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.

The CIA's Long and Dangerous History of Refusing to Answer Absurdly Obvious Questions

The implications of Connell v. CIA and how we’re holding the CIA accountable for its actions at the Guantánamo Bay military prison.

CIA logo on cracked wall.

The Supreme Court Will Soon Determine Whether Cities Can Punish People for Sleeping in Public When They Have Nowhere Else to Go

Read our Q&A with Scout Katovich, staff attorney at the Trone Center for Justice and Equality, on the stakes of Grants Pass v. Johnson.

The exterior of the Supreme Court.

Quiz: State Legislation and the Part You Play

The laws passed in your state crucially affect your civil liberties — but you can influence this legislative process at the polls.

A graphic featuring a map of the United States and different voting and legislative motifs.

How We're Fighting for Gender Equity Nationwide

Here is a look at how we are challenging discriminatory gender policies nationwide

A sign reading "WOMEN'S RIGHTS ARE HUMAN RIGHTS" is held high by women's rights advocates.

2024 Mid Legislative Session Update

We are officially halfway through the 2024 Legislative Session! Although there is some harmful legislation that has passed their committees, there is still good news. Many of these bills did not survive the floor deadline.

By Cindy Nguyen

Light blue background, Oklahoma Capitol Rotunda

State Legislative Sessions: How They Impact Your Rights

Many state legislative sessions are underway right now — learn more about this crucial political process and how it can bolster or reduce your rights.

Individuals in a group holding ACLU-branded signs saying "We the People," and "You Can't Legislate Away Our Existence."

Fighting Back Against Discriminatory Laws That Impact People Living with HIV

The ACLU is challenging a Tennessee law that criminalizes HIV status. This law unfairly prevents people from securing employment and housing.

A demonstrator, leaning against a light blue car and with their face hidden holds a sign reading "HIV IS NOT A CRIME".

Why Allowing Chaplains in Public Schools Harms Students

Across the country, efforts to install chaplains in public schools threaten to undermine students’ religious freedom rights and their well-being. Here’s what you need to know.

A group of kids moving in a school hallway.

"We Do No Such Thing": What the 303 Creative Decision Means and Doesn't Mean for Anti-Discrimination and Public Accommodation Laws

Businesses offering expressive services do not have a First Amendment right to refuse to serve customers based on their identity. The SCOTUS decision merely recognizes a business’s right to choose not to sell certain products to anyone.

A Pride supporter (whose face cannot be seen) holds an Intersex-inclusive Pride Flag in their hair while facing the Supreme Court.