Remarkable People on Death Row

JARVIS MASTERS

I was blessed to work closely with Jarvis Masters-we were able to meet there in The Row for nearly 2 years before the Death Row Sangha grew. Jarvis has two books out, which everyone should read. They are stories of how one’s spiritual lens can make meaning life anywhere, even on Death Row.

Perhaps more importantly though is that Jarvis’s case, and his innocence is very active and in the public eye. Please do check out his website for updates.

ALBERT RU-AL JONES

Albert Ru-al Jones is a spiritual hero. He stands to be the most published author of any Death Row Inmates, with 6 books available publicly, and at least 5 more about to be published. “Ru” is one of the most joyful, grace-filled people I have ever met. His deep commitment to Christianity is confirmed in the way he lives his life there on The Row. He does 4 religious retreats every year that are rigorous, and ensure that he keeps the spiritual container of his life intact. Ru has collaborated on many many projects with artists of various genres.

You can read a bit more about the depth of his spirit in my “Bodhicitta Behind Bars” story here.

I urge you to read his books too. I have read (am even in one!) at least four of his books.

Here is my review of his brutally honest book: Ten Toez Down -an account of growing up in South Central as the crack era, Rodney King and other major historical shifts happened.

“This book is a page-turner. I read it cover to cover, as I have a few others of his books. This book could be a great documentary as it reveals so much of life that so many people have lived, but even more have no idea about. Albert's storytelling is a fast-moving, no holds barred journey through a pivotal time in US history. Albert Jones gives us a perspective that most people do not know, once you do, your framework for American History will stand on a whole different platform. This story starts with Albert's earliest memories which include all the things a good upbringing includes: loving family, puppies, friends, good schools. As a teen, girls, weed, territory, loyalty, betrayal and revenge pick up speed and as the pages turn, you are riding shotgun in joyrides, shootouts, close calls with enemies and the wrath of caring relatives. Soon after, crack and guns come into the 'hood and the ante gets raised. Friends become casualties, adrenaline is the life blood and Albert Ru-al Jones keeps us in close whether we want to be or not.”

MAURICE HARRIS

Maurice “Mo” Harris is a dedicated Buddhist practitioner and activist. Without him, my Death Row Buddhist Sangha would not have increased beyond Jarvis Masters and I. Mo is always fighting the good fight whether it be about inmates right to tablets, (which he has succeeded!) right to healthier food and conditions in prison or more, Mo is a mover and shaker. He was also one of the 8 men on Death Row who gave me excellent feedback as I created the Introduction to Buddhism course book.

He is also an excellent writer. His blog “Ashoka Speaks” is worth a look: https://betweenthebars.org/people/show/8439

I recently heard from Mo that he will be liberated from Death Row soon. He is already looking forward to spreading the Dharma where he lands. Maurice is an embodiment of the junction of Spirituality and Social Justice. Check him out.