Mini Film Fest: 20 Years of Concrete, Steel, and Paint

Join us for a thought-provoking day of films and discussions marking the 20th anniversary of the film Concrete, Steel, and Paint, directed by Tony Heriza and Cindy Burstein. Through three powerful documentaries, we’ll reflect on the evolution of criminal justice reform, social stigma, and the role of art in bridging divides. Additional films include Paint Me a Road Out of Here by director Catherine Gund, and Pardon Me, directed by Shuja Moore. Each film screening will be followed by a panel discussion exploring criminal justice reform, art and social change. Panelists will include David Luis “Suave” Gonzalez, Tony Heriza, Mary Enoch Elizabeth Baxter, Dr. Kimberly McGlonn, Rashida Ricketts, and Shuja Moore.

Film Screenings & Panel Discussions

11:30 AM – 12:55 PM | Concrete, Steel, and Paint (55 min)
A documentary exploring the intersection of art and justice, where incarcerated men and crime victims collaborate on a mural project that challenges perspectives on punishment, remorse, and reconciliation.

Panel Discussion: Led by David Luis “Suave” Gonzalez, activist and artist, featuring Tony Heriza, director of Concrete, Steel, and Paint.

1:05 PM – 3:00 PM | Paint Me a Road Out of Here  (90mins)
A journey to reclaim Faith Ringgold’s 1971 painting, originally created for women incarcerated on Rikers Island, revealing deeper issues of mass incarceration and Black women’s liberation.

Panel Discussion: Featuring Mary Enoch Elizabeth Baxter, multidisciplinary artist and advocate, moderated by Dr. Kimberly McGlonn, founder of Grant Blvd.

3:10 PM – 4:00 PM | Pardon Me (30min)
An exploration of the pardon process in Pennsylvania, featuring the real-life struggles of individuals seeking to overcome the weight of their criminal records.

Panel Discussion: Moderated by Rashida Ricketts, founder of Graves to Gardens podcast, featuring Shuja Moore, director of Pardon Me.