It sometimes takes a very real and raw conversation to reach teens and children, especially when it comes to at-risk youth. As part of this year’s Because KIDS COUNT® Conference (BKCC), the Indiana Youth Institute (IYI) is hoping one film will drive home the message by showcasing the real-life stories of two young women who lived through the criminal justice system.
IYI will host a free community screening of the film “Girlhood” at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 1 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown. The film provides a first-hand account of two young women who committed violent crimes as adolescents and spent much of their teen years behind bars. The film profiles Shanae Watkins and Megan Jensen. Watkins was convicted in a stabbing that left another girl dead after an argument over a boy. Jensen was accused in a separate but violent assault against another girl. The film provides an inside look at their journeys through the correctional system. Watkins and Jensen speak candidly about their crimes and what led up to them.
Now an adult, Watkins has a strong message for girls who may be on a similar path. Her story will make for a powerful cautionary tale for young girls. She will participate in a community discussion following the film, along with Dr. LaMarr Shields and Dr. Donna Gardner. Shields and Gardner are well-known to conference participants and are both leading sessions at the conference. Dr. Shields is leading a session on how to raise confident and competent girls. Dr. Gardner is leading a session on the rising trend of mental health issues among youth and how to teach young people to become emotionally resilient.
Please note: The target age for this film is 13 and older due to strong language and adult themes. Youth are invited to attend with a trusted caregiver—anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
The screening of the film and discussion are free and open to the community, but pre-registration is encouraged at http://www.iyi.org/girlhood.
