Criminal Law Reform

Ending Indefinite Solitary Confinement for the Vast Majority of People with Death Sentences in Oklahoma

After years of working collaboratively with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections, we are proud to announce the end of indefinite solitary confinement for the vast majority of people incarcerated with death sentences in Oklahoma.

By Travis Handler

Latest Event


Kendrick Simpson's Clemency Hearing

Kendrick Simpson Clemency Hearing with the Oklahoma Pardon and Parole Board has been scheduled for Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 9:00 am. Mr. Simpson is scheduled for execution on February 12, 2026.

The clemency hearing is open to the public. You can attend in person or watch online via zoom. We highly encourage attendance in person as a show of support for Kendrick and his loved ones.

Attendance Information and Guidelines:

  • Clemency hearings typically run a bit over two hours. Each side's counsel has 40 minutes, the victim's family has 20 minutes, and the person who is incarcerated has 20 minutes. The Pardon and Parole Board can ask questions and discuss before voting.
  • Arrive early (15 minutes or more) to go through security and get a seat before the hearing begins.
  • You should bring your ID with you to sign in.
  • Cell phones are prohibited. You should not be on your phone or take any pictures during the hearing.

Zoom Information:
Web Address: https://doc-ok.zoomgov.com/j/1605301615
Webinar ID: 160 530 1615
Call: 1 669 254 5252 or +1 669 216 1590

For more info click here.

Childhood photos of Kendrick Simpson

More from the Press


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Stay informed on civil rights issues. Discover our latest actions and updates in the Press Release section.

Getting to Know Kendrick Simpson on Death Row

I’ve had the opportunity to get to know the next man Oklahoma plans to kill, Kendrick Simpson. Kendrick and I have visited down on death row many times as I’ve worked with my colleagues and with Kendrick to improve conditions for all the guys on death row. It’s been a privilege to get to know Kendrick and, since you don’t have the same opportunity, I’d like to share my experience with you.

By Randy Bauman

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Open vs. Closed: The Battle for the Future of Language Models

Will Language Models Foster Freedom or Authoritarianism? (part 4 in a series)

A view of the stacks of an open research library

Revisiting the NEA Four: Free Speech Battles in the Arts

From the “decency” fights of the 1990s to today’s “gender ideology” rule, the NEA’s funding shifts are sidelining queer voices. The ACLU is pushing back to protect artists.

A photo of the the NEA Four at the supreme court.

Lawmakers Can't Turn Classrooms Into Sunday Schools

From Arkansas to Oklahoma, politicians are pushing religion into public schools. The ACLU is fighting back to defend church-state separation and students’ rights.

Two street signs at an intersection on a pole reading Church St on one and State St on the other.

Know Your Rights in Encounters with Law Enforcement and Military Troops

The recent militarization of D.C. is a reminder of how quickly government power can expand. Our guide explains what to do if you’re stopped by police or troops.

A group of National Guard troops speaking to DC civilians.

When Border Patrol Came for Kern County

For the attorneys, organizers, and community members on the ground, the Kern County immigration raid was more than just a headline — it was a turning point in the fight to protect their neighbors from fear and injustice.

A demonstration sign that say "When Cruelty Becomes Normal, Compassion Looks Radical."

What's the Future of AI Language Models as a Decentralized Technology?

Many assume that LLMs will always be provided by big tech companies through the cloud, but is that true? (LLMs and power series part 3)

Two fingers disconnecting a network cable from a computer

I’m Hearing About More Pushback Against Flock, Fueled by Concern Over Anti-Immigrant Uses

Policymakers are beginning to recognize that the boundaries between local surveillance and the Trump Administration are hard to maintain

Police being grilled on Flock at Austin City Council meeting

Congress Cuts Medicaid to Fund ICE: How H.R. 1 Harms Communities

Congress voted to gut Medicaid and “defund” Planned Parenthood to fund President Trump’s anti-immigrant agenda. We won’t allow it.

An individual at a 24-hour Vigil and Rally to Protect Medicaid on Capitol Hill, outside of the U.S. Capitol Building, holding a sign that says "Medicaid Cuts Are Community Cuts."