This important film pulls back the curtain on the scourge of illiteracy across America and marks a defining moment in our nation’s commitment to our most fundamental principles of liberty and the pursuit of happiness.  

Special opening remarks by Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Dr. Hayden will be followed by a conversation with a distinguished panel of leaders, representing the education, philanthropic, corporate and faith sectors, who will discuss how we all have a part to play in addressing illiteracy. 

Movie Summary: The 70-minute documentary “SENTENCED” delves into the harsh and personal reality of intergenerational illiteracy, capturing the poignant stories of four American families from South-Central Los Angeles, rural Appalachia and New York City. The film also includes insights from educational partners in Fort Worth, Detroit and Memphis, emphasizing that illiteracy is a pervasive community issue that transcends regions, demographics, politics and races. The film gently but honestly highlights the impact of illiteracy, while offering a meaningful and realistic opportunity for viewers to join the fight against this growing problem in their local context.