as Americans, and all citizens of the world, hope
that this practice may one day (soon) be obsolete. "
Supporter Timo Moennich from Berlin, Germany on Wed Jan
29 06:31:29 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jenny from Marlow, Buckinghamshire, England on
Wed Jan 29 06:53:47 EST 2003 says:
" Thank you, Gov Ryan for your brave and humanitarian
stand. Texas please take note! "
Supporter Peter Gathje from Memphis, Tennessee USA on
Wed Jan 29 09:00:03 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan's courageous action should be endorsed
through awarding him the Nobel Peace Prize. His
commuting of these death sentences followed from his
recognition of the basic injustice of the application of
the death penalty. "
Supporter BARBARA JOHNSON from DETROIT, MICHIGAN on Wed
Jan 29 11:20:39 EST 2003 says:
" FINALLY SOMEONE REALIZED THEIR NAME WAS NOT "GOD" WHO
ARE WE TO PASS SO HARSH A JUDGEMENT "
76
Supporter K.T.V.N.T.C. from DETROIT, MICHIGAN on Wed Jan
29 11:23:20 EST 2003 says:
" THANK YOU FOR SAVING OUR FUTURE AND PAST BROTHERS AND
BLACK MEN "
Supporter Ben Garvey from Wheaton IL USA on Wed Jan 29
11:33:43 EST 2003 says:
" A conservative politician can do the most progressive
actions. "
Supporter Eric Michael Liddick from Bellwood, PA, USA on
Thu Jan 30 00:15:54 EST 2003 says:
" No one has committed a greater act of humanity than
Gov. Ryan. Thank you! "
Supporter Ahmad Rahman from Lanham, MD on Thu Jan 30
05:20:22 EST 2003 says:
" I cannot think of a better person than this man who
has risked his career to save innocent lives during
these times when a man gets 70 standing ovations giving
a speech rallying support to take many innocent lives. "
Supporter Kevin Moyer from Philadelphia, PA, US on Thu
Jan 30 07:18:42 EST 2003 says:
Supporter R. McNeill from Summerville, SC USA on Thu Jan
30 09:35:24 EST 2003 says:
" The death penalty is wrong. It is legal murder
sometimes of innocent people. Our courts are corrupt "
Supporter Dr. Sharon Heuschele from Toledo, Ohio, USA on
Thu Jan 30 14:03:15 EST 2003 says:
" I commend Gov. Ryan for his stand on the death
penalty. His courage in the face of dissent about the
issue in the USA is above courageous! Please nominate
him for the Nobel Peace prize!!! "
Supporter Dr. Sharon Heuschele from Toledo, Ohio, USA on
Thu Jan 30 14:03:15 EST 2003 says:
" I commend Gov. Ryan for his stand on the death
penalty. His courage in the face of dissent about the
issue in the USA is above courageous! Please nominate
him for the Nobel Peace prize!!! "
77
Supporter Janice Linda Gay from po 404, San Quentin
Village, CA. 94964 on Thu Jan 30 19:38:14 EST 2003 says:
" You brave and dear Man , Governor Ryan, I wanted to
personally thank you for your courageous act in doing
all that you have done to stop a faulty "Just us" legal
killings in America. Sir, my own husband has been in San
Quentin State prison, though all of aprox. 18 years, for
a "Cop Killing" he did not do. His last judge said in
court "your innocence evidence is Irrelevant Mr. Gay".
His original trial lawyer( crook) was eventually
disbarred for his own criminal conduct WHILE HE WAS
SUPPOSEDLY DEFENDING KENNY, DURING THE SAME TIME HE
HIMSELF WAS BEING INVESTIGATED FOR KILLING HIS OWN LAW
PARTNER!!! We both know first hand how corrupted the
death penalty can be, my husband was not able to attend
his father's funeral this past year, his mother has
given up,,,,,,and Kenny now has that evidence to clear
himself, but is STILL caught in a GIANT WEB of
legalities to try to free himself. The man who shot and
DID kill the officer is here also, and still brag's
about pumping all the shot's into the officer. The
wheels grinding on and on, has worn on Both our lives
here, I live in constant FEAR of anyone knowing that I
am not only married to a man in prison, but a man in
prison, and is supposedly have murdered a medal of valor
officer. At the last trial, with a jury that was
actually instructed not to listen or regard anything
about Innocence, with over 65 uniformed officers in
attendance each crucial day, and even the Chief of
police and his wife came in , causing a big stir (and
distraction!) on the most important day of trial,
---they WANT KENNY DEAD--- they DO NOT WANT ANY PROOF--THEY WANT HIM DEAD period! And they have done a good job
of keeping him on a slow track to the gas chamber here,
WHAT A NIGHTMARE!!! I also would and have lost work,
cannot be of much support, of not only myself but of my
dear weary husband. Thank you from the bottom to top of
my heart, and from Kenny too! My husband needs all the
serious support out there, so please please direct and
and all help you would know of to his attorney's ROBERT
BRYAN OF SAN FRANCISCO, OR LOS ANGELES PUBLIC DEFENDERS
OFFICE, ATTORNEY KENNETH LEZIN, OR THE SAN FRANCISCO
NEWEST GROUP OF SERIOUS ATTORNEY'S CALIFORNIA'S
APPELLATE PROJECT, THEY CAN PUT ANYONE IN CONTACT WITH
THE SMALL TEAM THAT IS UNITED HERE TO HELP SAVE KENNY'S
LIFE. ONCE AGAIN, THANK YOU ONCE AGAIN SIR, SINCERELY,
MRS. JANICE L. GAY PH# 415-456 9363 "
Supporter Fred Ridley Gamble, Jr. from Santa Barbara,
CA, USA on Thu Jan 30 23:28:00 EST 2003 says:
78
Supporter Patricia Wilde from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
on Fri Jan 31 11:56:24 EST 2003 says:
" In a world that lacks compassion and understanding, I
found Governor Ryan's actions a sign of hope. As a
survivor of a murder, and a long time Supporter of
Amnesty International, (I used to write on behalf of
Nelson Mandela, never thinking for a moment that one day
I would meet him), Governor Ryan's speech came in as a
close second to my joy to Nelson Mandela's release. I
cannot express my emotions over Governor Ryan's actions.
I support him completely, I admire his courage and
strength of character, but above all, his sense of
justice and compassion. I pray for the day when capital
punishment is abolished. For one night after Governor
Ryan's speech, I too slept well, and I hope that
Governor Ryan is continuing to sleep well, for he does
not have blood of the innocent on his hands. If he ever
needs my support, he has it, and I will continue my
fight for a just society, and for peace. Thank you
Governor Ryan, for being the spokesperson for so many,
and again, for being such a kind and compassionate man."
Supporter Connie Nash from Brevard, NC USA on Fri Jan 31
20:18:49 EST 2003 says:
" Human society has too much collective wisdom to
tolerate "an eye for an eye" as a way to solve problems.
