June 1, 2009 - Monday Essay on Robert Wideman by Richard Khalifa Diggs Current mood: hopeful Category: Goals, Plans, Hopes May 30, 2009 For The People: I am writing this in behalf of my support of Robert Wideman's Commutation Request and hopefully adding a little insight into the man seeking your support. I am Richard Khalifa Diggs, a fellow Lifer who has spent the last 30-plus years in the same Institution, and often times, the same cell block as Robbie. I can't imagine many of you grasping the totality in the plea Robbie is making, mostly because of bitterly confused political tactics and outright lies concerning real statistics of Lifers over the age of 50 who have served 25+ years: they have virtual 0% prospect of recidivism! Robbie is asking for a second chance. Not a judgment call on yesterday. Not a retrial of the charge. It's called a Second Chance! A chance to make right in someone’s life that which he, through personal experience, has learned can never be retrieved or repaid. That being said... In 1976, when Robbie was convicted, a Life sentence in Pennsylvania was governed by the prospect of a viable, functional Commutation Board of experts from various fields who, upon application, reviewed with a humane mind, the demonstrable changes of the applicant. These men/women, who, based on their Institutional records and conduct, had shown distinctive remorse, and had busied themselves in addressing the needs to become a better citizen. This was done through education, self- examination and honesty, recognizably so that after a period of time served were indeed granted Commutation! This process in Pennsylvania's Criminal System is the most outrageous, as well inhumane, process alongside perhaps four other States. Its totally political, indeed it is cruel and needs to be changed! Robbie deserves a second chance. Thirty-four (34) years served does not reduce the crime; nor bury the pain of family loss. Yet, there is a point where punishment becomes a reflection of society and for America to be a leading nation, a nation touting its Human Rights Laws and Fairness; her unwillingness to forgive (except their own mistakes) just clouds the whole of the so-called American dream! And that’s a shame all Americans live with. I enjoyed the pleasure of devising and implementing a program in 1999 called "Look-Up & Live" here at S.C.I. Pittsburgh with Robbie. With Community involvement, we spoke with youth who were labeled "at risk". I know the heart felt words that Robbie spoke and its impact on the youth attending. I know because I was the designated Response Writer to all questions. Time constraints would not permit us to answer all of the questions asked and I still have folders upon folders of letters from parents as well youth thanking us for our time and honesty! I know he (we) made a difference. As I stated I, too, am a Lifer and have seen serious people make very serious changes and contributions to society after prison. I believe Mr.Wideman would/could be an asset to any Community blessed with his residence. I ask you, practice the precepts of our Lord Jesus Christ; don't just play Church on Sundays! God forgave him, won't you? Support my friend. Thank you Mr. Diggs can be reached at: Mr. Richard Khalifa Diggs, AP3239 P.O. Box 99991 Pittsburgh, PA 15233