Dear beloved community,

“Keith LaMar: SWEET” – a new song & film – is officially being released out into the world today! This piece is the result of a special conversation I had with my brother Keith LaMar who is currently on death row in Ohio. In this interview we talked about so much, stemming from the question: “what is a part of you that nobody ever asks you about?” He responded: “my sweetness”.

You can also stream the song here

And please share it with whoever in your life that would be moved by it

This piece is about vulnerability, resilience, beauty, and the maintenance of one’s humanity despite being forced into the most violent & oppressive conditions.

It is a testament to Keith’s spirit and that of so many people around the world forced into cages and put to death by the state. Luckily Keith is still here, we’re still fighting for his release, and we’re fighting for abolition.

Keith was framed for the Lucasville Prison Riot, and at The Healing Project we have been working diligently to secure his exoneration and freedom, alongside his organization Justice for Keith LaMar.

Incarcerated people are rarely if ever allowed to show their kindness, vulnerability and humanity to the world. This society in general is built on force; it forces people to reproduce domination. So the question is, how do you believe in sweetness in a society that is determined to put as many people as possible to death? Keith LaMar always teaches me how to practice sweetness. He also teaches me how to maintain your principles no matter what the circumstance.

This song is being released as part of The Healing Project Workshop, a special program that I started last year with Keith as the inaugural participant.

The song was made with Keith and produced by my incredible genius collaborator, composer/sound artist Rafiq Bhatia.

The accompanying film was directed by myself, Christian Padron, and Amanda Krische, and features real photos of Keith from throughout his life up to now.

Making this song has changed me, and I hope it will change you too.

ONWARDS TOWARDS ABOLITION •