Join us on Jan. 16 for a crucial conversation with Dr. Yusef Salaam
Dr. Yusef Salaam, a member of the Exonerated Five, will be the keynote speaker at Oakland Community College’s MLK Convocation. The College invites students, employees and the community as we deepen our understanding and reflect on the ongoing struggle for equity and the importance of understanding the complexities of racial injustice during this online event on Thursday, Jan. 16, from 4-5:30 p.m.
Salaam’s story, "When They See Us: A Journey of Resilience and Justice," is one of profound resilience and commitment to justice, serving as a beacon of hope and inspiration for countless individuals. In this online event, he will courageously share his personal journey, shedding light on the devastating impact of systemic inequities, and offering a powerful narrative of healing, advocacy, and transformation. His insights into prison reform, Black male achievement, juvenile justice, civic responsibility, and community engagement will equip and empower all who participate to take meaningful action toward positive change.
The MLK Convocation is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of the struggles faced by marginalized communities and to ignite collective action toward a more just and inclusive society. Join us as we honor the enduring legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and renew our shared commitment to advancing justice, equity, and inclusion for all.
OCC presents this year’s MLK Convocation in partnership with Henry Ford and Macomb Community Colleges.
Event Details
- Date: Thursday, Jan. 16
- Time: 4-5:30 p.m.
- Location: Virtual (Zoom)
Visit OCC 2025 MLK Convocation for more information and to register for the virtual event.
Speaker Biography
In 1989, at just 15 years young, Dr. Yusef Salaam was tried and convicted in the “Central Park jogger” case along with four other Black and Latinx young men. The Exonerated Five spent between seven to 13 years behind bars for crimes they did not commit, until their sentences were overturned in 2002.
Since then, they have received a multi-million-dollar settlement from the city of New York for its injustice and have been profiled in award-winning films, including The Central Park Fivedocumentary from Ken Burns, Sarah Burns and David McMahon and most recently the Emmy award-winning Netflix limited series When They See Us, written and directed by Ava DuVernay.
Over the past two decades, Yusef has become a family man, father, poet, activist, and inspirational speaker. He continues to utilize his platform to share his story with others and educate the public about the impact of mass incarceration and police brutality rooted in our justice system. He regularly advocates for criminal justice reform, prison reform and the abolition of juvenile solitary confinement and capital punishment.
Yusef is also a New York Times bestselling author, and recently released his memoir, Better, Not Bitter., detailing his journey where in the face of misjustice, Yusef found hope.
Yusef is the recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from President Barack Obama (2016) and more recently has shared his story and stance on current issues on CNN, MSNBC, REVOLT TV, NPR Atlanta, FOX and more.
About OCC
Offering nearly 100 degrees and certificates, OCC is Michigan’s largest multi-campus community college and one of the top transfer institutions in the state. The College provides academic, career training and enriching experiences, designed to empower students to reach their potential and enhance our community. More than 1 million students have enrolled in the College since it opened in 1965. A seven-person Board of Trustees governs OCC. Board members are elected on a non-partisan, at-large basis, serve as volunteers and are not paid. Mission statement: OCC is committed to empowering our students to succeed and advancing our community. Learn more at oaklandcc.edu.
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Media Contact: Marketing & Communications | (248) 341-2020 | contactus@oaklandcc.edu