"
Supporter Torsten Kathke from Munich, Germany on Sat Feb
1 15:06:41 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Celia F. McWee from Augusta, Ga. (USA) on Sat
Feb 1 16:56:56 EST 2003 says:
" The Death Penalty is not a deterrent. Life without
parole at least gives the inmate time to prove he's not
guilty if that is the case. "
Supporter sauvage from paris, france on Sun Feb 2
08:42:36 EST 2003 says:
" your decision is a hope for all the rest of the united states "
Supporter from on Sun Feb 2 12:25:54 EST 2003 says:
" Great move! But he will have to fight to get it from
Gov. Paul Patton (KY) for releasing convicted criminals
early, some of whom have already been re-arrested. "
Supporter Klaus Becker from
Fellbach,Baden-Württenberg,Ger,any on Sun Feb 2 16:14:54
EST 2003 says:
Supporter Suzy Ruder from Kankakee, IL on Sun Feb 2
18:57:54 EST 2003 says:
" The Nobel Peace Prize should be held by someone who
has performed an extraordinary feat....and Governor Ryan
has done so in his courageous actions on the death penalty "
Supporter Jim Miller from Lawrenceville, GA, USA on Tue
Feb 4 15:30:21 EST 2003 says:
" Kudos to Governor Ryan. "
79
Supporter Linda Babbitt from Sacramento, CA USA on Tue
Feb 4 17:20:35 EST 2003 says:
" Thanks for being brave enough to examine the death
penalty and do the right thing in the wake of so many
who think death to the offender will bring closure to
victims families. Your courage exemplifies the type of
behaviour deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize. You
deserve it! Congratulations! God Bless You! "
Supporter Mich•le BESSON-RADISSON from 69400 LIMAS FRANCE on Wed Feb 5 04:21:23 EST 2003 says:
" I do wish to support Governor Ryan's nomination for
the Nobel Peace Prize for his courageous action towards death penalty. "
Supporter Jeff BESSON from 69400 LIMAS - FRANCE on Wed
Feb 5 04:23:47 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Brooks Best from Kansas City, MO, USA on Wed
Feb 5 16:14:42 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan demonstrated unparalleled courage in
pursuit of peace and justice in this country. He is heroic. "
Supporter nikki from houston, tx, usa on Thu Feb 6
10:06:53 EST 2003 says:
"I think every state should banned the death penalty! -nikki "
Supporter David from Montoir de Bretagne, France on Thu
Feb 6 14:55:26 EST 2003 says:
" La peine de mort est une sentence sans retour. S'il y
a la mindre chance, même infime qu'il soit innocent,
alors c'est un crime. Un meurtre. Un retour en arrière
devrait toujours être possible. C'est un premier pas
mais les USA sont encore loin du compte au niveau des
droits de l'homme mais c'est bien. Je sais que les
français sont bons pour donner des conseils, je voudrais
bien dire qu'avec notre histoire nous avons un peu de
notre sagesse à nous offrir mais nous aussi on a été
long à la détende. Espérons que vous aussi vous
trouverez la vois de la sagesse. "
Supporter Anna Almqvist from Sweden /Norway on Thu Feb 6
15:37:42 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Pamela Lackey from Ozark, MO on Fri Feb 7
14:08:57 EST 2003 says:
" We ask the world to protect and respect human rights.
However, we show the world how we violate them with our
actions. Thank goodness that Mr. Ryan's courage and
conviction to up hold the constitution "justice for all"
prevailed. History will show his due respect in time. "
Supporter Pamela Mac Donald from Reading, Massachusetts
USA on Sat Feb 8 15:29:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter A B Stewart from Shropshire, England, UK on
Sat Feb 8 16:33:07 EST 2003 says:
" Gov Ryan is a very brave man. Would there were more
like him. Such actions will truly lead to peace. "
Supporter Sophie Mayoux from Paris, France on Sun Feb 9
13:16:15 EST 2003 says:
80
Supporter Anni from Essen / NRW / Germany on Mon Feb 10
07:31:17 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Sarah Sonon from Cincinnati, OH USA on Tue Feb
11 00:34:45 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jo Clayson from Endicott, NY, USA on Tue Feb
11 06:59:14 EST 2003 says:
Supporter George J. Ball from Thayer, Missouri, United
States of America on Tue Feb 11 10:02:49 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Araceli Esparza from Rockford, Illinois U.S of
America on Tue Feb 11 12:30:10 EST 2003 says:
" I believe that he deserves the NPP because he acted on
his beliefs and the believes of many humans: NOBODY but
GOD has the right to deprive any human being of the
right to live. "
Supporter Regina D. Jemison from Detroit, MI USA on Wed
Feb 12 11:25:06 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Denise A. Hawkins from Lathrup Village, MI,
USA on Wed Feb 12 13:42:54 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Kristina Atkinson from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
on Wed Feb 12 15:41:57 EST 2003 says:
" It is people like Governor Ryan who show that there is
still hope for the human race. "
Supporter Emilia Beskind from Washington D.C. on Wed Feb
12 20:44:38 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Patrik Laveryd from visby gotland sweden on
Thu Feb 13 05:58:59 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Judy Pearce from Devon United Kingdom on Fri
Feb 14 16:08:15 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ilya Gerner from Stony Brook, New York, USA on
Fri Feb 14 21:56:19 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Dan Brandon from Newburgh, IN, USA on Mon Feb
17 13:06:14 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Christine L. Smith from Howard, Colorado on
Tue Feb 18 00:48:48 EST 2003 says:
" We must end the barbaric evil of the death penalty in
Supporter Kelly A. Borish from Santa Cruz, California,
USA on Wed Feb 19 02:10:33 EST 2003 says:
" stop the death penalty! "
Supporter jennifer horat from on Wed Feb 19 16:19:36 EST
2003 says:
Supporter Aaron Carlos from Durham, NC, USA on Wed Feb
19 23:16:12 EST 2003 says:
" This is one of the most pressing international human
rights issues, and Governor Ryan's action has challenged
our country to move forward in facing the problems with
the death penalty. "
81
Supporter William J. Frame III from Bowie, Maryland on
Thu Feb 20 17:12:40 EST 2003 says:
" Eloquent. Truth. "
Supporter Teresa Smith from Auburn, Kansas, United
States of America on Fri Feb 21 20:02:27 EST 2003 says:
" What a powerful Leader. Gov. Ryan was open to the
truth about the death penalty, and had the courage to act upon it. "
Supporter Bobbie Thomas from Paris Texas USA on Sat Feb
22 00:51:06 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Deborah Armstrong from Toronto, Ontario,
Canada on Sat Feb 22 16:37:43 EST 2003 says:
" Kudos to Governor Ryan!!! "
Supporter Sprague Terplan from Sausalito, California,
USA on Sun Feb 23 16:50:07 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Staci Robinson from St. Albans, WV, United
States on Sun Feb 23 17:08:01 EST 2003 says:
" I was overcome with emotion when I heard about Gov.
