Real Stories, Real Impact
The Lynched Among Us
Feb 15, 2025 | 7:30 PM
The Lincoln Theatre
The OSBF and CAPA are thrilled to present The Lynched Among Us: A Stage Play about Wrongful Conviction, Reentry, Healing and Redemption. This compelling theatrical production by Voices of Injustice, directed by Al Cleveland, delves into real-life stories of six men from Greater Cleveland who were wrongfully convicted of serious crimes. Among these is the story of Alfred Cleveland, whose case recently gained national attention when it was featured on The Joe Rogan Experience podcast.
Cleveland, along with Benson Davis, John Edwards, and Lenworth Edwards, was wrongfully convicted of the 1991 murder of Marsha Blakely, despite no physical evidence linking the men to the crime.
Their convictions relied heavily on the testimony of a key witness who later admitted to fabricating his account in exchange for a reward. In December 2024, Lorain County Prosecutor J.D. Tomlinson filed a motion for a new trial, acknowledging that the convictions were based on unreliable testimony. If granted, Tomlinson plans to dismiss all charges, a decision hailed by defense attorneys as a critical step toward justice and a significant moment of hope for the men’s exoneration.
Stories like Cleveland’s, as well as those of Michael Sutton, who spent 15 years in prison before his exoneration, and Charles Jackson, who served 27 years before his release, underscore the emotional and societal costs of wrongful convictions. These accounts highlight not only the trauma inflicted on individuals but also the resilience required to rebuild their lives and advocate for systemic change.
Held during Black History Month, this event highlights the disproportionate impact of wrongful convictions and mass incarceration on communities of color. It serves as a powerful call for equity, justice, and systemic reform, amplifying the voices of those affected and ensure that meaningful reforms take place.
Day-Of Programming
Petey Greene Program Reentry Simulation | 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM
The day begins with a Reentry Simulation led by the Petey Greene Program—the largest provider of tutoring and college readiness programs for incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals in the U.S. This immersive simulation places participants in the shoes of individuals reintegrating into society after years of wrongful incarceration and provides valuable insights into the barriers to housing, employment, and support that people face after incarceration. Attendees will deepen their understanding of the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals.
The simulation is free. Space is limited. Registration is required.
Bridging the Access Gap: Ohio Justice Bus | 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
In the afternoon, the Ohio Justice Bus will be on-site to provide free legal assistance and resources. This mobile legal aid office serves rural and underserved communities across Ohio, addressing critical issues that impact financial stability, health, and safety. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with legal experts and learn about resources available to support individuals reentering society. OSBF Fellows, whose focus of this year is Reentry, will also be on hand to volunteer.
Are you a Fellow or attorney that would like to get involved? Email Lisa Ray at lray@osbf.org.
In Partnership With...
