- This event has passed.
This Saturday, April 22nd from 12-5 PM at American University, there will be a free criminal justice symposium themed around Expanding Empathy in the carceral system. The discussion brings together various perspectives of incarceration, from returning citizens to poets, in hopes of breaking down the idea that there is one narrative of criminal justice.
Addressing problems incarcerated individuals, victims, and communities affected by the criminal justice system face, this event aims to spark a conversation on AU’s campus on how to respectfully and productively use one’s resources to be an ally and advocate. And above all, these conversations will be fostered in a space that brings together the voices of formerly incarcerated individuals, professionals, artists, and students in order to create a safer and more just future for everyone! We hope to see you there!
The itinerary is as follows:
12:15-1:30 Poetry Readings with Chandra Bozelko and Bleakhouse Publishing
1:30-2:00 Free Minds Write Lunch (Lunch will be provided!)
2:00-3:00 A documentary screening featuring “Becoming Free” by Kristin Adair followed by a Q&A with returning citizens.
3:30-5:00 A Panel of Advocates including:
Malcolm Young— the Founding Executive Director of the Sentencing Project
Michelle Garcia— Director of Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants
Carlos Tyler— former prisoner and Advocate for Changing Perceptions D.C.
Chandra Bozelko—Poet, Author, former prisoner