Ryan's decision. I only wish there were more brave
leaders like this man who realize the injustice of the
death penalty and are not afraid to take actions to end
it. Thank you, Governor Ryan. "
Supporter Melissa S White from London,Ohio,United States
on Sun Feb 23 21:59:02 EST 2003 says:
" I feel Governor Ryan deserves the Nobel Peace Prize.He
showed great courage and compassion in what he did to
assure a wrong was righted. "
Supporter Madelein McCormick from Lancaster, Ca 93535 on
Sun Feb 23 22:36:40 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Angela Blas from Everett, Washington, USA on
Mon Feb 24 17:01:32 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan looked beyond his own political career
and did was what morally right. "
Supporter Anthony Tyler from Tampa, FL- USA on Tue Feb
25 01:44:56 EST 2003 says:
" I support George Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter karen Trainer from on Wed Feb 26 08:11:47 EST
2003 says:
Supporter Karen Trainer from Traverse City,Michigan,
Grand Traverse Cty. on Wed Feb 26 08:20:40 EST 2003 says:
" We desperately need bravery in the face of great
injustice. Gov.Ryan had the oportunity to act and he did. "
Supporter Stéphanie NEUEN from Luxembourg city,
Luxembourg on Thu Feb 27 04:38:00 EST 2003 says:
Supporter WHITNEY from SARASOTA FL on Thu Feb 27
11:50:02 EST 2003 says:
82
Supporter Roxanne Eberle from Seattle, Washington,
United States on Thu Feb 27 15:05:40 EST 2003 says:
" I applaud Govenor Ryan's committment to the United
States abiding by International Law in this issue. "
Supporter Elena Inderfurth from Willich, Germany on Fri
Feb 28 04:19:50 EST 2003 says:
Supporter jane dejovine from placentia, california usa
on Fri Feb 28 15:37:09 EST 2003 says:
" The death penalty allows society to kill someone who
has been convicted of killing. Surely we can do better
than resort to the very same violence that brought a
person to the attention of the court. "
Supporter Melissa Landry from Nashville, TN USA on Fri
Feb 28 15:56:20 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Karen Chase from King of Prussia, Pa, USA on
Fri Feb 28 16:41:31 EST 2003 says:
" I commend Governor Ryan on his courage and doing the
right thing. We must move towards peace and away from
violence. We must all pray for the abolition of the
death penalty and the right for life and peace for all."
Supporter Dan from Swarthmore, PA, USA on Fri Feb 28
18:40:37 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Michaela Belter from Bensheim,Hessen,Germany
on Sat Mar 1 08:38:36 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Eugenie Gaspard-Seeber from D-67487 St.
Martin, Germany on Sat Mar 1 17:14:09 EST 2003 says:
Supporter David L. Oetjen from The Villages, FLorida on
Sun Mar 2 18:29:05 EST 2003 says:
" Imagine how many persons have wrongfully been executed
in the US over the course of history? It makes me sich
to think of it. We know that law enforcement often has
(and continue to)manufacture evidence and testimony to
convict. We have killed more innocent Americans under
our laws than were killed by the terrorist attack on
9/ll. We should be more concerned, because we condone
it! We could prevent such miscariage. "
Supporter Theresa Soto from New Haven, CT USA on Mon Mar
3 15:39:30 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Mechthild Mosbach-Hacker from Heidelberg,
Germany on Mon Mar 3 16:37:25 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Konrad Mallison from Ladenburg, Germany on Mon
Mar 3 16:42:01 EST 2003 says:
" I hope, my vote will bring Gov.Ryan the Nobel Peace Prize! "
83
Supporter Dittrich René from Berlin, Germany on Tue Mar
4 09:20:37 EST 2003 says:
" An executed murder dont help the victims of tomorrow,
but a killer in the hands of doctors give hope to find
the reasons for his doing, and help to prevent the next
violent-crime. The society forms the killer. And when we
want to save the population, our families and ourself in
the future, so have we to learn to understand the origin
of violent and murder. To do serious research on in
isolated clinics arrested killers and other prisoners is
a hopeful way. René Dittrich Berlin, Germany "
Supporter Jessica Osmond from Los Angeles, California,
US on Wed Mar 5 00:11:42 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is a hero and should be recognized as
such. It took incredible courage to do what he did,
particularly in the current political climate. "
Supporter Elizabeth Meyer from Quincy, Illinois, USA on
Thu Mar 6 11:39:02 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Christina Baier from Stuttgart, Germany on Thu
Mar 6 12:26:19 EST 2003 says:
Supporter teri roberts from richards, tx. 77873 on Thu
Mar 6 13:50:57 EST 2003 says:
" i think he did a wonderful thing!!! Only God gave
life-only God can take it!! "
Supporter Hans Fechner from Frankfurt am Main, Germany
on Thu Mar 6 16:53:21 EST 2003 says:
" He put humanity before political gain. I support to
nominate Mr. Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Houssin Danane from Amsterdam, Netherlands on
Fri Mar 7 11:07:58 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Robert Zajac from Chicago, Illinois, USA on
Fri Mar 7 16:54:03 EST 2003 says:
" I never in a million years thought I'd be proud of a
high ranking politician. He represented our State well
when he made these decisions to expose the issues like
torture and witheld evidence and how they lead to the
Death Penalty. History will show how this Governor was
ahead of his time.. We are beginning to think less
ideologically and more geographically. Someone just
doing what is right is so rare these days.. and he's our
guy. "
Supporter Willi Spieler from 82299 Türkenfeld, Germany
on Sat Mar 8 04:18:15 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Rev. Mike Wright-Chapman from Arlington, Texas
USA on Sat Mar 8 23:18:06 EST 2003 says:
84
Supporter H. H. Harrington from Grove City, Ohio USA on
Sun Mar 9 18:16:52 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's bravery, considering his original
stance on Capital Punishment, to be willing to
objectively weigh the evidence before him and make a
courageous decision to act on behalf of fairness and
justice, in the face of strong criticism, demonstrates
the stature of a man quite worthy of this recognition. "
Supporter Erin Genheimer from Ashville OH USA on Sun Mar
9 18:40:48 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is so very deserving of the Nobel Peace
Prize...a definate leader and hopefully the beginning of
the changes that are so desperately needed. "
Supporter Janet Ericson from tempe, Az United States on
Sun Mar 9 19:21:22 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Nancy J
Mar 9
" Gov. Ryan showed
the flawed system
this
Hirsch from Columbus, OH USA on Sun
21:07:05 EST 2003 says:
unusual courage when he stood against
of capital punishment and said that
just cannot continue. "
Supporter Robin Jeffers from Shorewood, Wisconsin on Sun
Mar 9 21:52:23 EST 2003 says:
" I am in full agreement with Governor Ryan. With Texas'
300th execution since 1982 coming up possibly later in
the month, this is the right time to oppose the unjust
laws facing our country. "
Supporter Tobias Mayr from D-53129 Bonn, Germany on Mon
Mar 10 16:29:36 EST 2003 says:
" There has to be a sign against all Supporters of
capital punishment that they are wrong and that they
belong to a minority! "
Supporter Else Fichter from D-54292 Trier,
Rheinland-Pfalz, Germany on Mon Mar 10 16:31:53 EST 2003 says:
" To kill somebody is not a thing God asked us for!
There will never be a reason for to take someone's life! "
Supporter M S Meyers from Upland CA USA on Mon Mar 10
18:23:58 EST 2003 says:
" It is courageous to speak out against injustice. It is
much easier simply to follow the status quo. When
governor Ryan understood the injustices and
ramifications of the continuation of the death penalty,
he took action. That a difference for hundreds of
prisoners on death row through out the United States,
many of whom are innocent. He set an example for other
governors and national leaders to follow. "
Supporter Fred and Debbie Anderson from McDonough, New
York on Tue Mar 11 15:39:00 EST 2003 says:
" Never did we think that we would have a Republican for
a hero, but Governor Ryan is a hero to both of us. Every
governor in the remaining 37 states should follow his example. "
Supporter bernd becker from stuttgart,
baden-württemberg, germany on Wed Mar 12 08:16:30 EST
2003 says:
85
Supporter lisa pierce from Lansing, mi, United States on
Wed Mar 12 12:26:59 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Ms. G. Abrams from Massachusetts on Thu Mar 13
03:29:47 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has shown us all what courage and
conscience really are, and what they can achieve for humanity. "
Supporter Robert J. Billimack from Woodstock, Illinois,
U.S.A. on Thu Mar 13 14:39:17 EST 2003 says:
" I applaud George Ryan for recognizing that a society
can be judged by how it treats its least fortunate
members. Ryan's blanket commutation of the death
sentence in Illinois was a courageous move, and secures
a proud place in history for a governor otherwise beset
by a myriad of problems. District attorneys, often
deeply involved in political career building, are not
God and certainly aren't infallible when it comes to
guilt vs. innocence and life vs. death. "
Supporter Robert W. Davis, Jr. from Tupelo, Mississippi,
USA on Fri Mar 14 11:31:50 EST 2003 says:
" I would like to add my voice to those supporting Gov.
Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. His courage and wisdom inspire us all. "
Supporter Edward Fletcher from Atlanta, Georgia, USA on
Fri Mar 14 13:37:54 EST 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan's courage and steadfast committment to
justice is rare in a 20th Century American politician.
The movement that was spawned by his original action has
spread across the United States, saving countless
numbers of lives. Gov. Ryan certainly deserves the
Prize; he will long be remembered as an American hero. "
Supporter Thomas-Eric John from Hamburg, Hamburg,
Germany on Fri Mar 14 14:00:37 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Marc Severin from Copenhagen, Denmark on Fri
Mar 14 14:11:08 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Christiane Dietz-Danane from Amsterdam, The
Netherlands on Sat Mar 15 18:15:45 EST 2003 says:
" There are unfortunatly not many governors of killing
states, that are that brave and care about their
citizens. The next step, I hope he does is abolishing
the Death Penalty in Illinois and make it a state of the
modern and civilist world. "
Supporter James Pugliese from New Port Richey, FL USA on
Sat Mar 15 22:46:02 EST 2003 says:
86
Supporter Mel Sweet from Bristol England on Tue Mar 18
09:19:29 EST 2003 says:
" How can you teach society it's wrong to kill by
killing? Your not just punishing the individual you are
punishing the whole family. Capital punishnent is
pre-meditated murder. Innnocent people die. Statistics
have proved that it is not a deterrent. More money
should be spent on rehabilitation or prevention of
crimes, not to kill people. The system disciminates
against the disabled and underprivalidged and is racist.
People with capital(money)have a better chance of a fair
hearing than people without. IT WILL NOT BRING THE
VICTIM BACK. I am a member of Lifelines and Amnesty
international and support and befriend people on death row "
Supporter David Herring from Oxford, Oxfordshire,
England on Tue Mar 18 10:53:05 EST 2003 says:
" I do not believe in the Death Penalty, but do believe
that if it is done, it should be done as quickly as
possible. I have supported a Death Row prisoner for
several years, and I think it is inhumane that he has
had the sentence of death hanging over him, with his
full knowledge, for 18 years: you would not do this to
an animal! However, I strongly disagree with the Death
Penalty; there is no future for any of us in "..an eye
for an eye.." Forgiveness has always been the only hope
for our human race which will always be capable of
hurting and killing each other. Christ came to show a
better way; when the law is only regarded literally, it
becomes "an ass", and a dead "ass" at that. As the
letter of James in the Bible states, "... mercy triumphs
over judgement.." (James 2:13). Without mercy there is
no hope for any of us, but the just, fair and merciful
application of the law brings future hope. My friend is
a wonderful artist, and many people have reason to be
grateful that he is still alive, and is a Christian
believer who blesses us with his optimistic and
inspiring letters. The maxim "Everyone deserves a second
chance" is surely one of hope and mercy. I believe that
the only circumstance under which a murderer should be
killed, might be if he is loose and intent on continuing
his killing; this must obviously be prevented. There are
many people to whom the Death Penalty has been applied,
who were innocent, and this is another reason why it
should be abolished as soon as possible. I thank God for
Governor Ryan and his actions, and support his
nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Aisling Murray from Derry City, BT48 0QJ, N.
Ireland on Tue Mar 18 14:25:21 EST 2003 says:
" You are wonderful to have the courage to go against
the system. 'Whatsoever you do to the least of my
brothers that you do unto me'. Those on Death Row are
surely amongst the 'least' of our society. How important
that they have someone like you to speak for them. I salute you. "
Supporter Barbara Moseley Harris from Market Drayton,
U.K. on Wed Mar 19 08:42:49 EST 2003 says:
87
Supporter lynda hawkey from cornwall, unitedkingdom on
Wed Mar 19 16:02:21 EST 2003 says:
" well done governor ryan, youve got my support all the way xxx "
Supporter Lesley Baker from England on Wed Mar 19
17:11:34 EST 2003 says:
" Gov Ryan has taken a giant step for those who serve
life on death rows aroound the world, his views have
brought the whole subject of the death sentence being
debated across not only the USA but to the rest of the
world. Who knows this may be the first steps to the
abolusion of this barbaric act worldwide, Please God. "
Supporter Isabell Buttron from Vienna, Austria, Europe
on Thu Mar 20 04:03:56 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jill Wyman from Bournemouth, Dorset, England
on Thu Mar 20 06:20:48 EST 2003 says:
" Let's hope that where he leads others will follow and quickly! "
Supporter Amanda Franck from Westmont, NJ USA on Thu Mar
20 13:25:00 EST 2003 says:
" i think your super cool....im a party gurl!!! "
Supporter Fiona Penny from Folkestone, Kent, United
Kingdom on Thu Mar 20 15:47:23 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Melissa Barker from Gaithersburg, Maryland USA
on Fri Mar 21 12:07:01 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Cassandra Capobianco from Gainesville, Florida
on Fri Mar 21 19:05:16 EST 2003 says:
Supporter WENZEL, Prof.Dr.Klaus-Werner from
Terrassenstr. 48, 14129 Berlin, Germany on Sat Mar 22
05:26:27 EST 2003 says:
" The whole civilized world does not kill people by law
(alwahr hiting some inno-cents) - except the USA. They
are on one level with communist China! "
Supporter Astrid ROESTEL from
Berlin, Germany on Sat Mar 22
" Gov. Ryan is shedding a good
humanity he really earns the
Terrassenstr. 48, 14129
05:31:41 EST 2003 says:
light on the USA. For his
Nobel Price for Peace "
Supporter Tiffany Mccloud from Indianapolis,Indiana on
Sun Mar 23 15:25:07 EST 2003 says:
" I believe that the death penalty should be illegal. I
dont think it is right to take someones life, and it
does not make the family of the victim feel any better
because their loved one did not come back to them. I
think the death penalty causes more families pain and
suffering. "
Supporter Kyle from Granite city on Mon Mar 24 21:21:00
EST 2003 says:
" George H Ryan is a coward and a criminal. He should be
the one on death row. "
88
Supporter Thomas Fassbender from Giessen, Germany on Tue
Mar 25 11:11:35 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Jan Knoll from Rodenbach, Hessen, Germany on
Tue Mar 25 14:20:35 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Tabea from Bremen,Bremen,Germany on Tue Mar 25
14:56:24 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Tyler Vaughan from Olathe, KS, USA on Wed Mar
26 22:51:18 EST 2003 says:
" i want him to get the nobel peace prize, because he's cool yo! "
Supporter Jim Kofaux from Amarillo, TX, USA on Thu Mar
27 21:19:22 EST 2003 says:
" Yeah!!! Well done Governor, keep the murderers alive,
we'll just support them for the rest of our lives. "
Supporter rah Frith from Leeds, United Kingdom on Fri
Mar 28 05:36:35 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Salzmann Ursula from Watt-Regensdorf / Zürich
/ Switzerland on Fri Mar 28 13:38:45 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Christine Short from Nottingham, UK on Sat Mar
29 12:37:33 EST 2003 says:
" Having visited the Polunsky Unit - my first visit to
death row - I am even more convinced that capital
punishment is absolutely wrong! "
Supporter Justine Dymond from Belchertown, MA, USA on
Sat Mar 29 19:47:25 EST 2003 says:
" I support Gov. Ryan's nomination for a Nobel Peace
Prize because he dared to declare a moratorium against
the death penalty in Illinois against the pressure of
the Republican Party's usual stance on the issue. He
courageously stood for what his conscience told him was
right, rather than what party politics advocated. "
Supporter Giorgio Nobili from Milano - Italia on Sun Mar
30 11:33:53 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Marsha Thomas from San Antonio,Tx, US on Sun
Mar 30 12:39:31 EST 2003 says:
Supporter anita prinz from Freiburg, Germany on Sun Mar
30 13:10:10 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Chardon Michèle from CH -8304 Wallisellen on
Mon Mar 31 01:53:09 EST 2003 says:
Supporter Dan from New York, Ny, USA on Mon Mar 31
16:39:56 EST 2003 says:
" the deathy penalty is an inhumane crime and should be abolished "
Supporter Jessica Graziano from Boulder, Colorado USA on
Tue Apr 1 16:33:45 EST 2003 says:
89
Supporter Patricia Williams from Elk Grove, CA. U.S.A.
