An autoethnographic exploration of the lived experiences of a death row exoneree's sister (#115)

Limited research has been conducted examining the impact incarcerations have on the family unit. However, the lived experiences of siblings who support their loved ones have yet to be fully documented, explored, and examined. Sisters are often assigned new roles as they attempt to support and free their siblings. Sisters play a unique role in advocating for and supporting their loved ones upon arrest, trial, incarceration, and reintegration. Facilitating the reintegration of an exoneree is not a linear process. In some instances, the family dynamic is considerably modified, and roles shift within the family unit accordingly. The current study establishes and highlights the significance of being a Black woman whose brother was wrongfully sentenced to death while centering myself within the entire experience. Through established themes, the study highlights the role of resilience, competent family structure, Black women, and community during tragic events. In general, the current study focuses on how my family persists, overcomes, achieves, and maintains established family core values in the midst of tragedy.