Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Dr. Yusef Salaam

Criminal Justice Advocate & Member of "Central Park Five"

Dr. Yusef Salaam Speaking Fee: $20,000 to $30,000

Criminal Justice Advocate & Member of "Central Park Five"

Speaker Profile Thumbnail for Dr. Yusef Salaam
Speaking Fee:
$20,000 to $30,000

Travels From:
ATL - Atlanta, GA

Primary Topic Category:
African American & Black

Secondary Topic Category:
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) / Social Justice

 

Dr. Yusef Salaam Speaker Profile: At A Glance

Yusef Salaam is an influential transformational speaker, who was exonerated in the widely-publicized Central Park Jogger case (1989), along with four African american and Latino boys who were convicted and served time. Yusef has become a family man, father, poet, activist and inspirational speaker. He has committed himself to advocating for and educating people on the issues of mass incarceration, police brutality and misconduct, false confessions, press ethics and bias, race and law, and the disparities in America's criminal justice system, especially for young men of color.

Dr. Yusef Salaam is a beacon of resilience and a voice for justice. Born and raised in Harlem, New York, he was catapulted into the national spotlight at just 15 years old. In 1989, Salaam was wrongfully convicted in the infamous "Central Park Five" case, now known as the "Exonerated Five." His story of triumph over adversity begins here, in the crucible of a grave miscarriage of justice. Despite enduring the harsh realities of the legal system and serving nearly seven years for a crime he did not commit, Salaam emerged with his spirit unbroken. Through perseverance and courage, he became an advocate for truth and reform. After his release, Dr. Salaam dedicated himself to social justice, focusing on telling his story and advocating for criminal justice reform. His experience, though harrowing, became a catalyst for change, transforming him into a powerful advocate for the voiceless. Dr. Salaam's journey took a pivotal turn in 2002 when new evidence exonerated him and his co-accused. This moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life. Embracing the power of education and public speaking, he earned numerous accolades and began sharing his compelling story widely. With eloquence and authenticity, Dr. Salaam speaks not only of his ordeal but also of the broader themes of racial inequity and systemic injustices prevalent in society. Today, Dr. Salaam is a globally recognized keynote speaker, influential author, and accomplished advocate. His speaking engagements are both poignant and inspiring, fostering dialogues around justice, resilience, and the power of redemption. The depth of his insight encourages individuals and communities to strive for transformative change and healing. Beyond the stage, Dr. Salaam continues to inspire through his writings and public engagements. He is committed to nurturing a society that values fairness and equality. With unwavering dedication, he reminds us that even in the face of adversity, one's spirit can soar, and the pursuit of justice is a path we all must walk together.
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