Southern University and A&M College, together with the Louis A. Berry Institute for Civil Rights, Human Rights and Social Justice at the Southern University Law Center, will present the “Exonerated Exhibit” from March 3 to March 25 at the Leon R. Tarver II Cultural and Heritage Center. The exhibit showcases artwork by Becky Gottsegen.
Tonight’s event includes a “Wrongful Convictions Panel” at 5 p.m., led by law professor Angela A. Allen-Bell.
The exhibit is being held in recognition of Women’s History Month. It honors both Gottsegen and Allen-Bell for their efforts to promote conversations about justice, equity, and human rights through art, scholarship, and advocacy.
Angela A. Allen-Bell is recognized for her work addressing wrongful convictions and systemic problems in the criminal legal system. Her research has impacted legal scholarship, policy discussions, and individuals affected by wrongful convictions.
Gottsegen’s exhibit features sculpted busts and visual narratives that honor people who were wrongfully convicted but later exonerated after spending a total of 726 years in prison. The installation aims to encourage public reflection on accountability, reform, and the personal effects of wrongful incarceration.
The exhibit will be open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., located at 8320 G. Leon Netterville Drive inside the Leon R. Tarver II Cultural and Heritage Center.
Several related events are scheduled during the exhibition period. These include a screening of “Unpunished” followed by a panel discussion on Friday, March 6 from 5-9 p.m., which requires registration; as well as a “Breaking Free of Shackles” panel on Wednesday, March 25 from noon to 3 p.m. All events are free and open to the public.
