Phyllis Hildreth, Vice President for Institutional Strategy and Academics at American Baptist College

No mere coming-of-age tale of adversity and triumph, her story testifies to the collective power of Black women nurturing, sustaining us towards new incarnations of justice.”

“In Bending the Arc, attorney-activist Keeda Haynes scribes new stanzas, in registers of resistance, of cages, courts, community, and courage. Sekou Franklin, Associate Professor of Political Science at Middle Tennessee State University Her survival is a testament to familial bonds, community members and allies in the legal profession who believed in second-chance opportunities and the continued struggle for freedom and justice.” Haynes’ book is filled with heartbreak, triumph, and resilience, offering an intimate portrait of a criminal justice system that is callous and fueled by systemic racism, patriarchy, and class hierarchy. “More than a coming-of-age story, Bending the Arc takes readers on a journey through the U.S. Kevin Ring, president of Families Against Mandatory Minimums

I came to know Keeda as a gifted and passionate advocate. The story of her life is inextricably tied with an examination of our flawed justice system from nearly every possible angle. “Keeda Haynes is strong, smart, and resilient. Amy Fettig, Executive Director of The Sentencing Project “The combination of lived experience with frontline legal expertise creates a riveting story that speaks directly to how we confront the racist underpinnings of mass incarceration by placing humanity and community first.” Valarie Kaur, filmmaker and author of See No Stranger Haynes’ account of wrongful imprisonment will ignite you into action.” “A rallying story of horrific injustice and inspiring perseverance. Austin Channing Brown, New York Times-bestselling author of I’m Still Here “Heartrending and heartwarming. Haynes exposes the deep flaws in our justice system, all the while exemplifying the importance of second chances.” Eric Schlosser, New York Times–bestselling author of Fast Food Nation This is a timely and inspiring book about a subject that could not be more important.” “Keeda Haynes suffered a great injustice, struggled, overcame it, and devoted her life to fighting against a criminal justice system responsible for tremendous harm.

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