With over 2.3 million humans stored in new age concentration camps, America has the largest prison population in the world. Although China has four times as many people, it's prison population of 1.5 million is still second, according to the Pew Center for the States.
When the for-profit prison industry mixes with "tough on crime" politicians, it's easy for the average American to get caught in the crossfire; especially if you're Black.
Based on true events, American Violet tells the astonishing story of Dee Roberts (Nicole Beharie), a single mother raising four children in a small Texas town, trying to survive as a waitress.
Police raid the projects-military style-and drag Dee from work in handcuffs, dumping her in women's county jail. The evidence: the word of a police informant facing his own drug charges.
Dee is offered the choice: plead guilty and go home as a convicted felon; or, remain in prison and fight the charges thus, jeopardizing her custody and risking a long prison sentence.
Her mother (Alfre Woodard) encourages her to take the deal, but Dee chooses to fight the system.
American Violet, based on the true story of Regina Kelly is a must see film.
Visit www.americanviolet.com for more info, showtimes and to watch the trailer.
Thursday, May 7 is the last day to see it in most Bay Area theaters, but starting Friday, May 8 American Violet plays at the El Cerrito Speakeasy Theater.