on Tue Apr 1 17:31:27 EST 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan made a courageous stand in the interest
of justice and human rights. He deserves recognition. "
Supporter Jane Mace from London, England on Tue Apr 1
17:47:22 EST 2003 says:
" One of the bravest personal decisions I have ever seen
anyone make. "
Supporter Cynthia L. Campbell from Cincinnati,Ohio
Hamilton on Wed Apr 2 16:32:32 EST 2003 says:
" I believe that two don’t make it right, if that was
the answer, why are so many people being puy to death?
It doesn’t solve anything it just makes matters worse
for you & me. I as well as others don’t believe in
capital punishment. I believe what the Governor has said
should open a lot of peoples eye’s to see that he is
right. TWO WRONGS DON`T MAKE IT RIGHT..... "
Supporter Matthias Schroeter from Wolfen, Germany on Sat
Apr 5 16:03:54 EST 2003 says:
Supporter cASS from New Jersey on Thu Apr 10 08:23:57
EDT 2003 says:
" I think capital punishment should be banned it is ridicules "
Supporter Matt Atkinson, MSW from Oklahoma City, OK on
Fri Apr 11 09:44:00 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Mars from Nowhere on Fri Apr 11 15:24:41 EDT
2003 says:
Supporter Ralf from Munich, Germany on Fri Apr 11
23:10:22 EDT 2003 says:
" I have read Governor Ryan's speech, and I do think
that at a time when the United States is doubted by many
all over the world, Governor Ryan stands as a shining
example of all the things that are good about America among them fairness towards the weak and a wilingness to
let justice prevail over revenge. "
Supporter Lauraine Devine from Carver, MA, USA on Fri
Apr 11 23:22:54 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is the kind of person for whom the Nobel
Peace Prize was intended. "
Supporter Howard Brown from Wickford, RI USA on Sat Apr
12 08:14:50 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Susanne Burow from Munich Germany on Mon Apr
14 02:35:59 EDT 2003 says:
" I support Governor Ryan for the Nobel peace prize:
hopefully he gets that prize. "
90
Supporter Sarah Marsh from Leeds, UK on Wed Apr 16
12:09:55 EDT 2003 says:
" At last! Someone who is prepared to be brave and not
behave like a sheep! All the campaigning in the world
can only go so far, it takes someone on the inside to
stand up and say that this punishment is inhumane! I
support Governor Ryan wholeheartedly. I just hope that
other Governors will take note and think twice about
capital punishment. "
Supporter Paula Alejandre Teijeiro from Ares(A
Coruña)GALICIA,(Spanish State) on Wed Apr 16 19:42:50
EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Melissa Romero from Avon, CT USA on Sun Apr 20
20:03:52 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Kacey Bennett from Miami, FL, US on Mon Apr 21
19:22:57 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Thomas Neuner from 90537 Feucht, Germany on
Tue Apr 22 06:43:03 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter from on Tue Apr 22 11:51:54 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter jr lopez from gainesville, fla on Tue Apr 22
13:06:23 EDT 2003 says:
" I congratulate a politician with courage and
conviction to admit that we are wrong. The death of a
single inocent is too much to acept. Keep up the good
work. "
Supporter Leia Pate-Terry from Las Vegas NV USA on Wed
Apr 23 15:28:44 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter FREDIL HUMBURGGER from CHESTER ALABAMA on Thu
Apr 24 12:46:35 EDT 2003 says:
" GO GEORGE I AGREE WITH YOU AND I THINK THOSE BASTERS
WHO LIKE CAPITLA PUNISH SHOULD ROT IN HELL!!! "
Supporter Antonietta Pace from New York, New York, USA
on Wed Apr 30 17:33:34 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Erica K. from New Orleans on Thu May 1
07:07:18 EDT 2003 says:
" I volunteer with the MOratorium Campaign and am A
student at Loyola University, recently I saw George Ryan
Speak and got to met him after ward it was an amazing
and inspirational evening "
Supporter Deborah H. Weinstein from St. Louis, MO, USA
on Fri May 2 13:16:35 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Lene Gabrielsen from Stavanger, Norway on Sun
May 4 08:25:43 EDT 2003 says:
" I believe that Governor Ryen is a worthy candidate of
the Nobel Peach Prize. I hope he continues to work
against death penalty which is a cruel and inhumane
punishment! "
91
Supporter Bren Satterwhite from Orlando, FL, USA on Sun
May 4 09:55:06 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's Commutation Speech is the most
incredible thing I have read in years. His determination
to seek justice in the face of ridicule humbles me. I
offer my full and uncompromised support to his
nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize. Bren Satterwhite "
Supporter Stacey Adams from Houston, Tx USA on Sun May 4
17:43:11 EDT 2003 says:
" I DO SUPPORT GOVERNOR GEORGE H RYAN IN THE NOBEL PEACE PRIZE. "
Supporter Rose and Patrick Murphy from Dallas, Texas USA
on Mon May 5 01:38:40 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan, you have done God's work. This is truly
a man of peace and love. May God Bless You abundantly
for your mercy. Please pray for all death row inmates.
And PLEASE don't forget those whose trial is yet to
occur where the state is seeking their death. "
Supporter Alison Philbey from Middlesbrough, United
Kingdom on Mon May 5 16:34:38 EDT 2003 says:
" I wholeheartedly support the nomination of Governor
Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. I congratulate him for
his courage in speaking out against the Death Penalty
which is no more and no less than legalised murder. "
Supporter gwynne mcelveen from u.k on Tue May 6 13:52:51
EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Logan Turner from Lincoln, Nebraska, USA on
Wed May 7 16:27:56 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Michelle Combs from London, KY, USA on Fri May
9 21:20:07 EDT 2003 says:
" Let this be one step closer to abandoning America's
barbaric, hypocritical belief that it is not okay to
kill someone, but it is okay to kill them for doing so.
"
Supporter Logan Robertson from Chicago, Illinios, United
States of America on Sun May 11 23:23:16 EDT 2003 says:
" I am honored to have had this George as our governor."
