“Set Her Free”: A Documentary Addressing Domestic Violence and Sentencing Reform in New Jersey

A powerful documentary titled “Set Her Free: Exposing the Trauma to Prison Pipeline” is shining a spotlight on the harrowing experiences of domestic violence survivors in New Jersey. This film not only seeks to expose the struggles these women face but also advocates for significant legislative changes, specifically the Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act (DVSJA).

Intersection of Storytelling and Advocacy

At the helm of this documentary is Dr. Jamila Davis, the executive producer and a former inmate herself. Davis describes the film as a blend of storytelling and policy advocacy, aiming to create real change rather than just raising awareness. “I see Set Her Free as a model for how lived experience, data, and legislative reform can move together, not separately,” she notes. This intentional design makes the film a tool for meaningful dialogue and reform.

The Personal Connection

Davis’s journey adds depth to the narrative. Having served a 12.5-year sentence for bank fraud and being a survivor of domestic violence, she is uniquely positioned to speak on the connection between abuse and crime. The documentary explores how the trauma of past abuse influences the decisions of women, often leading them to commit acts that result in lengthy sentences. The film’s focus on personal stories enhances its emotional impact, allowing viewers to empathize with the women featured.

Featured Voices of Resilience

Among the women highlighting their stories in the film are Dawn Jackson, Denise Staples, Myrna Diaz, Donna Hylton, Nafeesah Goldsmith, and Cass Severe. Each woman has faced significant violence, with many currently serving time at Enda Mahan Correctional Facility in New Jersey. These narratives uncover the complex realities behind their circumstances and challenge the stereotypes often associated with incarcerated individuals.

Jackson’s story, in particular, stands out. After being sentenced to 30 years for the murder of her step-grandfather, who had abused her for years, Jackson found herself caught in a system that often overlooks the context of abuse. Her fight for clemency became a public affair, garnering attention through support from prominent figures like Kim Kardashian. Jackson’s release in 2024 has fueled the push for legislative reform, showcasing not just personal resilience but systemic change.

Legislative Action: The Domestic Violence Survivors Justice Act

Enter State Senator Angela V. McKnight, who introduced the DVSJA bill in June. This pivotal legislation would empower judges to consider domestic violence experiences as mitigating factors in sentencing. The bill has already gained traction in New York, where it was passed in 2019. McKnight’s involvement stems from a shared vision with Davis and the film team; she understood the film as not merely a documentary but as evidence for change.

Misconceptions About Sentencing

One of the hurdles in advocating for such reform is the widespread misconception that the justice system adequately accounts for domestic abuse in sentencing. As Davis emphasizes, “Most people assume judges can fully weigh long-term domestic violence during sentencing.” The truth is more complex. Many survivors face harsh penalties based solely on isolated incidents, without consideration for the years of abuse leading to those moments.

Davis is determined to shift this narrative, illustrating that many women who find themselves on the wrong side of the law are often responding to long-standing trauma rather than being inherently dangerous offenders. “These are women who were forced to make impossible choices after years of abuse, coercion, and fear,” she explains.

The Impact of Advocacy

The documentary aims not only to highlight these injustices but also to catalyze broader cultural change regarding how society views “criminalized survivors.” It invites both the general public and lawmakers to reconsider their perspectives on individuals who act out of desperation after enduring trauma. This shift in viewpoint is vital for facilitating empathy and understanding in the legislative process.

Resources for Survivors

The importance of this conversation extends beyond the specific cases showcased in the documentary. For anyone experiencing domestic violence, resources and support are available. The National Domestic Violence Hotline can be reached at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), offering confidential assistance to individuals in need.

By bridging personal experiences with actionable policy change, “Set Her Free” serves as a compelling call to action for those advocating for the rights and recognition of survivors of domestic violence in the criminal justice system. The film is not just a narrative of survival but a robust framework for systemic improvement and compassion in legislative practices.