TEJI at MIT Hosts Transformative Screening of “Sing Sing” with Special Guest JJ Velazquez, Ahead of His Historic Exoneration
Cambridge, MA — On Friday, September 27, The Educational Justice Institute (TEJI) at MIT, in collaboration with A24, The Just Trust, and LSC, hosted a powerful screening of the 2023 drama film "Sing Sing"—a film that highlights the real-life Rehabilitation Through the Arts program at Sing Sing Maximum Security Prison. The evening’s event culminated with a deeply moving discussion led by Jon-Adrian "JJ" Velazquez, a formerly incarcerated advocate for justice and one of the stars of the film, whose story of resilience and redemption mirrors the film’s themes.
The event marked a poignant moment in JJ Velazquez’s life, as the world now awaits his official exoneration on Monday, September 30, at the Manhattan Supreme Court. JJ, who was wrongfully convicted of murder in 1998 and has maintained his innocence, will finally be vindicated after more than two decades behind bars.
"Sing Sing", directed by Greg Kwedar, shines a light on the impact of art in the lives of incarcerated individuals, with many of the film’s cast being formerly incarcerated men, including JJ Velazquez himself. During the post-screening Q&A, JJ spoke about his journey, his role in the film, and the broader importance of providing educational and artistic opportunities for system-impacted individuals.
The evening also featured a compelling conversation between JJ and Victoria Scott, a currently incarcerated individual who teaches courses for TEJI. Their dialogue highlighted the critical role of Post-Secondary Education (PSE) and the arts in breaking cycles of incarceration and fostering personal growth.
The event drew significant attention from students, faculty, and community members, as well as advocates from across the justice reform movement. As JJ prepares for his exoneration, the screening of "Sing Sing" stands as a reminder of the transformative power of the arts and the importance of advocating for systemic change.
Countdown to JJ Velazquez’s Exoneration
Date: Monday, September 30, 2024
Time: 9:30 AM
Location: Manhattan Supreme Court,
111 Centre Street, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10013
For more information on how to get involved with TEJI or to learn more about our programs, please visit teji.mit.edu.
About The Educational Justice Institute at MIT:
The Educational Justice Institute (TEJI) at MIT seeks to address the root causes of mass incarceration through education, research, and community engagement. We believe in the power of education, art, and collaboration to empower system-impacted individuals and to create pathways for justice and opportunity.