Poignant and pressing, The Just and The Blind illuminates the unseen and under-heard experiences of incarcerated youth and the realities their families face. Spoken word artist and arts activist Marc Bamuthi Joseph (BAMUTHI) joins forces with long-time collaborator composer/violinist Daniel Bernard Roumain (DBR) to explore themes of racial profiling, sentencing and the prison-industrial complex from the perspective of fathers of Black and Brown children. Centered on the humanity of the historically marginalized, The Just and The Blind provides a framework for the unique voices of the community, striving to humanize the Black and Brown children who are enmeshed in it. The Just and the Blind also includes a short film series and a storytelling curriculum designed for youth and families impacted by incarceration.

In addition to spoken word, music, and dance, The Just and the Blind features the illustrative talent of Xia Gordon and provocative archival footage woven together by media designer David Szlasa under the direction of Michael Garcés.

The Just and the Blind was commissioned by Carnegie Hall, presented as part of the 2019 Create Justice Forum, and produced by SOZO with support from Ford Foundation. Special thanks to Miami Light Project.

A SOZO Production

Conceived and written by Marc Bamuthi Joseph
Original musical score by Daniel Bernard Roumain
Directed by Michael John Garcés

Featuring:
Marc Bamuthi Joseph, spoken word
Daniel Bernard Roumain, violin/piano/electronics
Drew Dollaz, dancer
Nia Andrews, singer

Production & Creative Team:
David Szlasa, projection designer
Xia Gordon, animator
Yoram Savion & Benjamin Tarquin, filmmakers
Featuring Interviews by Nick Jasso, Areli Ceja, Angel Ramos, and Sam Navas in collaboration with Fresh Lifelines for Youth (FLY)

Produced by SOZO
Rika Iino, producer
Melissa Higgins, producer emeritus
Dana Greenfield, curriculum coordinator
Annie March, touring producer, production & stage manager