San Quentin News

Written By Incarcerated - Advancing Social Justice

S.Q. News Photographer Heads Out the Gate

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Javier Jiménez, the San Quentin News (SQN) staff photographer for the last 18 months, ended his eight-year prison journey on March 16 when he became a returning citizen.

“I never thought my criminality would end—and to get a new start while being at San Quentin, it’s unbelievable,” said the returning husband and father of a son.

Jiménez credits SQN with allowing him to “get back in touch with the passion (photography) I have loved for 23 years.”

Jiménez is an example of CDCR Secretary Ralph Diaz’s new mission statement:

“To facilitate the successful reintegration of the individuals in our care back to their communities equipped with the tools to be drug-free, healthy, and employable members of society by providing education, treatment, rehabilitative and restorative justice programs, all in a safe and humane environment.”

Before leaving, Jimenez talked with the San Quentin News. The self-taught photographer said, “I feel lucky and, just as important, [I] came through under pressure for the newspaper. I was in the right place at the right time. I knew [previous photographer] Eddie Herena was leaving and knew the editor-in-chief, Jesse Vasquez. I put my resumé in, and it, the resumé, only showed my ambition to better myself and the News team hired me.”

Jiminez reminisced about his favorite photo shoot. “My favorite photo shoot was my very first one—The Queens of the Stone Age. The Warden was there, I met Lieutenant Robinson, and someone said, “Here, turn on the camera.” Smiling, he said, “That’s a lot of pressure.”

The staff photographer shoots two to three hundred shots per event. Jimenez evaluated his own work, saying, “I was not good at first, but have gotten much better with more access to the camera.”

From the artistic side, Jimenez leaves words of wisdom for the next photographer(s). “You’ll get thrown in, so read about the basics and it better flow—either you have the passion to improve in any craft or occupation or you don’t. My improvement came from knowing I was working with a national newspaper that was paying me to learn—and I am getting better because I have that passion to improve.”

One of the mainstays in the SQN office, he stabilized the crew with a daily dose of humor and wisdom from “real talk.” Jiménez looked at every day he spent in the newsroom as “comical—like stand-up comedy,” and left a remembrance of each “family member” of the staff:

  • Marcus “Wali” Henderson, editor-in chief, is a “laid back person who loves to write.”
  • Juan Haines, senior editor, is the “smooth argumentative grandpa.”
  • Kevin Sawyer, associate editor, is “meticulously organized and a great writer.”
  • Joe Garcia, the Journalism Guild chairperson, he sarcastically called “the weirdest personal trainer I’ve ever met.”
  • David Ditto, circulation manager, is “always looking at the positive aspects of EVERYTHING.”
  • Charles Crowe, staff writer, has “an undercover sense of humor I love.”
  • Heriberto Arredondo, staff writer,  “will have big shoes to fill when Juan Espinosa leaves.”
  • Anthony Caravalho, staff writer:  “You took a lot of ‘stuff’ from us and you keep coming back—hope to do business with you on the outside.”
  •  Juan Espinosa, layout designer and leader of Wall City’s Spanish edition, he credits as “the most important representative of the 35-45% of incarcerated Hispanic people. “Juan is my genius brother that claims he is not a genius, but I know better.”
  • Richard “Bonaru” Richardson, executive editor, is “my brother with like-minded aspirations who deserves to go home.”

Jimenez’s own aspirations are to live where he can afford to buy land, and to build a nice home for his family while keeping them safe. If he can own a photo studio or fall back on his construction talents upon his return to society, he will be satisfied going home to the family he loves.

Executive Editor Richard Richardson said the news group will depend on Jiménez’s support for photographs from outside stories the group is developing. Currently Jiménez hopes to follow his predecessor, Eddie Herena, who is working with Wall City, while he considers offers to be staff photographer for a local nonprofit called “Through The Bars.”

“To make a living out of my passion (photography) is the most enjoyable thing I was allowed to do in prison, and if I can carry it beyond the walls of San Quentin I would consider myself very fortunate,” said the SQ News photographer. “Hopefully I can continue capturing people’s attention with pictures—that is my goal.

“I remember at DVI eight years ago, I read all about the programs at San Quentin and hoped to get there.” For those aspiring to join the nation’s #1 news outlet on social reform, he added, “I think the paper allows you to hone skills while in prison, especially if you can write. I mean, where else can you be consistently published and be around people who carry weight in the justice system on a daily basis? It’s just unheard of,” said Jiménez.

Monday morning March 16 upon his release, you could have found “Javy” at the nearest taco truck before he went home to continue another passion he has not done for eight years—cooking enchiladas for his family.

