Professor Brenda Smith:


A CHAMPION FOR SURVIVORS LIVING BEHIND BARS


BY BRICE HELMS


Brenda V. Smith, an AUWCL professor and advocate for human rights within the criminal legal system, has played a pivotal role in the fight to end sexual violence in prisons. Her efforts have shaped legislation and litigation on ending sexual violence in custody for the past 40 years. Her leadership has influenced discourse both domestically and internationally. In 2004, then Senate Majority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) appointed Professor Smith to the National Prison Rape Elimination Act Commission. As a commissioner, Professor Smith helped to create the regulatory framework of the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA) and has continued to shine a light on the persistent challenges incarcerated individuals face including sexual abuse. Professor Smith served with a WCL alumnus, Judge Reggie Walton ’74, who chaired the commission.


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