For more than two decades, the Innocence Network Conference has been an annual gathering point for people directly affected by wrongful convictions from around the world, alongside advocates and allies committed to justice, healing, and re-entry support.
“The theme of this year’s conference was ‘Power in Community,’ and our programming focused on how community is built, shared and experienced in the innocence movement,” said Meredith Kennedy, director of the Innocence Network Support. “It was particularly important for us to focus on the power in our movement as we met in a city and state that has long experienced the effects of the deep racial oppression and mass incarceration inherent in the U.S. criminal legal system.”
According to the National Registry of Exonerations, since 1988, 86 people have been exonerated in Louisiana. Of those, 72 are Black and 12 served time on death row, underscoring the disproportionate impact of wrongful convictions on Black individuals in the state.
In the vibrant heart of New Orleans, the event was a beacon of inspiration, uniting over 1,200 attendees through through a blend of educational sessions and powerful moments of collective empowerment.
“The conference has been a real eye opener for me, because it shows me I am not alone,” said Innocence Project exoneree Herman Williams, who spent over 28 years in prison.
“There’s a lot of support here and it makes me feel included.”
Today, the Innocence Network is a growing movement of 71 independent organizations from the U.S., Latin America, Europe, Canada, Asia, and the Middle East.
“Each person who attends the conference makes an impact in the fight against wrongful convictions, and what we learn and experience there together can help illuminate the path forward to create a more equitable and compassionate criminal legal system,” Ms. Kennedy said.
Take a look at the most memorable moments from the conference.
This post was originally published on this site be sure to check out more of their content.