Supporter Mikaela Robertson from Madison, WI, USA on Sun
May 11 23:28:34 EDT 2003 says:" thanks "
Supporter Nicholas Kitto from Sussex, England on Mon May
12 03:39:48 EDT 2003 says:
" To err is human, to forgive divine. To admit error
takes a great deal of courage. The sooner other
Governors follow Governor Ryans example, the better for all of us. "
Supporter Paul Tighe from Guilderland, NY USA on Thu May
15 08:02:32 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Kristin Froehlich from Wilmington, DE, USA on
Thu May 15 15:32:00 EDT 2003 says:
" I support Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. He
is a courageous man who took a difficult stand for peace
and made a real difference. I am the sister of a murder
victim and I don't want the state to kill in my name! "
92
Supporter Helen Henderson from Derby, Derbyshire, UK on
Fri May 16 07:19:29 EDT 2003 says:
" Well done it is not often that someone has the courage
of their convictions to this extent! "
Supporter George Reid from North Haven, CT USA on Sun
May 18 20:10:34 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan's courage is outstanding and wonderful.
He obviously did the right thing. It is just so sad that
our political system is so pandering to the evil and
baseness in the masses that it takes so much courage
just to simply do the right thing. "
Supporter maureen meehan from am kielortplatz 5 22850
norderstedt germany on Tue May 20 10:09:10 EDT 2003
says:
Supporter James Taylor from Garden City, Kansas on Wed
May 21 23:39:51 EDT 2003 says:
" As a man who was once convicted of murder I know the
American "justice" system well. I commend Governor Ryan
for having more guts than any other politician in recent
American history despite all the sniveling and
vote-chasing by his opposition. History will award him
much more than a Nobel Prize, but that's a good start!
I've often wondered why nobody ever stopped to consider
the mother of the second victim. Governor Ryan did so,
to the rest of America's shame. He deserves the Nobel
Prize more than anyone in our time. "
Supporter Uwe Hirth-Schmidt from Berlin, Germany on Fri
May 23 10:30:40 EDT 2003 says:
" NOBDY has the right to take lives. "
Supporter Louis LaHue from Boynton Beach, Florida , USA
on Fri May 23 19:05:20 EDT 2003 says:
" I strongly believe that Gov Ryan .....made a big
statement ............ I strongly believe it is cheaper
and more humane to give them life without parole............... "
Supporter Nancy Engelsberg from Rome, Italy on Fri May
23 19:11:19 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Lisa Mullaney from San Diego, California, USA
on Fri May 23 21:24:57 EDT 2003 says:
" Selfless, humble, compassionate action taken while the
welfare of other lives were still in his hands. Thank
God for people like Gov. George Ryan! "
Supporter Roger BOUR from Montgeron F-91239 (France) on
Sun May 25 15:17:14 EDT 2003 says:
" I support the action for proposing Governor George H.
Ryan to win the Nobel Peace Prize, in return for his
action against the death penalty "
Supporter Shelley Reimer from Ft Wayne IN U.S. on Tue
May 27 20:32:53 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Celia Wesloh from St. Louis, MO USA on Wed May
28 12:31:57 EDT 2003 says:
93
Supporter Lina Gudenas from Euclid, OH, USA on Thu May
29 16:37:09 EDT 2003 says:
" What Governor Ryan did should be an example to all
public office holders, to obey their consciences, no
matter the political costs! "
Supporter Mary Kathryn Schutz from Omaha, NE, USA on Mon
Jun 2 19:56:13 EDT 2003 says:
" In law school in Texas 30 years ago, I was utterly
scandalized by the prejudices and corruption of my
fellow students, many of whom were active duty law
enforcement. Bravo! "Well done, good and faithful
servant." to Governor Ryan for the pardons and for
speaking out. May God be with you. "
Supporter Andrew Swift from Newcastle upon Tyne, England
on Tue Jun 3 18:45:17 EDT 2003 says:
" I support the nomination of Governor Ryan for the
Nobel Peace Prize for his courageous decision to grant
clemency to Death Row inmates in Illinois. He has
realised that the ultimate deterrent is flawed and you
can be tough on crime without resorting to the death
penalty. One innocent person dying is too many. "
Supporter Susan B. Ream from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
USA on Tue Jun 10 11:13:21 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Noel Sutton from Franklin, Indiana U.S.A. on
Tue Jun 10 14:55:46 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter John from Stockholm, Sweden on Fri Jun 13
08:56:15 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Lucinda Allan from Otago New Zealand on Mon
Jun 16 06:38:05 EDT 2003 says:
" Ban the Death Penatly right away. If this is not a
reason to award Mr Ryan the Nobel Peace Prize they may
as well not bother to have one. "
Supporter from on Mon Jun 16 16:19:51 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Derek Britz from Dallas, Texas, USA on Mon Jun
16 23:43:52 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan should great courage and humanity in
recognizing that it is intolerable to execute even one
innocent person. His efforts to focus on justice and
protecting the community rather than revenge make him an
outstanding human being. "
Supporter Charles Russell from Vandalia, IL 62471, USA
on Tue Jun 17 00:15:53 EDT 2003 says:
" An excellent governor! "
94
Supporter Natasha Guttenbeil from Auckland, New Zealand
on Tue Jun 17 01:28:17 EDT 2003 says:
" We do not have the death penalty in my country and I
pray it stays that way. It pains me that it is still
legal in so very many places in the world. I was
incredibly moved by George Ryan's courageous and
ground-breaking initiatives. I'm delighted to find this
site nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize and would
like to register my support for his nomination. In a
system where he could easily continue to procrastinate
and not rock the boat- he was courageous enough to take
the heat and stand up for his fellow man. I am filled
with admiration for his actions. "
Supporter Ramon Davila-Ortiz from Bayamon,Puerto Rico on
Tue Jun 17 11:31:30 EDT 2003 says:
" An outstanding and remarkable decision and moral
posture assumed by ex-governor Ryan....A landmark
decision for the beginning of the century....He deserves
the Nobel...!!! "
Supporter Brian Rose from West Palm Beach, FL USA on Wed
Jun 18 01:22:57 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter David L. Maldonado, Commander; The A.C.P.C.
from Abilene, Texas, USA on Wed Jun 18 10:22:39 EDT 2003
says:
Supporter Susanne Weigand from Cologne, Germany on Wed
Jun 18 10:34:50 EDT 2003 says:
" An act of wisdom, courage and merci. "
Supporter Robb McLennan from Aurora, Ontario, Canada on
Sun Jun 22 22:42:23 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Michelle Coleman from Colorado Springs,
Colorado, USA on Thu Jun 26 03:03:51 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Gregory White from London, United Kingdom on
Thu Jun 26 12:44:00 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan has shown distinct courage and resolve
to change his mind, and advocate the end of the cycle of
violence which is perpetuated through the death penalty.
I sincerely hope that he is awarded the Nobel prize. "
Supporter Christopher Edward Adams from Los Angeles,
California, United States on Thu Jun 26 16:04:10 EDT
2003 says:
" I can only hope this opens wide the floodgates of dp
reform which will ultimately lead to its abolishment.
