In a powerful press conference on July 24 in Nashville, Tennessee advocates and service providers for those with intellectual disability asked Governor Lee to stop the execution of Byron Black, a man with intellectual disability, who is scheduled for execution on August 5.

“Nothing about Mr. Black’s intellectual disability has changed; only the legal understanding of his condition based on sound science. If Mr. Black were on trial today, he would not be eligible for the death penalty.” –Zoe Jamail, advocate for people with disabilities

“Governor Lee, if there is ever a time for an executive to bestow mercy, it is to ensure Tennessee does not knowingly and intentionally violate the law by executing a man with intellectual disability.” –Donna DeStefano, service provider and advocate for those with intellectual disability for forty years

“We extend our deepest sympathies to the victims of his crimes and their friends and families, and we do not absolve him of this crime. We are here about the law that is in place today, and it is based on that that we are asking Gov. Lee to commute Byron Black’s sentence. We are asking Gov. Lee to reaffirm that Tennessee does not execute citizens with intellectual disabilities.” –Sarah Sampson, the executive director of the Tennessee Disability Coalition

Watch the story on WKRN and the full press conference.

TAKE ACTION: Send Governor Lee a letter asking him to grant clemency to Byron Black and call him at 615-741-2001.