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“Faith Behind Bars” – A Powerful Discussion at Harvard University
We are honored to invite you to a transformative event featuring Shawn Barksdale and Lawrence Howerton, Jr., two formerly incarcerated individuals who have turned their experiences into a mission for change. Now successful business owners, podcasters, active lobbyists, and advocates for returning citizens, use their platforms to fight for prison reform, human rights, and justice.
“Faith Behind Bars” will dive deep into the intersection of faith, resilience, and justice in the carceral system. Shawn and Larry will share how their faith as Muslims helped them reclaim their agency, rebuild their lives, and advocate for systemic change.
As active lobbyists for returning citizens, Shawn and Larry are at the forefront of legislative efforts to reform the criminal justice system. Their advocacy has already led them to institutions like UVA Law, Georgetown Law, and the University of Richmond Law School—and now, Harvard University has joined the movement. This conversation will challenge perspectives, spark dialogue, and inspire action.
This event is a unique opportunity for policymakers and criminal justice leaders to hear firsthand from those directly impacted by the system and engage in solution-driven dialogue.
MASTER COMMUNICATORS
Don't miss out on the opportunity to hear Shawn A. Barksdale and Lawrence Howerton, Jr. visionary speakers, consultant specializing in diversity and inclusion speak at your next event. Contact us today to schedule a booking and take the first step towards unlocking your full potential.
lived experiences conference 2025
BOOK SHAWN AND LAWRENCE TODAY FOR YOUR EVENT
It's my pleasure to introduce two remarkable speakers, Shawn A. Barksdale and Lawrence Howerton, Jr., who have transformed their lived experiences into a powerful mission for change. They have a combined 41 years of lived experiences. Both formerly incarcerated, they have rebuilt their lives as successful business owners, podcasters, and active lobbyists, using their platforms to advocate for prison reform, human rights, and justice.
Shawn and Lawrence have spoken at esteemed institutions such as UVA Law, Georgetown Law, and the University of Richmond Law School, and they are now bringing their message to Harvard University. Their discussion, "Faith Behind Bars," explores the intersection of faith, resilience, and justice within the carceral system.
Regardless of religious affiliation, their insights highlight how faith has empowered them to reclaim their agency, rebuild their lives, and advocate for systemic change. However, their expertise extends beyond this topic, and they can tailor their presentation to meet the specific needs of your audience.
As active lobbyists for returning citizens, Shawn and Lawrence stand at the forefront of legislative efforts to reform the criminal justice system. Their work directly impacts youth, families, communities, and law enforcement by addressing the challenges and opportunities faced by returning citizens.
Their credentials include Peer Recovery Specialist certification, DEI certification, and ACEs training, making them uniquely qualified to lead meaningful discussions on reentry, rehabilitation, and community engagement.
They specialize in a range of critical topics, including but not limited to:
- Navigating Life Behind Bars
- How Religion Figures In
- Emotional Intelligence
- The New Digital World
- Preparing for Reentry
- Your Support System
- Gainful Employment
- Family and Friends
- Probation & Parole
- Rights Restoration
- Financial Literacy
- Drug Prevention
- Finding Housing
- Avoiding Pitfalls
- Networking
- Giving Back
Through solution-driven dialogue, Shawn and Lawrence engage audiences in conversations that challenge perspectives, spark dialogue, and inspire action. Their experiences and expertise provide valuable insights for individuals, organizations, and policymakers working toward a more just and equitable system.
We invite you to consider bringing them to speak at your next event, conference, or seminar. Your support—whether through planning, sponsorship, or promotion—will help amplify crucial discussions that affect the lives of so many.
For further information or to book Shawn and Lawrence as speakers, please contact me at erichardson1961@gmail.com or 434.446.8995.
Thank you for your time and consideration. We look forward to collaborating with you to make a meaningful impact.
MASTER COMMUNICATORS
Don't miss out on the opportunity to hear Shawn A. Barksdale and Lawrence Howerton, Jr., unique visionary speakers that will inspire and educate your audience at your next event.
Contact us today to schedule a pre booking conversation.