We are advocating for the parole of Askari Lumumba, who has been incarcerated for 26 years. Incarcerated at the age of 19, Askari is now 46. Over the years, he has transformed his life, dedicating himself to rehabilitation and helping others. He has been a mentor, educator, and role model within the carceral system, consistently using his experiences to guide and uplift those around him. He is not only a changed man but also a deeply caring individual who has given back to the community, his loved ones, and society in meaningful ways.

While incarcerated, Askari earned his GED, Paralegal Certification, and an advanced Business Law Certification. He has worked tirelessly to better himself, having served as a mentor and educator to countless fellow incarcerated individuals, guiding them through legal matters and providing counseling on anger management, substance abuse, and violence prevention. His work has directly impacted the lives of others, making him a role model within the community. He has also contributed to prison education programs and facilitated cultural events. More than just a mentor, Askari has consistently demonstrated a commitment to self-improvement. His infraction-free record since 2018 is a testament to his transformation, his growth, and his deep desire to live a productive life outside of prison.

In November 2023, Askari faced a devastating loss—the murder of his wife, Nicole Demetria Rosser. Nicole was his lifelong love and his greatest supporter. Her loss has been traumatic, leaving a void in his life that he will never fill. Yet, in the face of this trauma, Askari has shown a remarkable level of introspection and growth. His grief has forced him to confront the deepest contradictions of victimizer to victim, leading him to reflect on the complexity of justice and love. He is currently battling the loss of his wife, grappling with the trauma, and grieving alone. He deserves the opportunity to heal in society with his loved ones and community, who need him.

Even in the darkest of times, Askari has been there for others. His unwavering support has not only helped him rebuild himself but also carried those around him, including me, through some of our most difficult times. As his friend and colleague, I can testify to the incredible wisdom, empathy, and strength he has shared with me. I help run his nonprofit from the outside, supporting incarcerated individuals through The Prisoners’ Rights Clinic. His vision, guidance, and intelligence continue to inspire me, even though he is physically confined.

He is a living example of resilience, intelligence, and love in its most pure form. There are countless others who can attest to his character—his relentless spirit, his compassion, and his unyielding desire to make a difference. He has never let his circumstances define him, and his actions speak volumes about the kind of man he is.

It is for all of these reasons that we believe he deserves to come home. We need him—his family needs him, his community needs him, and society needs him. Askari is ready to contribute, to continue his work, and to be a source of hope and support for others who are struggling. He is not the same teenager who went into prison 26 years ago, and he has shown, through his actions, that he has earned a second chance.

Please join us in supporting his parole so he can continue his life's work and be the person he was always meant to be—both for himself and for the world around him.

Call to Action:
Please sign this petition and share it with your network. Together, we can help Askari Lumumba get the second chance he deserves to rebuild his life, heal from his losses, and continue his important work in the community.