Broward County Libraries is launching a free, new program series, “Stand Up, Speak Out: Social Justice Conversations at Broward County Libraries” with a screening of the award-winning PBS documentary Central Park 5 and panel discussion from 2-6PM on Saturday, July 13th at the African-American Research Library & Cultural Center, 2650 Sistrunk Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311, 954-357-6282.

“Stand Up, Speak Out: Social Justice Conversations at Broward County Libraries”is intended to provide historical context to the ongoing national conversation related to injustices that disproportionately affect Black and Latino communities.

The Central Park 5 documentary, which inspired the recent Netflix film, When They See Us, is a biographical drama about five falsely accused and since-exonerated youths, infamously known as the Central Park 5.

Film screening is from 2-4PM followed by a panel discussion from 4-5PM with criminal and social justice experts. Emphasis will be on understanding the protected rights of the individual in relation to law enforcement and ways that everyday people can work to reform our criminal justice system. Given the nature of the subject matter, this event is suitable for ages 13 and older.

Following the film and panel discussion, refreshments will be served from 5-6PM. For additional information, contact Michael Bryant at Mdbryant@broward.org or954-357-7435. This event is free and open to the public. Preregistration on Eventbrite is requested.