Homecoming Fundraiser for Peter Anekwe

Peter Anekwe is a 58-year-old Brooklyn native who was recently released in February 2023, after 25 years of incarceration. As part of EPIC’s Parole Advocacy Project at NYU Law, we have had the great privilege of getting to know and work with Mr. Anekwe over the past year.

Mr. Anekwe is a gifted poet, writer, advocate, and humanitarian, and he has used the last 25 years to transform himself into a compassionate and dedicated mentor, educator, and leader. During his incarceration, Mr. Anekwe accomplished many things, including publishing a novel, The Turning Point, writing a children's book, and pursuing various other artistic endeavors. He also served as the Director of Prisoners for AIDS Counseling and Education, as Chairperson of the Inmate Grievance Resolution Committee, and worked as a law library clerk and jailhouse lawyer, providing critical legal assistance to those around him.

As he makes the transition to life outside of prison, we are seeking to support Mr. Anekwe in meeting his immediate needs while he applies for jobs. All funds donated to this campaign will go directly to Mr. Anekwe to help cover everyday living expenses (such as food, clothing, toiletries, medical expenses, etc.). He plans to use any remaining funds to publish some of his other written work and to work on building an online platform/community through which formerly incarcerated people can connect and share their experiences. He is also currently in the process of applying for a patent on an invention he created and will use these funds to help cover the related legal and registration expenses.

After immense reflection and with remorse for his actions as a young man, Mr. Anekwe is deeply committed to his family and friends, and looks forward to contributing his many talents to his community. As he is fond of quoting, “service to others is the rent you pay for your room here on earth” (Muhammad Ali). Mr. Anekwe is tremendously grateful for the support he has received from family and friends during his incarceration, and extends his gratitude to all of those offering their support—both monetary and otherwise—as he returns to us.

Please join us in welcoming Mr. Anekwe back home!