Wednesday, September 10
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Watson Forum, Pulliam Center for Contemporary Media
DePauw University
609 S. Locust St., Greencastle, IN 46135
Vernon T. Bateman is an artist, community advocate, and author of five children’s books. He is also fighting for his exoneration and for our world.
Bateman was 18-years-old when he was falsely incarcerated and sentenced to 30 years in prison in 1998. The DNA evidence wasn’t entered into trial, the alleged victim recanted three separate times, as did the one “eyewitness.” The same detective told both Bateman was the perpetrator. The alleged victim’s family repeatedly pleaded for his release, along with Damon Dash and other popular and political figures.
He published his first children’s book in 2010 from solitary confinement. He published every other book from the same inhumane conditions that are widely recognized as human rights abuses.
Bateman was released on parole in 2023 but lives under intense restrictions. Despite this, as Congressman André D. Carson notes, he continues “offering both a challenge and a solution to the injustices we face.”
The public is invited to this unique opportunity to learn about and meet Bateman. After watching a 15-minute documentary screening about his perseverance in the face of such systematic abuse, join in an open question and discussion session.
Sponsored by the Education Studies Department at DePauw University.
Featured image: Bateman posing with his book, “C.O.V.I.D. 19” in prison next to a picture of him and mothers of gun violence victims at Kelly Langford’s Third Annual Stop Gun Violence Brunch in 2023. Credit: Baby22GunsafetyLLC.com.
