ABOUT THE FILM

IN HER SHOES takes you behind prison walls into an art class where women incarcerated for crimes like petty theft, prostitution and murder reflect on their lives through the shoes they have worn. Confronting stories of sex abuse, violence, and addiction, they find the confidence and courage to envision taking their next step.

WHY THIS FILM?

  • This is a powerful film for anyone working in the criminal justice system.
  • It shows how art can be a powerful healing tool.
  • It brings up questions to who should be in prison.
  • Would society be better served if some offenders are in drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs and receive mental health assistance?
  • Perfect film to talk about reforming prison and laws.
  • Gives women who are never heard from a Voice.
  • Puts a human face on incarcerated women – See them as people. See them as women, daughters and mothers.
  • Gives hope to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated women.

IN HER SHOES: FILMMAKERS STATEMENT

When my mother was dying of pancreatic cancer, my sister Ann and I found a brand new pair of red high heels in her closet. Those shoes sparked a light in my Mom. She sat up, talked, laughed and was determined that she would get well and dance in those shoes.

She never got well. But those shoes allowed her to hope. This began my journey to discover why shoes mean so much to women from all walks of life. And it has resulted in several projects including IN HER SHOES.

IN HER SHOES began as an outreach program for Sole Sisters, a multi-faceted project that includes several iterations:  documentary film, a play and writing workshops, among others.

For several years, I collaborated with the Dallas County Jail Education Art Program taught by artist and teacher Sandra Lara. Together, we developed an enriching and empowering innovative art and writing course where incarcerated women explore their lives through their most personal accessory – their shoes.

Many of the women suffer from sexual and physical abuse. The implementation of this art program serves as a creative outlet for the participants to heal emotionally, as well as an opportunity to earn college credit.

I feel strongly that this film will shine a light on women who are invisible behind bars and hopefully lead to changes in our prison system.