Mr. George Ryan has my support. "
Supporter Sara Mikesell from Centralia, Illinois U.S.A.
on Sun Jun 29 10:31:05 EDT 2003 says:
95
Supporter Andrew Bushard from Mankato MN USA on Sun Jun
29 21:06:05 EDT 2003 says:
" George Ryan has done one of the most exciting noble
deeds that I have come across. The Koran says "If a
person saves one life, they have saved the entire
world." George Ryan has sided on the right side of
history. His deeds are remarkable and is the most
deserving candidate for the Nobel prize that I have
heard of. This act gives me hope in the good a politican
can do. What an inspiring move! "
Supporter Nicole O. Walker from Omaha, NE USA on Mon Jun
30 21:52:50 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Michael Moore from Tucson, AZ USA on Tue Jul 1
14:10:48 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Francesco S. Peccerillo from Napoli Italia on
Thu Jul 3 03:17:23 EDT 2003 says:
" I am vary happy to support George Ryan "
Supporter Debbie LeBlanc from Brimley, MI USA on Sat Jul
5 22:35:06 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Dylan Bayola from Dallas, TX USA on Sat Jul 5
23:37:53 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Marie Singletary from Dallas, TX USA on Sat
Jul 5 23:40:02 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Marc R. Simon from Omaha, Nebraska, USA on Sat
Jul 5 23:50:28 EDT 2003 says:
" Former Illinois Governor George H. Ryan is to be
greatly commended for his blanket commutation of all on
Death Row in Illinois. The death penalty is a violation
of human rights, violating the fundamental right to life
that even prisoners convicted of murder possess. Former
Governor Ryan's action is unprecedented in the United
States. I support his earning a Nobel Peace Prize for his courageous action. "
Supporter Nancyjo Michaels from Tucson, AZ, USA on Sun
Jul 6 01:13:04 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan is one of the few polititions I can
honestly say I respect. He has forsight and the strength
to stand up for his convictions. A true Humanitarian. "
Supporter Carmen Germino from Sewanee, TN USA on Wed Jul
9 17:19:43 EDT 2003 says:
" Finally! Governor Ryan is a politician with integrity."
Supporter Arthur Reed from Sedalia, MO USA on Thu Jul 10
01:35:53 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan consistently displays the strength to
make his own decisions, regardless of any personal consequences. "
Supporter John Singletary from Jackson, MI 49201 on Sat
Jul 12 23:43:40 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Terry Redman from Lansing, MI 48910 on Sat Jul
12 23:46:28 EDT 2003 says:
96
Supporter Olga Labrada from The Colony, TX 75056 on Sat
Jul 12 23:46:59 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Rafael Grau from Miami, Fl 33126 on Sat Jul 12
23:47:53 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Tiahanna Jones from Melbourne Australia on Sun
Jul 13 04:16:37 EDT 2003 says:
" I am writing to express my full suppport in relation
to Govenor Ryan being a candidate for the Nobel Peace
Prize. This man has made such an impact on the world by
standing up and taking actions for his beliefs. I feel
that not only other Americans in Government, but human
beings as a whole, can really learn something from this
man's singular action. I cannot comment enough in
support of this fellow human being as he has restored my
faith in miracles. May God Bless You Governor Ryan. "
Supporter Amy York from San Diego, California on Sun Jul
13 04:46:47 EDT 2003 says:
" I fully support Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace
Prize. I feel he has taken a bold step that should be rewarded. "
Supporter Patricia Dawn Fletcher from Norfolk, VA on Wed
Jul 16 22:28:45 EDT 2003 says:
" I firmly support Gov. Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize.
Anyone, who stands up against the Death Penalty should
be nominated for the Prize. This man's courage is an
example to others who oppose the Death Penalty! "
Supporter Sonya Olds from Detroit, Michigan USA on Wed
Jul 16 22:41:33 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Philippe Couty from 75010 Paris France on Thu
Jul 17 06:37:51 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter EMIvory from Sunnyside, NY, USA on Thu Jul 17
23:03:27 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan had the courage to do what what right.
The DP is legalized murder. "
Supporter from on Thu Jul 17 23:05:38 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Helen Caddes from Nashville, TN on Sun Jul 20
03:44:26 EDT 2003 says:
" I definitely support Ryan's nomination for the peace
prize. I only hope that the injustices that the
wrongfully accused are plagued with can be more swiftly corrected. "
Supporter Ida Waller from Chesapeake, Virginia on Sun
Jul 20 10:19:19 EDT 2003 says:
" Thank God for you. He gave you the wisdom, compassion
and understanding to know that life is not ours to take.
Also to see that the great number of African-American
lives taken is consistently unfair. And thank you and may
God continue to bless you and your family. "
Supporter Kirsten Schmidt from Ahrensburg, Germany,
Europe on Mon Jul 21 12:07:21 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Tara Wilkinson from Portland, Oregon on Wed
Jul 23 18:37:53 EDT 2003 says:
97
Supporter Angie Squires from Springdale, AR on Thu Jul
24 11:02:12 EDT 2003 says:
" Killing a person for killing a person is almost
comical. The death penalty does not deter murder. It
simply perpetuates murder. "
Supporter Lana Nielsen from Sacramento, California, USA
on Fri Jul 25 02:21:01 EDT 2003 says:
" I think he did a very outstanding job by righting this wrong. "
Supporter Rachel Penticuff from Austin, Texas, USA on
Tue Jul 29 01:25:59 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Lorin Pearson from Perth Australia on Tue Jul
29 08:27:06 EDT 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan should be applauded for his brave actions,
and I feel that history will show that these very
actions were the beginning of reform and change
regarding the death penalty. Gov. Ryan showed amazing
courage by standing up for what he believed in. "
Supporter Jonathan Shimmons from Washington, DC, USA on
Tue Jul 29 11:55:08 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Charles Russell from Abilene, Texas on Wed Jul
30 21:33:17 EDT 2003 says:
" He's the best "people" governor Illinois has had in a
long time. He knows what it means to lead. Nothing has
been said about his struggle with the prison system in
Illinois. I believe restructuring personnel in the
prisons had much more to do with media and public
perception of the alleged corruption reported in
Illinois while he was Secretary of State. "
Supporter kathy tremblay from brantford ontario canada
on Sat Aug 2 17:54:41 EDT 2003 says:
" I praise your effort to go against all your colleges
to do what you beleive in your heart to be the truth.Its
too bad there are not more like you.You are an angel and
I hope the first stepping stone to what is finally going
to put an end to the death penalty in the U.S.AYou have
my vote and many others in Canada.How many men and women
have to die before that country realizes its wrong and
they are killing innocent people "
Supporter Esther Grosse from Freiburg, Germany on Sun
Aug 3 08:17:30 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Salzmann Ursula from Watt-Regensdorf, ZH,
Switzerland on Sun Aug 3 09:09:09 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Salzmann Ursula from Watt-Regensdorf, ZH,
Switzerland on Sun Aug 3 09:10:46 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Yvonne / Deathrow-Angels from Piotta TI
Switzerland on Sun Aug 3 09:50:25 EDT 2003 says:
A very great Idea !" A Hug for Governor Ryan !!
info@deathrow-angels.com www.deathrow-angels.com "
98
Supporter Suzanne Miller from Livingston, Texas, USA on
Sun Aug 3 11:40:38 EDT 2003 says:
" Gov. Ryan is a morally courageous man. That is very
rare in the U.S. political arena. He should be an
example to all elected officials if they had to courage
to see or the moral stamina to wield true justice. "
Supporter Michelle Monoya from Sacramento, CA on Sun Aug
3 23:21:18 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Christine Short from Nottingham, UK on Mon Aug
4 02:34:52 EDT 2003 says:
" Thank you for your courage in standing out against the
death penalty - it gave one hope for the world that a
Governor in the US felt able to do so. "
Supporter Michelle Pennington from Cantalupo, Mi. Italia
on Tue Aug 5 14:21:11 EDT 2003 says:
" Dear Governer Ryan, I read your speech and you can
only be proud of your decision. I think the measure of a
persons ability to forgive and redeem is far more
important then being victimized by ill will or anger,
etc. Please keep up the good work. A admirer, Michelle "
Supporter Randy Blazak, PhD. from Portland, Oregon on
Wed Aug 6 15:17:44 EDT 2003 says:
" As a criminologist, I can tell you the death penalty
serves no actual purpose. Not deterrence. Not vengeance.
