In an effort to help abolish the death penalty, Bess has traveled to more than a dozen death penalty states, telling her story and why she feels harboring hate and fear do not help victim family members heal. She has worked with the Journey of Hope, from Violence to Healing, a grassroots organization that works to abolish the death penalty, as well as with individual states' coalitions against the death penalty, who arrange for speaking engagements or tours within their state. Bess has spoken and sung at dozens of universities, high schools, churches, prisons and civic organizations across the country, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Indiana, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Virginia and Washington D.C.. 

Bess welcomes your invitations to speak and will speak with faith groups, legislators, professional associations (defenders, prosecutors, police, mental health, etc.), murder victim family groups, civic organizations, prisons, community centers, student groups, universities, grasstops as well as grassroots organizations.

Bess is grateful for the logistical, financial and spiritual support of Hanover Friends Meeting, who made her a “Released Friend” in 2008, and enabled her to embark on a year of singing and speaking.  

May 27, 2009
“Dear Bess, It’s difficult to find words to describe how moving and powerful your presentation on Sunday was for our congregation, and for me personally. You tell your story with such simplicity and humility, and with so much love.  The song at the end perfectly underlined your message, and, as you indicated, made it possible for people to carry out with them a message of joy, as well as the sorrow.  We were so fortunate to have you join us.” - Karen Tyler

Bess’ calm and quiet manner, her passion for justice and healing, her story and her songs move audiences deeply. She continues to welcome invitations to speak. Please see her contact page to inquire about Bess speaking to your group.   

"I do not expect justice from a court of law to resolve my feelings over my mother's death. The death penalty does not provide resolution to victims. That is my life's work. The justice that I expect in this world is my own heart and voice resolved to do no evil. If I can resist evil and can reach out in love, then I have not been totally destroyed by the force that ended my mom's life."

-Bess Klassen-Landis