It’s Hispanic Heritage Month, and at the Montana Innocence Project, we recognize that Latinx and Hispanic people are uniquely vulnerable to wrongful convictions due to factors like racial bias, language barriers, immigration status, and more. This month, we honor stories of resilience from those who have faced injustice and emerged on the other side with powerful stories to share. We’ve gathered some of our favorite books, films, and podcasts that highlight these experiences. We hope you’ll take the time to engage with these stories this month and find education and inspiration in them.
Books
A compelling account of Carlos DeLuna, a Latino man wrongfully executed in Texas. Through meticulous research, the authors expose systemic failures and reveal how bias and flawed evidence led to his death, highlighting the human cost of wrongful convictions.
Films & Streaming
Southwest of Salem: The Story of the San Antonio Four
This documentary tells the story of four Latina women wrongfully convicted of child sexual assault. It explores how discrimination, flawed forensic evidence, and false accusations can lead to injustice—and how courage and perseverance can eventually reveal what really happened.
Long Shot (Netflix)
This documentary follows Juan Catalan, a Latino man wrongfully accused of murder and ultimately freed thanks to a chance appearance in the background of an episode of Curb Your Enthusiasm that validated his alibi. It’s a reminder of how quickly injustice can strike and the difference a dedicated advocate can make in uncovering the truth.
Podcasts
Wrongful Conviction with Maggie Freleng – Episode 498: Rosa Jimenez
Rosa Jimenez recounts her experience of being wrongfully convicted of murder and injury to a child. Her story highlights the vulnerabilities of immigrants, language barriers, and the devastating effects of expert testimony that discounts alternative explanations.
Wrongful Conviction with Jason Flom – Episode 524: Clemente Aguirre
Clemente Aguirre shares his experience of being wrongfully convicted of a double homicide. His story demonstrates the persistent challenges Hispanic individuals face in the justice system and the perseverance required to fight for exoneration.