In a heartwarming display of resilience and newfound freedom, six exonerees recently embarked on a journey to rediscover their sense of personal style after years of being confined to standard-issue uniforms and prison numbers.
These individuals, who had their wrongful convictions overturned with the help of the Innocence Project, found themselves at Bindle & Keep, a suit maker in Brooklyn, where they were treated to a unique and empowering experience. The exonerees, including Renay Lynch, Perry Lott, Carlton Lewis, Leonard Mack, Tyrone Day, and Rosa Jimenez, were given the opportunity to try on sample garments, select fabrics, and be meticulously measured for custom suits.
For Renay Lynch, who spent 26 years in prison before being exonerated, the experience of trying on a navy velvet tuxedo jacket was transformative. She expressed her excitement at the prospect of wearing a suit for promotional events related to her upcoming book, stating that the outfit made a powerful statement without her having to say a word.
Similarly, Perry Lott, who spent 30 years behind bars before his conviction was overturned, marveled at the idea of being measured for a suit as a free man. The promise of a new suit symbolized a fresh start and a newfound sense of identity for him.
The employees at Bindle & Keep, who have been working with the Innocence Project since 2016, aim to provide exonerees with more than just clothing. They hope to instill confidence and empowerment in these individuals as they navigate life outside of prison. Through the gift of custom suits, they offer a tangible reminder that these exonerees are no longer just numbers, but individuals with agency and the right to express themselves.
As these exonerees embark on the next chapter of their lives, they do so with a newfound sense of hope and possibility. The custom suits they received serve as a symbol of their resilience, strength, and unwavering belief in their innocence. And as they continue to fight for justice and rebuild their lives, they do so with the knowledge that they are seen, heard, and supported in their journey towards redemption.
