The new documentary Redemption Beyond My Past is the real life of author, mentor and advocate Chris “Champ” Napier. Champ was raised in poverty in Prichard, Alabama and as a young witnessed his father death. He was traumatized by his environment, and young Champ was constantly being suspended or expelled. At 18 years old he was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. After serving 14 years and 8 months inside Alabama prison and 11 and a half years on parole, Champ became the first person in Alabama to receive a pardon and have their voting rights restored after a murder conviction. Champ’s mission today is to inspire at risk youth to not follow in his footsteps, and to tackle the systemic problems of violence and drugs in poor communities.
This event will be the first screening of Redemption Beyond My Past in New York City, and will feature a post-film discussion with the community and with other leaders organizing at the intersections of poverty, youth, and the prison system.
