Dozens of community members participated in a discussion and book-signing by acclaimed actor, producer, and human rights activist Mike Farrell on October 9, 2009, at EJI.
Best known for his eight years on M*A*S*H and five seasons on Providence, Mike Farrell is also a writer, director, and producer. Farrell has served on human rights and peace delegations to many countries around the world. His first book, Just Call Me Mike, was a Los Angeles Times best seller.
An outspoken critic of the death penalty system and passionate advocate on behalf of antiwar, antipoverty, and anti-torture movements, Mike Farrell was named by the Los Angeles Times as a "Person of the Year." He then set out on an unconventional book tour to promote Just Call Me Mike. Networking with political and social justice groups, Mr. Farrell redefined the book tour through a progressive lens.
His newest book, Of Mule and Men, is a funny and fascinating account of this road trip across the country and back. Ron Kovic, author of Born on the Fourth of July, calls Of Mule and Men a "beautiful and courageous book, an American classic," in which "Mike Farrell celebrates his beloved country with great honesty and sincerity, with humility and grace."
At EJI, Mr. Farrell talked about his work raising awareness about the unfairness and unreliability of the death penalty system. He answered questions from the audience, which included academics, policymakers, and advocates from across the state.
Mr. Farrell signed copies of his books. He donated part of the proceeds from sales of the books at the event to EJI.