VidCon Anaheim

Jesse Crosson thought his life was over when he was arrested just after his 18th birthday and sentenced to serve 32 years in prison. Yet, that is where his story really began. Inside he found ways to learn, ways to better himself and ways to help those around him. So much so that after 19 years, the governor granted him a conditional pardon and set him free.After being released he dedicated his time to making sure that others inside had the same support and the same resources he did, so that we can have a lot more success stories and a lot fewer tragedies.He started Second Chancer Foundation as a way to create awareness about the criminal legal system and provide direct support to those incarcerated people who will one day get out to be our neighbors and coworkers.

Industry Track

Digital Justice: How Social Media Is Fueling a New Era of Reform

Duration: 45 minutes

Location: Room 304AB

Friday, June 20

3:35 pm - 4:20 pm

Featuring: Amy Nelson (Founder at The Riveter), Jesse Crosson - Second Chancer (Executive Director at Second Chancer Foundation), Michael R. Harris (President at The 20 Percent Project) and more

In an era where the justice system often favors those with power and resources, a new generation of creators is using digital platforms to expose injustice and drive change. Moderated by TikTok’s V Spehar (@underthedesknews), this session features four trailblazers who turned personal battles with the legal system into national movements. From exposing corporate abuse to deploying AI for clemency, these creators are turning storytelling into strategy and outrage into impact. Join this powerful conversation to learn how lived experience, digital advocacy, and civic tech are reshaping the future of justice.

Participants