The Institute for Contemporary Art at Virginia Commenwealth University to present 'Justice Denied: Unreliable Evidence and Accountability' a panel discussion.
When: Wednesday 19 April, 6:30pm - 8:30pm (ET)
Where: Institute for Contemporary Art at VCU, 601 West Broad Street Richmond, VA 23220
Register: This is an in-person only event. Free registration
here
The Panel
This panel will explore themes from
Admissible: Shreds of Evidence, a podcast that shines a light on how evidence itself can be flawed, mishandled, or even manipulated, and how one whistleblower can change everything.
The discussion will center around how a brave whistleblower tried to expose how deeply problematic evidence testing went awry at the Virginia state crime lab in the 1970s and 80s leading to wrongful convictions. What role does forensic science play in court cases today? How can those responsible for mistakes be held accountable? And what can our communities do to reestablish trust in the criminal legal system?
Panellists
Dr. Chioke I’Anson, Director of the VPM + ICA Community Media Center, will moderate the discussion.
- Tessa Kramer, Admissible host and reporter who uncovered the story of Mary Jane Burton and her work at the Virginia state crime lab.
- Dana Gold, Senior Counsel and Director of Education at the Government Accountability Projectand the Director of its Democracy Protection Initiative, fostering understanding about the essential role of whistleblowers.
- Chelsea Higgs Wise, social justice activist and facilitator working toward equitable communication strategies. Ms. Higgs Wise is the co-founder and Executive Director of Marijuana Justice and is co-host of the radio show Race Capitol.
- Maneka Sinha, Associate Professor of Law at the University of Maryland Carey School of Law, with extensive experience in criminal litigation and expertise in the use of forensic science evidence in criminal cases.
Following the panel discussion, attendees may ask questions and engage the panelists.