Impact
The inspiration for this page came from my desire to bring real stories of justice and resilience to my school community. After learning about the Innocence Project and hearing powerful stories of people like Gary Benloss and Jarrell Daniels, I wanted to create a space where their voices could be heard and their impact could continue to grow. Their courage and commitment to change remind me why storytelling and advocacy are such vital tools in the fight for justice.
I was given the opportunity to welcome back to Fieldston alumnus Jason Flom, founding board member of the innocence Project, and Gary Benloss. Although Gary has not been formally exonerated through the legal system, he has completed his prison sentence and is now free. Many people refer to him as an exoneree. Gary and Jason both gave amazing speeches to encourage youth to get involved with the Innocence Project and other amazing foundations that work towards a more just system. To learn more about Jason and Gary's stories, please see below a podcast episode from Wrongful Conviction.
This is the story of Gary Benloss, who was wrongfully convicted of a murder he did not commit after being framed by police. In this short film, created by students at Georgetown University, it shows how Gary was framed for a murder he did not commit. The police used a photo that depicted him to look more like the other suspects to frame him. I had the opportunity of welcoming Gary to Fieldston to share his story with the youth. For more on Gary’s experience at Fieldston, please see the blog post I wrote detailing his experience.
I interviewed Jarrell Daniels, founder of the Justice Ambassadors Youth Council, a program helps 18 to 25 years- olds from the most underserved communities in New York City. These people have either been affected by the legal system or are involved in gang life. Daniel’s work has helped so many marginalized groups have a second chance. For details on Jarrell Daniels, please see the blog post I wrote about his work.