It’s been 11 years since I was proven innocent of the crime I never did, but I have almost five years in prison and three-and-a-half years on parole. I was exonerated by my hometown and school, but the state never did. I had sought help later, but that never happened. I ask why?
Today, in my life, I feel sad and a victim of the state and discriminated against, yes I do. I don’t even feel welcome in my hometown. I can feel it and see it and also experienced it many times. I lost a lot because of this and I do mean a lot. But I try every day to hold my head up and think of who I am and my upbringing.
I’ve not given up yet. I will be free. I love my hometown and everyone in it.
I can still remember that day – Nov. 24, 2003 – which was a very memorable day, especially letters from the kids, high school and the yearbook dedication. Thank you all for that moment to help me to believe. It was a full house at the ANB Hall.
Phillip Jackson