How do we affect penal reform? For my keystone presentation, I investigate the reality of the death penalty in California. I highlight the inhumane conditions that people on San Quentin’sdeath row exist under by exploring the state of “death row purgatory,” where individuals sentenced to die are never executed. This presentation highlights why the current abolitionist dialogue critically lacks to address the reality of the ethical problems inherent with capital punishment in California. Ultimately, I advocate that a change in dialogue that centers on the humanity of inmates can help push toward meaningful policy change.