Seattle University School of Law's Center for Civil Rights and Critical Justice welcomes the entire university community to join us for a screening of the documentary Since I Been Down, followed by a moderated Q&A with the film's director, Gilda Sheppard, and its subject, Kimonti Carter. Join us to learn more about the empowerment of incarcerated people and transformative models of justice in Washington. This event is free and open to all. 

Date: November 13th, 2024
Time: 4:00pm - 6:00pm
Location: Sullivan Hall, RM 110

About Since I Been Down

Since I Been Down is an American story showcasing one city, Tacoma, WA, as an example of “Everytown, USA.” These are stories told through the eyes of a community impacted by the punitive fear-based policies of the 1980’s and ‘90’s that sacrificed and labeled their most-vulnerable children as irredeemable “super predators.” The film unravels intimate stories leading to the triumph of the human spirit brought to life through interviews, archival footage, cinema verité discussions, masquerade and dance to cinematically unravel why children commit violent crime, and how these children now adults are breaking free from their fate by creating a model of education and justice that is transforming their lives, our humanity and a quality of life for all our children. Since I Been Down is an enduring narrative that moves through time and contexts challenging society and systems to rethink our tendencies to punish as the response for peace.

About Gilda Sheppard

Gilda Sheppard is an award-winning filmmaker who has screened her documentaries throughout the United States, and internationally in Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, France, and Germany. For over a decade, Sheppard has volunteered to teach sociology courses in several women and men’s prisons in Washington State. Her work has culminated in an award-winning documentary Since I Been Down, on the restorative and transformative role of education and prisoner initiated programs for incarcerated individuals. Her documentary Since I Been Dwon has been praised by the Washington State Supreme Court, community organizations, City and State Legislators and inspired a multifaith coalition of Christians, Jews, and Muslims to support restorative and transformative justice. Sheppard is a 2017 Hedgebrook Fellow for documentary film, a 2019 recipient of an Artist Trust Fellowship and 2023 Best Director Award for Documentary from the New York Independent Film Festival. In addition, Sheppard is Emerita Professor of Sociology, Cultural and Media Literacy at Evergreen State College in Tacoma, Washington.

About Kimonti Carter

Kimonti Carter is an exemplary leader, serving as both President and Director of Education at the Black Prisoners Caucus Community Group. With an unwavering dedication to social justice and community empowerment, Kimonti leads initiatives aimed at empowering incarcerated individuals, advocating for criminal justice reform and fostering hope, resilience, and positive change within both correctional facilities and the broader community.

In addition to his work with the TEACH program, Kimonti serves as the Director of Community Mobilization with Participatory Justice, collaborating with community and stakeholders to implement restorative justice practices in Snohomish County, and as a facilitator of the Participatory Defense HUB of Washington. Furthermore, as the Community Outreach Specialist for the Washington State Office of Public Defense (OPD), Kimonti leads strategic initiatives to engage impacted communities regarding the State v. Blake decision, ensuring individuals receive crucial information and support within the criminal justice system.

Kimonti's commitment to community upliftment is further demonstrated through his role as a mentor and founder of the Young Merchants Life Skills Academy (YBFA), providing invaluable support to black and brown under-resourced youth aged 11 to 24. Through one-on-one coaching, Leadership development and Entrepreneurial opportunities.  Kimonti empowers participants to navigate life challenges while providing support and referrals to essential services.

With his profound dedication, advocacy, and visionary leadership, Kimonti continues to make a profound impact on the lives of incarcerated individuals, empowering them with the tools and opportunities for personal growth, academic success, and meaningful societal change.