DE-Serving Life

Every second chance is different. For all of us, it is an opportunity to be defined by more than our past and to transform our lives in small and big ways moving forward. For those who were sent to prison as children, a second chance is even more powerful. It is an opportunity to prepare for a chance at freedom for the first time in decades. It is an opportunity for hope, where before there was none.

On March 17, 2023, Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham signed SB64 into law, making these second chances possible. With the change in law, New Mexico became the 27th state to end life without parole as a sentencing option for children and provides earlier parole eligibility for people serving long adult sentences for crimes committed as children. This victory is the result of over five years of relentless advocacy led by the family members and loved ones of those serving these excessive and extreme youth sentences.

Because the new law does not include funding for the important parole representation work nor any funding to develop the other supports necessary for people returning to our community after decades of incarceration, advocacy must be provided by non-governmental advocates. (De)serving Life was founded to meet these needs and provide the services that are necessary to ensure a meaningful opportunity at parole and to invest in the success of people as they return home to our community. The changes in law will take effect this summer, and this newly-founded organization is calling on its community to help us prepare for the efforts ahead. From infrastructure to staff, the resources required to meet these immediate needs are significant, and we need your help.

When children are sentenced to life in prison in New Mexico, they are told their lives have no meaning or purpose. It does not matter what positive changes they make, nor does it matter if they have fully committed themselves to accounting for the harm they caused. They are left to feel lost and hopeless. An investment in the implementation of the Second Chance Bill and in (De)serving Life is a recognition that their positive transformation does matter, laying the foundation for a safe, supportive return to the community. It is a commitment to the belief that all children are capable of and worthy of redemption. We hope you will consider making this commitment with us through a donation today.