JCRSJ Symposium Explores Issues in Federal Sentencing The event is scheduled for Nov. 14-15 at Washington and Lee School of Law.
The Washington and Lee Journal of Civil Rights and Social Justice will host its annual symposium on Thursday, Nov. 14 and Friday, Nov. 15.
This year’s theme relates to issues of privilege and disparity in federal sentencing.
Kemba Smith Pradia, a formerly incarcerated woman, will deliver the keynote address on Thursday at 4pm in the Millhiser Moot Court Room, Sydney Lewis Hall. Pradia was sentenced to 24 years in federal prison at the age of 24 for conspiracy to participate in her boyfriend’s illegal drug activities. She was pardoned under the Clinton administration. Now, Pradia is an advocate for sentencing reform, and she was recently appointed to the Virginia Parole Board.
On Friday, panels will take place between 9am and 4pm. Current panelists include former judges, public defenders, federal prosecutors, activists and academics, who will offer a range of practical and academic perspectives on sentencing reform. All events are free and open to the general public.
Schedule
Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019
4:00pm-5:00pm. Keynote Address: Kemba Smith Pradia
5:00pm-5:30pm Reception and Book Signing
Friday, Nov. 15, 2019
9:00am Welcome
9:15am-10:30am Panel 1: Introduction to Federal Sentencing Disparities
10:45am-12:00pm Panel 2: Ripple Effects of Sentencing Disparities
12:00pm-1:00pm Lunch Break
1:00pm-2:15pm Panel 3: Judicial Discretion, Individualization, and Dignity in the Courtroom
2:15pm-2:30pm Break
2:30pm-3:45pm Panel 4: A Way Forward: Efforts for Reform
3:45pm-4:00pm Closing Remarks
