In 1987, Kissinger co-founded the human rights activist group Refuse & Resist!. He became head of the group's operations in support of Mumia Abu-Jamal. In that capacity, he became particularly known for successfully lobbying the City Council of Santa Cruz, California to adopt a resolution supporting a new trial for Abu-Jamal. In 2000, Kissinger served 90 days in jail after being convicted of violating his probation by speaking at a rally against the death penalty in Philadelphia. The probation had been imposed based on Kissinger's conviction for participating in a peaceful protest in support of Abu-Jamal in Philadelphia. Kissinger had requested permission from the court to speak at the rally, but it was denied.