Kemba Smith’s journey from incarceration to activism is a testament to her resilience and determination to fight for justice. In the early 1990s, Smith became entangled with a drug dealer, which led to her being sentenced to 24 years in prison due to strict mandatory minimum sentencing laws. Her case drew national attention, highlighting how the criminal justice system disproportionately affects Black women. After serving nearly seven years, Smith was granted amnesty in 2000, thanks partly to public support and advocacy efforts that exposed the injustices in her case.

However, Smith’s struggles didn’t end with her release. Upon re-entering society, she discovered she was barred from voting, a deeply valued right. It wasn’t until 2012 that she finally had her voting rights restored. Since then, Smith has made it her mission to advocate for voting rights and criminal justice reform, focusing on restoring the rights of formerly incarcerated individuals and reforming policies that unfairly impact marginalized communities.

Through her Kemba Smith Foundation, she engages in public speaking, education, and advocacy work, aiming to inspire positive change in criminal voting, justice and rights. Her memoir “Poster Child” details her experiences, and her story has even been adapted into a film, further raising awareness about the importance of these issues.

Smith’s ongoing fight for justice and voting rights highlights the critical need for systemic reforms, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their past, has a voice in shaping their community and country. She continues to use her platform to encourage others to get involved, stay informed, and advocate for a more just and inclusive society. Catch her live by clicking here.

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