A screening of THE RETURN, a Tribeca Film Festival award-winning documentary about the collateral damage and impact of long prison sentences, occurs June 15. The film chronicles the first time in national history people voted to shorten prison sentences, and the challenges faced by those who were released from prison following that decision. The film has screened in festivals, on Capitol Hill, in a national community screening tour, and in prisons across the country.

One of the biggest barriers for individuals post-release is finding employment. To encourage the private sector to re-think their hiring practices, the creators of THE RETURN have teamed up with The Ford Foundation for an employment screening tour. We welcome individuals and especially local business owners to attend the screening so they can learn about this critical issue and be part of a tangible solution in helping returning citizens find employment.

Following the screening, there will be a panel discussion:

Bilal Chatman, a subject from the film who served 11 years of a life sentence

Kari Galloway, Executive Director, Friends of Guest House

Robert Leggon, Vocational Opportunities, Training, Education and Employment (VOTEE) Division, Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA)

Moderated by Josh Kraushaar, Political Editor, National Journal

The screening and panel will take place Thursday, June 15^th at 6:30 pm at the Agudas Achim Congregation, 2908 Valley Drive, Alexandria, VA 22302. Tickets are free and can be reserved here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-return-screening-and-discussion-tickets-33893399069.

Please join us for this important night of education and local social action.The screening is being sponsored by the Agudas Achim Social Action Committee.