Why We Gather

This August marks 19 years since North Carolina carried out its last execution, a reminder of how close we've come to ending the death penalty and how far we still have to go. This moment calls for remembrance and embodied, experiential engagement with what abolition truly means.

Since 1984, the state has executed 43 people under its current death penalty statute. Today, 121 people remain on death row, and capital punishment is still legal, upheld by a system that continues to fail the most vulnerable.

We Keep Us Alive is a free, public event to remember the lives taken, be in solidarity with those still facing death sentences, and call on North Carolina to end capital punishment once and for all. Join us for a day of immersive learning, remembering, community, and collective action. All are welcome.

Event Schedule

• 2:00 PM: The afternoon features abolition-focused workshops and collective learning spaces. Choose from sessions centered on dialogue, creativity, and restorative justice practice. Enjoy live music from members of our community, including Britton Buchanan and Pastor Dewey and Lynne Williams.
• 5:00 PM: Marching one mile from Pullen Memorial Baptist Church to Central Prison, we will gather at this time for a public vigil and name reading, remembering those who have been executed.
• 5:40 PM: Close out the afternoon with refreshments and a brief final gathering.

You are welcome to join for any part of the day.

Important Details

• While most of the day will be inside, the march to Central Prison will take us out into the elements. We'll be marching rain or shine. Please plan for hot August weather and bring water, sun protection, and anything else you may need to stay comfortable.
• We'll have march marshals to help guide the walk. If you'd prefer to drive and meet us at Central Prison, that's welcome too.
• We will have some signs available to carry during the march, but please feel free to bring your own.
• Those who are unable to join the march are welcome to remain at the church, where there will be an activity available.
• Photos and videos may be taken during the event. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let a staff member know.
• We will confirm parking and accessibility info by email with all registrants ahead of the event.

We remember the lives taken. We show up for those still waiting. And we commit to a future beyond executions.

We hope you'll join us.