Free Dortell Williams
We are launching a campaign to free Dortell Williams, an incarcerated essayist in his 37th year of life without parole in California.
About Dortell
Dortell Williams is an incarcerated essayist in his 36th year of life without parole in California.
About the Committee
We are a group of concerned individuals who have known Dortell for many years and are working to help free him.
Take Action
Write to California Gov. Gavin Newsom, urging him to Free Dortell Williams & sign a Change.org petition.
About Dortell Williams
Dortell Williams has been incarcerated for over thirty-six years, more than enough time to transform himself. He started off early, earning a paralegal certificate in 1995. Dortell has also earned multiple degrees in prison: 4 Associate of Arts degrees, including an AA in social and behavioral science, a Bachelor of Arts in communications, and a doctorate in Ministries. He is currently earning a Master of Arts in Humanities, a program he initiated through Cal State University, Dominguez Hills. Dortell uses his knowledge to contribute to the lives of others.
We call on Gov. Gavin Newsom to commute Dortell’s sentence.
The California Governor has commuted the sentences of dozens of people serving decades in prison. Dortell Williams has served more than 36 years in prison and his family and community need him. We urge the Governor to do the right thing and reunite Dortell with his family, especially his mother, Cheryl Joe.
Sign the Change.org Petition started by Dortell’s Mother
My name is Cheryl Joe and my firstborn son Darrell “Dortell” Williams has been incarcerated for over thirty-six years. Over the years, I have seen an amazing transformation into the man he has become today.
As I am getting on in age, it is my deepest wish that I be reunited with my son before I too am no longer here.
– Cheryl Joe, Dortell’s mother
Join Us to Free Dortell Williams
Every individual action matters. All it takes is a few minutes.