Demonizing the Death Penalty

Visual Argument!

This photo is a clear representation of the anti-death penalty argument by an unknown photographer. The picture is taken by an observer of the scene, almost removing them from the situation, as if they are offended by it. The black and white use of colors makes the scene seem very dark, implying that the practices surrounding the death penalty are bleak and immoral. Also the subject of the photo adds something to the photographer's commentary. The fact that the 'criminal' is African American is perhaps an attempt by the artist to show discrimination and the unfair quality of capital punishment. The contrast of his simplistic appearance with the fancier men preparing him perhaps shows how it is only a scheduled practice for the other men, again alluding to the unfair nature of the practice.  The subject's removed facial expression also shows the cruelity of the death penalty. The striking black straps against the white garment confine the man, as if he is cruelly treated as a prisoner and has lost hope of redemption. Overall, the photographer of this piece creates a negative standpoint of the death penalty as an immoral act and a cruel practice.