If the state of Oklahoma has its way, this time next week Wanda Jean Allen will be dead. The 41 year old African American woman was sentenced to death in Oklahoma in 1989 for killing her lover. Her execution is scheduled for January 11.

Allen’s lawyers are arguing at a clemency hearing today that not only was her legal representation inadequate, but she is retarded and mentally impaired. The prosecution also used the fact that the relationship between Allen and her lover was lesbian to attack Allen.

Allen is one of nine Oklahomans on death row slated for execution in the first five weeks of next year.

Speaking from a prayer breakfast for Allen at the Mayflower United Church of Christ, in Norman Oklahoma, is attorney Tonya McClary. Program Director for the National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty.

Guest:

• Tonya McClary, attorney and Program Director for the National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty, speaking from a prayer breakfast from the Oklahoma Mayflower United Church of Christ, Norman, Oklahoma.

Related links:

• National Coalition to Abolish the Death Penalty
• E-mail Governor Frank Keating asking that he grant clemency