John,

Today is International Day of Families, a time when we recognize the importance of a safe and supportive family unit. For people like me who have been wrongly incarcerated, family truly is everything.

In 1991, I was just 22 years old when I was wrongfully convicted of a murder outside a nightclub in New York City. I became a suspect after being mistakenly identified by a witness in a photo lineup. Despite four alibi witnesses saying I didn’t do it and no physical evidence linking me to the crime, I was convicted and sentenced to 23 years to life in prison. 

It was completely devastating. At the time, I had such a promising future. I was going to college to get my degree — but I didn’t let it get me down. My second daughter was born while I was still incarcerated and they both became my whole world, along with my son who was born after I lost a major appeal. They were 18, eight, and four years old, respectively, when I was finally freed and exonerated in 2009 after 18 years of wrongful incarceration.

Now, I’m married with three children and three grandkids, and I couldn’t be prouder of the life we’ve built together.

With the support and encouragement of my family, I completed a lifelong goal of mine in 2012: earning my bachelor's degree in behavioral science, Summa Cum Laude. Having my loved ones by my side both during and after my wrongful incarceration meant everything to me. Without them, I don’t know where I’d be today.

It’s because of their love and support that I’m able to continue being an outspoken advocate for transforming our criminal legal system — and I’d love to share my experiences with you. 

If you, your school, or your company are planning an event about the justice system, consider booking me or another speaker from the Innocence Project to come share our stories and talk about how we can build a more just system together.

Thank you so much, and hug your loved ones today!

Fernando Bermudez
Exonerated in 2009
Innocence Project