Kemba, an MPI Original and BET Original Film, recently screened at the Chicago Cultural Center in an event co-hosted by the Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and media outlets like Creative Cypher, Birdland Media, and Morally Cinful Productions. The film powerfully exposes the far-reaching and often tragic consequences of mandatory minimum sentencing. 

Executive producer and film subject Kemba Smith Pradia attended the screening and participated in a discussion with actress and filmmaker NK Gutierrez. During the conversation, Kemba shared profound insights and the life lessons she learned during one of the darkest periods of her life.

Featuring Nesta Cooper (Apple TV’s See), the film recounts how Kemba’s life took a devastating turn when she fell in love with a man involved in drug trafficking. Though she never engaged in his illegal activities, she was given a harsh 24.5-year prison sentence, exposing the deep flaws of mandatory minimum laws. Her story illuminates the severe and disproportionate impact these laws have on nonviolent offenders, particularly within marginalized communities. Watch Kemba here on BET+, and learn more about how to host your own screening at KembaMovie.com.