Serious talk of mass incarceration and prison reform is everywhere right now, from President Donald Trump’s re-election ad in the Super Bowl to episodes of “Keepings Up With the Kardashians,” and attorneys Brittany K. Barnett and MiAngel Cody are largely to thank.
The two lawyers are being honored by Fuse this month as part of its “Future Black History” series. TheWrap is exclusively premiering the video announcing their inclusion in this year’s class, above. In the clip, Barnett and Cody are called “relentless, ass-kicking lawyers fighting for what’s right: abolishing mass incarceration.”
They self-funded their Buried Alive Project, which works to help reform America’s criminal justice system “through transformative litigation, legislation, and humanization,” according to its site: “Our current focus is dismantling profoundly inhumane life without parole sentences handed down under federal drug law.”
“With the help of Kim Kardashian West, their cause went viral with the 90 Days of Freedom Campaign,” the announcement video reminds viewers, noting that thanks to them, 17 people who were sentenced to life for non-violent drug offenses are now back home with their families.
Also in this year’s “Future Black History” class are rapper Megan Thee Stallion, comedian Jaboukie Young-White and sports agent Rich Paul.
“These rising stars are using their voices and influence to propel positive change across our nation, and their impact on society has only just begun,” said Fuse Media CEO Miguel Roggero in a statement on the honorees. “Core to our company’s mission is the celebration of those committed to empowerment and sowing the seeds of unity throughout our society. It is immensely inspiring to hear the stories of courageous people who are embracing a volatile moment in time to make positive impacts on our world.”