Across the U.S., individuals with criminal records face prejudice and lost opportunities long after they have completed their sentences. These criminal records often trap hardworking adults into second-class status and act on communities as a cause of inter-generational poverty and a social determinant of health. Pardons are an underutilized tool that can help, allowing individuals to pursue their full potential without the burden of their past convictions. Thanks to reforms over the past few years, the process of applying for a pardon is free and does not require a lawyer. 

Pardon Me is a documentary film by Philadelphia filmmaker Shuja Moore that shows how pardons offer the potential to live as full citizens and how they uplift entire communities. The film features the stories of two people going through the pardon process and includes interviews with key civic leaders. By showcasing the transformative potential of pardons, Pardon Me sheds light on the importance of addressing the long-lasting impacts of criminal records and the need for a final release from the criminal justice system. 

Join us for a film screening and panel discussion with: 

• Shuja Moore, Pardon Me director, producer 

• A PA pardon recipient 

• Nyron N. Crawford, Associate Professor, Political Science, Temple University College of Liberal Arts 

• Tobey Oxholm, Director, The Pardon Project 

Moderator: Shanda Sibley, Assistant Clinical Professor, Temple University Beasley School of Law; Director, Systemic Justice Clinic, Sheller Center for Social Justice 

About the film: https://www.pardonsnow.org/ 
About pardons in PA: https://pardonmepa.org/  
Join the Pardon Project PA mailing list, volunteer, and learn how to help: https://pardonmepa.org/how-to-help/ 

Co-sponsors: 
Temple University Libraries 
Department of Criminal Justice 
Beasley School of Law 
Philadelphia Lawyers for Social Equity