It is not cost-effective and as Gov. Ryan has shown, too
many convictions are false. Give Gov. Ryan the NPP and
help stop this moronic racist tradition. "
Supporter Cassie Schalkham from Melbourne, Florida, USA
on Wed Aug 6 21:06:59 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter John C. Goodwin from Demarest, NJ, USA on Fri
Aug 8 11:19:41 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Patria Jacobs from Aptos, CA, USA on Mon Aug
11 00:20:54 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Juliette Hughes from Northcote, Victoria,
Australia on Tue Aug 12 02:36:40 EDT 2003 says:
" It is all too rare these days to find a visionary
leader who acts humanely and altruistically to combat
injustice. It was a courageous and inspiring decision to
commute the death sentences of all the prisoners in
death row. I therefore support the nomination of
Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize. "
Supporter Shelley Drenth from Melbourne, Victoria,
Australia on Tue Aug 12 05:15:56 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Rachel Holl from Sedro-Woolley, WA on Mon Aug
18 18:09:31 EDT 2003 says:
" i think that he is right and he should keep fighting
for it all over the united states! right on! "
99
Supporter Bill from Saint Charles, Illinois on Wed Aug
20 22:33:08 EDT 2003 says:
" This site has better satire than Jonathan Swift! (It
is a joke, right??) "
Supporter Joyce Kohl from Altadena, California, U.S.A.
on Thu Aug 21 12:50:30 EDT 2003 says:
" I totally support Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace
Prize. The death penalty in the United States in morally
abhorrent and unjustly enforced. Executions include
racial bias, financial bias, juvenile offenders,
wrongfully accused and executions of the emotionally
disturbed and retarded. Ryan had the courage to make a
move in the right direction. Giving him credit will
encourage others to follow. "
Supporter Carina Rosenkvist from Växjö, Sweden on Fri
Aug 22 12:41:35 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize! "
Supporter Per Ahrling from Växjö, Sweden on Fri Aug 22
12:42:07 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan for the Nobel Peace Prize! "
Supporter Doyne Damian Clem from Conway, Arkansas on Sun
Aug 24 07:22:43 EDT 2003 says:
" One can restate all of the reasons that the death
penalty is wrong or how unfairly the American system(s)
of justice carry out these arcane laws, but these are
merely the moral framework for Governor Ryan's actions.
There are those of us in the United States that abhor
the death penalty, of which only a scant few are in
positions of leadership that grant the ability to effect
immediate results. Rarer still is the person in such a
position that chooses to act upon his conscience to
treat society's paraihas humanely. Governor Ryan has
acted in the sole interest of humanity through his
actions, putting him in the company of all the great
people awarded the prize already. I would personally
love to see him awarded the Peace Prize in order to send
a clear signal from a distinguished non-American body to
the American people (and her politicians in particular),
that the world values such courage and, hopefully, to
redirect the eer-fleeting American attention to a model
of humanity in our midst. "
Supporter from on Mon Aug 25 01:57:35 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Bonnie Long from Long Beach, California U.S.
on Wed Sep 3 03:39:05 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Jane Dorotik from Chowchilla, CA USA on Wed
Sep 3 03:40:34 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Marilyn Ryan from Ojai, CA USA on Wed Sep 3
03:41:45 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Steve Guy from London on Wed Sep 3 11:06:03
EDT 2003 says: " United Kingdom "
100
Supporter Steve Ward from Manchester, England, UK on Thu
Sep 4 06:15:46 EDT 2003 says:
" Very brave, but the right decision !! "
Supporter Rosmary Connell from El Paso on Fri Sep 5
17:03:19 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter ibrahim from accra GHANA 00233 (WEST AFRICA)
on Sat Sep 6 06:17:40 EDT 2003 says:
" JE SUIS JEUNE BENINOIS RESIDENT AU GHANA POUR MES
ETUDES DE LANGUE JE TE SUPPORTE DANS TOUTES TES ACTIONS
ET JE PROFITE DE LOCASION POUR DE POSER MA DISPONIBILITE
DANS LE CAS OU LE PRESIDENT BUSH BESOIN DES HOMME COMME
MOI POUR ALLER EN IRAQ MERCI DANS L'ESPOIRE QUE VOUS ME
COMPRENDRIEZ JE VOUS QUITTE. "
Supporter SADDAM HUSSEIN from BAGHDAD on Sat Sep 6
07:42:12 EDT 2003 says:
" I'm with You, Governor!!! "
Supporter Anne Stendel Thomas from Marina Del Rey, CA,
usa on Sun Sep 7 20:42:26 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan should be commended for raising national
and world-wide awareness for abolishing the death
penalty. If only our President could demonstrate the
same compassion and empathy as Governor Ryan. Governor
Ryan is truly a good person and was able to recognize
murder is murde no matter the design. Thank you. Anne
Stendl Thomas "
Supporter Brian A. Quindlen from Phoenixville, Pa. USA
on Tue Sep 9 17:16:48 EDT 2003 says:
" Governor Ryan earned this distinction. "
Supporter from on Sat Sep 13 13:36:50 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Louis LaHue from Boynton Beach, Florida , USA
on Sun Sep 14 12:33:09 EDT 2003 says:
" I feel this man ....did the world a favor showing that
there are a lot of men that don't deserve to die for
crimes that are in the air......... one such case on
death role now in State of Florida ......... John Jacob
Chamberlain........ a young man that didn't even pull
the trigger....... and was threaten by the man that did
the killing........went to the police and they gave him
death the man that did it got a retrial and is waiting
for the trial ....while this young man is sitting
.....wonder if he will see his 24 birthday..... "
Supporter Keith Robertson from Freehold, NJ on Tue Sep
16 20:27:50 EDT 2003 says:
" Gov Ryan took a small step. It is a start. We must not
stop until we reach the end "
Supporter Kathrin from Switzerland on Sun Sep 21
15:23:34 EDT 2003 says:
101
Supporter J Salemme from Chicago IL on Mon Sep 22
20:30:11 EDT 2003 says:
" I think if the system is, indeed, so broke that
then-Gov Ryan couldn't tell which convicted people were
guilty, he should have had the courage of his
convinctions and released all the inmates in the
Illinois Department of Corrections. I wonder why he
didn't do that? "
Supporter Bryan Monroe from Vero Beach, FL USA on Wed
Sep 24 07:49:23 EDT 2003 says:
Supporter Patricia Wilde from Toronto, Ontario, Canada
on Mon Sep 29 13:46:44 EDT 2003 says:
" I have always been against the death penalty, and do
volunteer work forAmnesty International and other groups
what work for the abolishment of it. I have been
affected in a very close way, a dear friend being
murdered Januray 10, 2001, and yes, I am still
completely against the death penalty. If I can help in
any way, please let me know. "