Dear Friends,
This proud book mama is writing to share the exciting news that SMOKE BUT NO FIRE has entered the world in paperback! I will continue donating all author proceeds to organizations that help people who were wrongly convicted get back on their feet after they’ve been released from prison — so buy your copy today! In fact, I’m in the process of sending my first royalty check to the Innocence Project Exoneree Fund (learn more about their life-changing work here).
October 2nd marked the 8th annual Wrongful Convictions Day.
One way you can take action is by contacting your congressional representative and asking them to support the Justice for Exonerees Act, introduced by Rep. Maxine Waters, which would increase funding for federal exonerees.
As for me, it is proving to be a busy fall.
One highlight was talking with DeRay Mckesson on his thoughtful — and always thought-provoking — Podsave the People podcast. We had an amazing conversation about SMOKE BUT NO FIRE, criminal justice reform, and what needs to happen to improve our system. If you’ve never listened to Podsave the People, give this top-ranked podcast a try. I assure you, it will not disappoint.
Plus, don’t miss my most recent podcast conversation about wrongful convictions on Democracy on the Move with outstanding host Dan Schaefer. I think you’ll enjoy it!
There’s even more on the horizon… and you are cordially invited!
First, I’ll be part of TEDx Butler in Butler, New Jersey, on Monday October 18th, where speakers will explore what it means to “Reimagine.” Tickets are extremely limited, so get yours today!
If you can’t make it to Butler, consider attending a panel discussion, entitled Is The Law A Tool of Social Justice?, hosted by the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Montclair State University. Panelists include Nancy Smith, a prominent civil rights lawyer who led the sexual harassment case against Roger Ailes and Fox News; my ever-amazing colleague Dr. Jason Williams, a noted criminologist who fights for racial and gender justice in our criminal legal system; and me. The October 14th event starts at 6 P.M. and is free and open to the public, either for in-person viewing or for live streaming. Advance registration is required.
Wishing you and yours all the best as we head into autumn. As always, thanks for all that you do.
Take good care,
Jessica