Anthony Graves is a man who has overcome incredible adversity to become a champion for criminal justice reform. Wrongfully convicted for a crime he did not commit, Anthony spent 18 1/2 years in prison, during which he was given two execution dates and witnessed over 400 men being executed around him. Despite the injustice he faced, Anthony was determined to prove his innocence and started a non-profit called Join Hands for Justice while in prison.
After being exonerated and released in 2010, Anthony has become a leading voice for criminal justice reform. He is a published author of the book “Infinite Hope” and has spoken at universities, churches, and other organizations about his wrongful conviction and the need for criminal justice reform. He was also instrumental in helping to get the next innocent man off Texas death row.
In addition to his advocacy work, Anthony has started the Anthony Graves Foundation Peer Navigator Project, a program that trains formerly incarcerated individuals to become professional peer navigators. This innovative program is helping to level the playing field in the criminal justice system by providing emotional support, cultural sensitivity, and education about the criminal justice system to clients and their families. The program is in need of funding for training and for contracting peer navigators out to defense attorneys to assist with their clients.
Anthony’s story is one of resilience, determination, and hope. Despite facing incredible adversity, he has emerged as a leading voice for criminal justice reform and is making a real difference in the lives of those who have been impacted by the criminal justice system.
