Thank you for continuing to stand with Sonny Burton. Over the past week, supporters gathered in Montgomery for a powerful 24-hour vigil, watched Sonny’s clemency film together, and continued raising their voices for mercy. With Sonny’s execution date approaching, every action matters.
the latest happenings
Bearing Witness: February 15 Screening Recap
On February 15, more than 100 people from across the country and around the world came together for a virtual screening of A Case for Clemency: Life for Sonny Burton. The event was hosted with care and compassion by Dr. Elizabeth Vartkessian, Executive Director of ARC and author of The Deserving, who created a meaningful space to learn more about Sonny’s story, reflect on the urgency of his situation, and connect as a community committed to mercy. We are deeply grateful to Dr. Vartkessian for guiding the conversation and to everyone who joined us in witnessing Sonny’s journey together.
The film shares Sonny’s life story, the circumstances of his case, and the extraordinary growth and redemption he has demonstrated during nearly three decades in prison. It also includes voices from people who know him, and who believe he deserves mercy.
For many viewers, this film is a turning point in understanding why clemency matters.
Overnight Vigil: 24 Hours of Presence, Prayer, and Hope
Photo credits: A. Bonowitz & G. Peterkin
Supporters from across Alabama and beyond gathered outside the Governor’s Mansion for a 24-hour peaceful vigil standing together in prayer, reflection, and solidarity just weeks before Sonny’s scheduled execution date.
Throughout the day and night, faith leaders, advocates, and community members held signs, shared Sonny’s story, and reminded passersby that mercy is still possible. The vigil was a powerful demonstration that Sonny is not alone and that many people believe his life is worth saving.
Thank you to speakers Rabbi Scott Looper (Temple Beth Or), SueZann Bosler (Journey of Hope), Dr. Chris Brown (Child of Grace Books), Rev. Shane Isner (First Christian Church), Laurel Hattix (ACLU AL), and Rev. R.K. Smith (Dexter Ave. Baptist Church) for lending your voices in solidarity and support.
A big thank you to Death Penalty Action for helping to make this event possible. You can support their work here. Gratitude to artist Alana Taylor, the Alabama Resisters, Journey of Hope, Voiceless Behind Bars, ACLU AL and Project Hope for their presence throughout the day.
Photo credits: A. Bonowitz
This week's urgent action
Mail a Letter to Governor Ivey
One of the most powerful actions you can take right now is contacting Governor Kay Ivey’s office directly to ask for clemency for Sonny Burton. Mailing a letter to the Governor's office stands out and lets her know that there is support for mercy for Sonny Burton.
Letters can be mailed to:
Office of the Governor Governor Kay Ivey 600 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130
Not sure what to say? Here’s an example you can use or personalize:
Dear Governor Ivey:
I’m writing to respectfully urge you to grant clemency to Charles “Sonny” Burton and commute his sentence to life without parole.
Sonny did not kill anyone, and the person who committed the shooting was resentenced to life years ago. After more than three decades on death row and with his health now severely compromised, mercy is appropriate in this case.
I am not asking for release, only fairness. Please commute his sentence.
Sincerely,
[your name]
in the news
Sonny’s case continues to draw attention from media outlets and community leaders calling for mercy.
Each Monday, supporters will continue to gather peacefully and stand for mercy and human dignity before an irreversible act.
If you are local to Montgomery, we invite you to join us.
Location: In front of the Governor’s Mansion | 1142 Perry St., Montgomery, AL Time: 7:30am – 8:30am CT
Bonus: Supporters who attend on Monday, Feb. 23 can take home a SAVE SONNY yard sign to display in their community while supplies last.
We will also have flyers and postcards available for those who are willing to help us spread the word!
Help Spread the Message in Your Community
Help raise awareness by displaying a Save Sonny yard sign or flag or asking your faith community or organization to change it's marquee message to "Save Sonny."
Yard flags are available to order and have shipped directly to you. This is the last week to order!
Visible reminders help spark conversations, and conversations create momentum.
Financial contributions help cover travel expenses for Sonny’s loved ones, clemency outreach efforts, including public awareness materials and, if it becomes necessary, funeral costs. Donations are being collected through the Alabama Post Conviction Relief Project (APCRP). Visit the page linked below and select “Donate.” You’ll then be directed to APCRP’s PayPal donation form. Please include the note “Save Sonny Campaign” in the donation message.
Thank you for continuing to stand with Sonny and his family during this critical time. Momentum is building. Voices are growing. And mercy is still possible.
Together, we keep showing up.
To find Sonny’s story, share more information about his case with others, sign the petition, and learn more visit his website https://www.charlessonnyburton.com.
With gratitude,
Team Sonny
Your continued presence and commitment matter deeply. This newsletter will continue weekly as we stand together in this call for mercy for Sonny.
Have questions or need more information? Contact us at:
