The Legal Aid Society, The Tow Foundation, and Philanthropy New York invite you to a special screening of A24's acclaimed and re-released film "Sing Sing." Poised to be a major contender this awards season, "Sing Sing" showcases the moving true story of John “Divine G” Whitfield, a man wrongfully convicted and imprisoned at Sing Sing Correctional Facility. Through participation in Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA), he and his fellow actors, in a defiant act of creativity, stage their own original comedy. "Sing Sing" powerfully illustrates the transformative power of community and art within the prison system and features a remarkable cast of formerly incarcerated actors who bring their lived experiences to the screen.
Immediately after the screening, join us for an engaging panel discussion with John "Divine G" Whitfield, his attorney Jeffrey Deskovic, as well as leaders from The Legal Aid Society and RTA. Together, we will explore the power of storytelling and the arts to drive profound systems change. You'll gain valuable insights into the multifaceted impacts of incarceration including reentry and wrongful conviction, and Legal Aid's crucial work to protect the rights of New Yorkers as they approach their 150th anniversary. We'll also delve into the vital role of philanthropy in supporting and sustaining the movement for systemic change.
What will you learn?
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The power of storytelling and the arts in driving systems change.
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The multifaceted impacts of incarceration.
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The critical need for organizations like The Legal Aid Society to ensure that every New Yorkers has access to comprehensive legal representation.
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The role of philanthropy in the movement for systemic change within the criminal legal system.
Speakers
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Alfonzo Riley, Director of Paralegal Services, The Legal Aid Society’s Criminal Defense Practice
- John “Divine G” Whitfield, Founder, Divine G Entertainment
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Charles Moore (Moderator), Director of Programs and Operations, Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA)
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Speaker List in Formation
Who should attend?
All interested funders in grantmaking, criminal legal reform, arts, public policy, and related roles. What to expect: film screening (1 hour, 47 minutes runtime) followed by panel discussion and Q&A.
How do you sign up?
4 PM to 7 PM Program
This is an in-person event. Please plan to arrive 15-30 minutes before the program starts and be prepared to show your ID at the registration table. Space is limited and will be on a first come, first served basis.
Members: To register yourself and/or a colleague at your organization, please log in and click the “Register Now” link above. (No fee.)
Guests of Collaborators: Please email Ariane Cruz with your name, title, organizational affiliation, business mailing address, and phone number. Please indicate by which organizer you were invited. (No fee.)
Non-Member Funders: Please email register@philanthropynewyork.org. ($150 fee.)
Accessibility
The main entrance at 320 East 43rd Street is wheelchair accessible, has power-assist doors, and provides same-level access to our reception desk, welcome lounge, and the Ford Foundation Gallery. The screening and reception will be held on Level B which can be accessed via stairs or elevator. Additonally, the film and panel discussion will be presented with open captiions in English. If you have any accessibility requests for this upcoming program, please reach out to Ariane Cruz via email at acruz@philanthropynewyork.org, and we will do our best to accommodate.