Today, in Philadelphia, I saw a new documentary film called After Innocence. The film details the stories of seven men who were convicted of serious crimes that they did not commit and who were later exonerated.
The film highlights the difficulties that these men have had in adjusting to society after exoneration. They are victims of a flawed system, but yet they continue to be persecuted. Their records are not expunged, so they have trouble finding jobs, renting apartments, etc., even though their innocence has been proven in a court of law! And the state gives them no compensation or restitution. Most don't even get an apology.
After the screening, I got to personally meet and speak with two exonerees, one of whom was featured in the film. The one thing that struck me most about these two men was their selfless commitment to addressing the issues of compensation, expungement, etc., to try to make the transition easier for future exonerees.
This Sundance award-winning film is now showing in select cities across the country. Everyone should see it, even if you must wait for its release on DVD.
For more information, click here.
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