"I'm Innocent": Keith LaMar Speaks Live from Death Row About His Case, Conditions & Pending Execution
Feb 24, 2025
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In this thought-provoking discussion, Keith LaMar, an Ohio death row inmate and author, shares his experiences in solitary confinement and the psychological toll of his situation. He vividly recounts his transformative journey and the importance of mentorship in prison. Joined by Amy Gordiejew from the Justice for Keith LaMar Foundation, they highlight grassroots advocacy efforts and the role of art and music in raising awareness about wrongful convictions. Together, they inspire hope and resilience in the face of impending execution.
Keith LaMar highlights the critical impact of literature and mentorship in his transformative journey while on death row, fostering resilience among inmates.
The establishment of the Justice for Keith LaMar Foundation showcases a dedicated effort to address wrongful convictions and promote social justice through outreach and education.
Deep dives
Life on Death Row
Living on death row is described as a soul-crushing experience, heavily influenced by sensory deprivation that robs individuals of their humanity. Despite enduring 36 years in prison and 32 years in solitary confinement, the speaker emphasizes the importance of mentorship and knowledge-sharing among inmates, particularly with younger individuals entering the system. Through sharing literature and life experiences, he aims to positively impact those around him, countering the despair that often overwhelms prison life. This proactive approach represents a dedication to fostering resilience and understanding in a deeply challenging environment.
Transformation Through Education
The speaker’s transformative journey began with a profound encounter with literature, notably through reading 'The Autobiography of Malcolm X,' which sparked a pivotal shift in his self-concept. After dropping out in the 10th grade and facing the harsh realities of street life, he found unexpected mentorship in prison that equipped him with vital knowledge, such as writing and critical thinking. This education extended beyond formal schooling, as he engaged deeply with works by influential authors like James Baldwin and Richard Wright, who became pivotal in his emotional and intellectual development. The speaker expresses gratitude for choosing to pursue education instead of accepting a plea deal, affirming that this path has allowed him to discover his identity and purpose.
Advocacy and Global Outreach
The establishment of the Justice for Keith Lamar Foundation signifies a movement to support and advocate for those wrongfully convicted, driven by personal experiences of injustice. The foundation has evolved from a small group of friends into a structured organization dedicated to global outreach and awareness of the systemic issues surrounding the death penalty. Engaging young people through book clubs and concerts, the speaker effectively connects his personal story with broader themes of social justice and human rights. By collaborating with musicians and educators, this initiative aims to inspire a new generation to advocate for change and combat the injustices faced by individuals on death row.
Watch Part 2 of our extended interview with Ohio death row inmate Keith LaMar live from the Ohio State Penitentiary, after the release of The Injustice of Justice, a short film about his story that just won the grand prize for best animated short film at the Golden State Film Festival. LaMar talks about his case, conditions in solitary confinement, and his work with musicians and others to raise awareness about his case as he fights to stop his pending execution scheduled in 2027. We also speak with his lawyer, Keegan Stephan, and Amy Gordiejew, director of the Justice for Keith LaMar Foundation.
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