Join us for an exclusive screening of Kemba, a powerful film based on the real-life story of Kemba Smith Pradia, followed by the unique opportunity to hear from Kemba herself during an audience Q&A. The film is based on the true story of Kemba Smith, who was charged as a co-conspirator to her college boyfriend's crimes and in 1994 was sentenced to 24.5 years in federal prison. Her case drew national attention and support from various organizations including the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund which ultimately prompted President Bill Clinton to grant her executive clemency.
Light refreshments will be available for registered guests.
About Kemba Smith Pradia
Growing up as an only child in Richmond, Virginia, Kemba Smith graduated high school and continued her education at the prestigious Hampton University. What happened to Kemba in her new campus environment was a nightmare, and led to a 24.5-year sentence in a federal prison. In December 2000, after serving 6.5 years, President Clinton commuted her sentence to time served.
Kemba shares her traumatic real life experience in her book, Poster Child: The Kemba Smith Story. Featured on CNN, Nightline, Court TV, The Early Morning Show, Donahue, Judge Hatchett, and a host of other television programs, Kemba’s story has also been written about in several national publications including The Washington Post, New York Times, Glamour, People, JET, Emerge, Diverse Issues in Higher Education, and Essence magazines.
Kemba is a graduate of Virginia Union University and was a past recipient for a two year Soros Justice Postgraduate Fellowship for advocates. In December 2014, Kemba was appointed to the Virginia Criminal Sentencing Commission by Governor Terry McAuliff. She has spoken at the White House, testified before Congress and the United Nations regarding a variety of criminal justice issues.