Second Chances: Redeeming the Past, Reframing the Future
a 3-part series diving into the critical issues surrounding mass incarceration, life sentences, and the pursuit of a brighter future.
As the Experiential Programmer and Event Organizer for Saint Joseph's University's Center for Inclusion and Diversity, I had the honor of orchestrating a repeat impactful event series "Second Chances: Redeeming the Past, Reframing the Future." This three-part series, initiated in 2021, delved into the profound effects of mass incarceration, life sentences, and the possibilities of second chances.
Bringing it back in 2023 and working alongside esteemed professors such as Dr. Susan Clampet-Lundquist of the Sociology department and Mike Lyons of Communications department, whose dedication brought this series to fruition, was both inspiring and rewarding.
"Transformative events spark dialogue, foster community, and drive societal change."
Our event sponsors played a crucial role in making these discussions possible. I extend my deepest gratitude to partners like the Beautiful Social Research Collaborative, the Pedro Arrupe Center for Business Ethics, and the Sociology and Criminal Justice Department, among others, whose support highlighted their commitment to addressing social injustices.
At the heart of our first event in the series our discussion was surrounding the documentary short film "Pardon Me," directed by the talented Shuja Moore. Through this film, we shed light on the transformative power of pardons in enabling individuals to reclaim their citizenship and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Shuja's personal journey, from incarceration to advocacy and filmmaking, serves as a powerful testament to the potential for redemption and the pursuit of justice.
After the screening, Mr. Moore and the central figures in the film—Evan Figueroa-Vargas and Antoinette Griffin—joined 2024 Attorney General candidate Keir Bradford-Grey in a dialogue that highlighted the complexity and process of pardons further. This diverse perspective of dialogue made for dynamic conversations, enriching the understanding of the intricacies involved in the pardon system.
This event series underscored the urgent need for societal engagement and policy reform to address the systemic barriers faced by those with criminal records, emphasizing the imperative of second chances in building a more equitable future for all.
