Documentary Screening and Panel Discussion Explores Criminal Justice Reform in Birmingham
Birmingham’s Sidewalk Cinema hosted a screening of the documentary ‘Leaving Angola’ followed by a panel discussion. Organized by the Alabama Appleseed Center for Law & Justice, the event explored themes of redemption, the challenges of criminal reentry, and criminal justice…

Birmingham, AL, October 11, 2026 — A recent event at Birmingham’s Sidewalk Cinema brought together community members and experts to discuss critical issues within the criminal justice system. The venue hosted a screening of the documentary film ‘Leaving Angola’, which was followed by a panel discussion.
The event was organized by the Alabama Appleseed Center for Law & Justice. Its primary focus was to explore themes central to the film, including redemption, the significant challenges individuals face upon reentry into society after incarceration, and the broader landscape of criminal justice reform.
Attendees heard insights from individuals directly involved with the documentary and the issues it addresses. Among the featured speakers were Justin Singleton, who is a subject of the film ‘Leaving Angola’, and Ronald McKeithen from the Alabama Appleseed Center for Law & Justice. Their participation provided direct perspectives on the documentary’s subject matter and the ongoing efforts toward reform.
The discussion aimed to foster a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding criminal reentry and highlight potential pathways for reform within the justice system. The Alabama Appleseed Center for Law & Justice frequently engages in efforts to advocate for policy changes and community support systems aimed at improving outcomes for formerly incarcerated individuals.
Story summarized from the original created by Birmingham Times on www.birminghamtimes.com, see more information here.
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