In a moment that resonated deeply with the nation, the Central Park Five, now known as the Exonerated Five, confronted former President Donald Trump at the Democratic National Convention (DNC), delivering a powerful speech that highlighted their long fight for justice.
The focus keyword, “Central Park Five Confront Donald Trump,” echoed throughout their address, as they recounted the devastating impact of Trump’s actions on their lives and their determination to overcome the wrongful incarceration they endured.
Thirty-five years ago, the lives of Raymond Santana, Kevin Richardson, Yusef Salaam, Korey Wise, and Antron McCray were shattered when they were wrongfully convicted of a crime they did not commit.
Their youth was stolen, and they served a combined 41 years in prison. During that time, Donald Trump spent $85,000 on full-page ads in major New York newspapers, including the New York Times, calling for their execution, despite their innocence.
Cory Wise, one of the Exonerated Five, took the stage at the DNC to recount the horrors they faced, emphasizing the role Trump played in fueling the hatred and prejudice against them.
“We were innocent kids,” Wise said, his voice filled with emotion. “But we served a total of 41 years in prison because of a man who never cared about the truth.”
Yusef Salaam, now a New York City Councilman representing Harlem, spoke next, highlighting the power of DNA evidence that eventually exonerated them.
Despite this undeniable proof, Trump has never apologized for his actions, nor has he acknowledged the injustice they suffered.
“That man thinks that hate is the animating force in America,” Salaam declared. “But it is not. We have the constitutional right to vote, and we must use it to ensure justice prevails.”
The Exonerated Five urged Americans to vote, to march, and to stand together against the forces of hatred and division.
Their message was clear: the fight for justice is not over, and the November election is a crucial step in moving the country towards a future where justice truly prevails.
“When they see us,” Salaam concluded, “America will finally say goodbye to that hateful man. We will say what I have said after seven long years of wrongful incarceration—free at last, free at last, free at last.”
Kamala Harris, a staunch advocate for justice, was also praised during the speech for her efforts to right the wrongs of the past.
The Exonerated Five’s powerful words served as a reminder of the importance of standing up for what is right, no matter the odds.
Their speech was a call to action, a plea for unity, and a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit.
As the nation listened, the Central Park Five’s message was clear: justice must prevail, and it is up to every American to ensure that it does.
