“Light travels faster than sound. That’s why certain people appear bright until you hear them speak”- Albert Einstein. Public speaking is one of the biggest skills a person pursuing a career in law or even the justice system needs. Without the ability to conduct yourself in front of large groups or to give a speech, … read more
Blog
Frank’s Freedom
Seven years ago, I attended a conference that completely blew me away. A huge room filled with people who all had one thing in common – being convicted of a crime they didn’t commit. The conversations that unfolded were unlike anything I had ever experienced. The shared experiences elevated the discussions in ways I never … read more
Justice in the Making-Community is Key
I recently watched an incredible speech by Cynthia Erivo for Essence’s “Black Women In Hollywood 2025” during this International Women’s Month. To put it simply, it was an amazing and powerful speech that truly resonated with me. She spoke about individual power, the capacity to “fly,” and, most importantly, never letting anyone hold you back … read more
The Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences – Interactive Presentation
There’s something powerful about being in a room full of people who just get it. That’s exactly what I experienced at the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences (ACJS) National Meeting in Denver, CO—an energy that’s hard to put into words but impossible to ignore. It’s the fuel that elevates conversations, sharpens our sense of purpose, … read more
Stepping Into Justice: A Choreographed Conversation at ACJS
I’m beyond excited to attend the Academy of Criminal Justice Sciences’ National Meeting today! It’s an incredible opportunity to engage with students, educators, and professionals who are passionate about the criminal justice system. This year, I’ve been invited to present something unique—an interactive, choreographed conversation that immerses students in the realities of prosecution, defense, and … read more
Judging Inspiration
Inspiration can be tricky. Sometimes, we chase it—reading books, attending conferences, or brainstorming endlessly—hoping that the next great idea will appear. But other times, inspiration sneaks up on us when we least expect it. One of the best inspirations I’ve ever had didn’t come from actively searching; it came from giving myself space after an … read more
Justice in the Making
Hello everyone, I am sure you all stumbled upon this blog and are wondering, who Sophie is and why I am reading a blog written by her about criminal justice through Imparial, NC. I hope to answer those questions in this first introduction to me and my passion for criminal justice. First off, to introduce … read more
Journey’s Third Year Celebration
On February 22, I witnessed something extraordinary at Journey’s third-year celebration—a gathering that transcended typical nonprofit events and revealed the profound impact of authentic criminal justice reform. Journey, born from the vision of a formerly incarcerated person, opened their presentation with North Carolina’s state motto: “Esse Quam Videri” (To be, rather than to seem). By … read more
Communities Profound Impact
At different points in life, we may pause and reflect on the people we’ve known, recognizing them beyond the roles we originally assigned to them. Unfortunately, this realization often comes when someone passes away. Suddenly, a gathering of people—some we never knew existed—come forward, sharing stories that reveal a whole new dimension of the person … read more
Reflection: Woolworth’s Lunch Counter Sit-in
Real change often doesn’t happen quickly. Meaningful progress requires a shift, one that takes time and the collective will of enough people to consider alternatives. We must remind ourselves that change is a process. Thinking about the person I am now, I have no doubt I would have joined that sit-in. Years ago, though, I … read more
Grammy Gala
Consistency and focus can take you further than you ever imagined. The challenge, however, is patience. You never know when or who will notice your work—you only know that you are putting in the effort that needs to be done. For years, I have worked with prison artwork and have seen firsthand how it sparks … read more
The King of Character
In recent weeks, I attended Duke University’s 2025 Martin Luther King Jr. Service of Commemoration, themed “Hope Powered by Community.” The event was deeply inspiring. The first time I heard Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, especially the phrase “content of their character,” I was profoundly moved. As a child, I didn’t fully understand … read more
Artwork, good to the last drop.
It’s a ritual for so many of us to start the day with a cup of coffee—but what if that coffee became your art supply? Stay with me. I’ve been working with a prison artist who specializes in creating stunning artwork entirely out of coffee. The first time I saw his work, I was blown … read more
Experiential Criminal Justice Learning
I feel incredibly fortunate to learn from the next generation. At Impartial, we’ve built nearly everything with the help of a small army of volunteers—most of them under 30, including a remarkable 15-year-old writer. Their intelligence, creativity, and passion have been instrumental in our journey. While most of our collaboration happens virtually, our prison artwork … read more
No Resolutions
No Resolutions. Life moves fast—sometimes faster than I can keep up. With information coming at us from every direction, it’s easy to feel like we’re just reacting to what’s next rather than staying intentional about what really matters. That’s why carving out time to reflect isn’t just a luxury; it’s a necessity. Blocking off time … read more
Stamped Freedom
Each month, Impartial receives on average between 30-40 letters inquiring about our Prison Artwork program. These letters come from individuals across the US prison system, each with unique stories and needs. I respond to every letter. To do so effectively, I’ve developed a system that allows me to dedicate focused time, usually over the weekend, … read more
Christmas in Prison
Impartial just received this Christmas card from a prison artist we have been working with in 2024. Very cool! For most inmates, holidays like Christmas—or even birthdays—are some of the hardest times to endure behind bars. But during the past few months, I had the privilege of meeting a local sheriff who approaches his work … read more
Game On!
Playing for Justice: How Impartial is Transforming the Criminal Justice Conversation Through Gaming At Impartial, we’re on a mission to inspire meaningful change in the criminal justice system—and we’re doing it in an unconventional way: through a groundbreaking video game series. This isn’t just a game; it’s a deeply personal story, rooted in real experiences, … read more
How was your Thanksgiving?
I was prosecuted for a crime I didn’t commit a long time ago. In fact, I was blindsided by the news that I was the target of a criminal investigation on the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, so that day as much as it is filled with the anticipation of wonderful Thanksgiving opportunities, there’s still an ever … read more
Potential Juror
One of the ways we participate in our justice system is through jury duty. For the first time in my life, I’ve been called to serve on December 3, and I couldn’t be more excited. I realize this reaction may be unusual—most people dread the inconvenience it poses. Over the years, I’ve heard countless remarks … read more
