Despite the federal court rejecting his appeals, Buddhist death row inmate Jarvis Jay Masters, supported by Oprah Winfrey, remains resolute in his fight for justice.
At a Glance
- Jarvis Jay Masters plans to continue his legal battle after a federal court’s dismissal.
- Masters remains on death row for the 1985 murder of a corrections officer, a crime he maintains he did not commit.
- Oprah and other celebrities have publicly backed Masters, emphasizing the potential faults within the justice system.
- The #FreeJarvis campaign highlights significant concerns about the validity of the conviction.
Buddhist Inmate’s Legal Struggles
Jarvis Jay Masters, who has been on California’s death row for decades, faced a significant blow when a federal court dismissed his latest appeal on September 3. Masters, convicted for the 1985 murder of San Quentin State Prison corrections officer Sgt. Hal Burchfield, contends he was wrongfully accused and framed by prison gang leaders who forced him to write down weapon details.
Oprah Winfrey’s support has brought significant attention to Masters’s case. Winfrey featured his memoir, “That Bird Has My Wings,” in her Book Club, amplifying his plea for justice. Despite his legal setbacks, Masters’s attorney, Michael F. Williams, asserts the strength of their evidence and arguments.
The Crime and Controversy
Masters was convicted based on evidence including notes in his handwriting describing the murder weapon. Prosecutors argued that Masters had made the weapon used in the crime. However, Masters has always maintained his innocence, asserting he was coerced into copying the notes by prison gang officials. These elements have raised serious questions about the validity of his conviction.
“The legal system shows little interest in the strong case for his innocence on the charges and seems to see him as only the surly young Black man it locked up all those years ago,” said Rebecca Solnit, reflecting on systemic biases that may have affected his trial.
Masters’s Life and Transformation
Masters’s life changed dramatically in prison. Originally entering San Quentin in 1981 for an armed robbery at age 19, he later converted to Buddhism. He immersed himself in spiritual practices, leading to a life of contemplation and change. Masters’s literary contributions, including winning a 1992 PEN Center Writing Award for Prisoners, have inspired many inside and outside the prison system. “From this day forward I will try to end suffering of all human beings and other beings,” said Jarvis Jay Masters.
His spiritual journey and activism within the prison walls continue to draw profound attention. He was recognized by Pema Chodron, a renowned Shambhala Buddhist, which further cemented his reputation as a figure of resilience and reform.
The #FreeJarvis Campaign
The #FreeJarvis campaign sheds light on several concerns surrounding Masters’s conviction. Critical points include recanted witness statements and the disparity in sentencing, as the actual murderer received a life sentence. Activists argue that such inconsistencies necessitate a thorough re-examination and potential reform within the justice system.
“In here, helping others could cost me my life. Can I qualify my vow by common sense? Can I use my intelligence not to cause my own death?” asked Masters.
Masters continues to practice Buddhism daily, fostering a spirit of peace and helping others despite the ever-present violence and strife around him. His story, continually highlighted by Oprah and other supporters, stresses an urgent need for justice system reforms in the United States.
