Rev. Sharon Risher expressed her deep sorrow and empathy for the families affected by the tragic events in Buffalo, New York on May 14, 2022. As someone who has personally experienced the anguish of losing loved ones to violence, Risher can relate to the pain and devastation felt by those who have suffered in similar circumstances. In 2015, her mother and two cousins were among the victims of a mass shooting at Mother Emanuel A.M.E. Church in Charleston, S.C., carried out by a white supremacist. The perpetrator was sentenced to death, but the finality of this punishment did not bring closure to Risher’s family, instead prolonging their agony.
Risher reflected on the inherently conflicting emotions evoked by the trial of the individual responsible for the devastating loss of her loved ones. She acknowledged the challenge of grappling with feelings of anger and seeking vengeance, yet ultimately found that the death penalty did not contribute to her healing process. In fact, she asserted that the incessant media coverage and legal proceedings related to the death penalty only served to reopen wounds and perpetuate suffering.
Drawing from her own experience, Risher emphasized the potential for a life sentence in prison to offer more peace and closure to the families of victims. She questioned the effectiveness of the death penalty in facilitating the healing process, highlighting the lingering uncertainty and prolonged grief endured by those awaiting the execution of the convicted individual. Risher expressed her belief that the removal of a possible death sentence from consideration could enable families to focus on preserving positive memories of their lost loved ones.
In closing, Rev. Sharon Risher called for compassion and comfort for the families impacted by the Buffalo tragedy, while also emphasizing the need for reflection and responsibility on the part of the perpetrator. As someone intimately familiar with the far-reaching consequences of violent crimes, Risher advocated for a more nuanced approach to seeking justice and healing for all those affected.