Rubin "Hurricane" Carter, the famous 1960s boxer, will speak at Rider University about "The Arts Impact on Social Justice," on Monday, November 7 at 8 p.m. in the Bart Luedeke Center (BLC) Theater. Carter's visit is sponsored by the Rider University Lecture Series Committee and the Student Activities Fee.

The lecture is free to all Rider students, faculty, and staff.

The life of Rubin "Hurricane" Carter has taken many twists and turns. Carter, a New Jersey resident, became known for his controversial convictions of three murders 30 years ago. His boxing career began in 1962, and his fast and furious style made him a crowd favorite. Five years later, Carter was arrested for triple murder. Although steadfastly maintaining his innocence, Carter was convicted and sentenced to three life terms, narrowly escaping the electric chair.

Carter, whose case attracted international attention, became a civil rights cause celebre and was the subject of the Bob Dylan song, "Hurricane." A new trial ensued, but Carter was again convicted. A U.S. District Court judge threw out the conviction in 1985. Three years later, prosecutors dropped the 22-year old indictment.

Denzel Washington earned an Oscar nomination for his portrayal of Carter in the critically acclaimed 1999 film, "The Hurricane." All students, faculty, and staff are permitted one guest. Guest admission is $5 and can be obtained from the BLC Ticket Booth. For more information, call (609) 896-5000, ext. 7106.