Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project Statement on Proposed Resolution to Exonerate Those Accused of Witchcraft

Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project

CTwitchtrialexonerationproject@gmail.com

January 17, 2023

The Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project is pleased that Rep. Jane Garibay has introduced HJ No. 21, Resolution Recognizing the Unfair Treatment of Individuals Accused of Witchcraft During the Seventeenth Century.

Since 2005, Connecticut residents, descendants of witch trial victims, and others have worked to exonerate those accused of witchcraft in Connecticut. The Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project was created to coordinate these efforts. Massachusetts has exonerated those convicted of witchcraft during the Salem Witch-Hunt of 1692-1693. Now Rep. Garibay has taken a critical step toward Connecticut acknowledging the innocence of its own residents convicted of witchcraft in the 17th century. Our organization has been working with Jane for several months to prepare this proposal and is pleased that Sen. Saud Anwar will be working with Jane to pass this important resolution.

This resolution will be an example to others working to recognize and address the wrongs of the past. Connecticut is taking a stand against injustice. Connecticut is taking a stand against misogyny. Connecticut is also taking a stand against witch-hunting, which will resonate in parts of the world where witchcraft accusations continue to lead to violence today. By acknowledging the mistakes of the past, we educate the public that similar actions are not acceptable today.

The Connecticut Witch Trial Exoneration Project strongly urges the General Assembly to pass this legislation without delay.

All who are interested in supporting the exoneration resolution, please join our Discord server, where we will post information for volunteers, and monitor this site for additional updates.