Peace movement takes root in all 36 California prisons

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mam Fasi, Rabbi Paul Shleffar and Chaplain Hector Frank Heredia of Native Services

California’s top prison official, Ralph Diaz, says as a society our differences are a good thing, and no matter what a person’s social background is, “They bring value to the world simply by being here.”

Diaz is secretary of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). His statement was delivered to San Quentin on the Day of Peace and Reconciliation observed in 35 prisons on Jan. 29. The event aims to support non-violent living and spiritual unity through an all-faith dialogue.

Chief Deputy Warden Brumfield greeted participants before delivering Diaz’s message inside the prison’s Protestant Chapel.

“I feel blessed to be at San Quentin; it’s a fresh breath of air. I came from a violent prison,” Brumfield said. “This is an amazing prison, and I want you all to embrace that. We need to elevate the desire for peace.”

Darryl “Champ” Hill emceed the event. He set the tone for the day asking 150 staff, volunteers and incarcerated persons to allow “this beautiful day to open minds, relax and enjoy everything each denomination has to say.”

Protestant Chaplain Mardi Ralph Jackson gave the opening prayer. She reminded the praying audience that Jesus glorifies everything in this world.

Chris Scull of the Inmate Advisory Council said, “Peace is more than a feeling. It’s actions of reconciliation.” He continued, “Mediation is a great tool to begin the process. For some it is God. When it was me getting in trouble by my parents, it was my grandmother,” he joked.

Chairman Steve Piscascio and Sergeant at Arms Tommy Wickerd of the Committee for the Day of Peace then taught the crowd the history of the event.

San Quentin created the first Day of Peace 13 years ago.

In 2006, a riot between the Mexican and Black populations occurred just before a scheduled yard event. Several volunteers were headed to the yard event when then-incarcerated (first name)Tong led them away from the riot to safety.

Frustrated, incarcerated leaders of all races came together and went to the administration. The request was to devote one day out of the year to peace and the rehabilitative programs at San Quentin.

“Now, all prisons in California participate because of our original committee,” Piscascio said.

The Rabbi (first name) Sheiffar said the Day of Peace will help us “grow together.” He then asked everyone to open their hearts to create a world more “awake and aware.” He said children of Israel should preserve the ‘righteousness of charity.

“The way to live life is service. We must act with love. Our community calls the Hebrew word for love, ‘al aba’ — which means ‘I give to you,’” said Rabbi Sheiffar.

San Quentin’s Muslim leader, Imam Fasih, reminded everyone, “God is our creator, (and) do not look up to others who have more. “

The Protestant Choir sang (TK), followed by the Catholic choir’s Christmas rendition of “Hallelujah.”

During intermission, No More Tears volunteer Eric Van Kleen noted, “This is a great way to express spirituality to all races, all walks of life.”

Dr. Dianna Kronstadt added, “This is very special for all communities. I was honored to be invited.”

Chaplain Hector Frank talks about his history

Chaplain Hector Frank of Indian Services followed. The nationally renowned spiritual leader, who walked with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Julio Cesar Chavez, talked about a 1,000-year-old prophecy he learned at age 14. (He is now 76).

Chaplain Frank spoke about:

• Prophets he sat with who had known Crazy Horse and Sitting Bull

• Seven generations back to a prayer that included the heaven’s brightest star — the North Star, “was red because…the red road is a spiritual path to peace.”

• The seven original tribes

• The four original colors of men—Red, Black, White and Yellow—depicting all races

• We are older than the Aztecs, Mayans, Olmecs

• We are Temax — People of Peace

• The road to peace did not happen. “We died for it.”

• 150 original medicine people; only two are left

• 1976 was the first sweat lodge in California prisons after the protest at Alcatraz

• He helped establish all sweat lodges in California’s prisons.

“Honor each other’s indifferences, because we all pray — we just use different languages,” said Chaplain Frank.

Incarcerated keynote speaker Michael Adams gave thanks to Lt. (first name) Carlton for the opportunity to represent all incarcerated around the state. The Catholic choirs’ singer quoted St. Francis of Assisi, “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me. Men and women in blue…make peace within so the enemy does not win. Let peace on earth begin with us today.”

The Strobe Ensemble were the featured performers of the day

The Strobe Ensemble performed a piece from Mozart called, “The Oboe Quartet,” in honor of his 276 birthday. They then performed a song called “Water Colors.” The song was designed to visualize colors from Grass Valley’s ponds, and rivers.

Father George Williams spoke about responsibility, accountability forgiveness and self-forgiveness.

“When Christians pray the Lord’s Prayer, we pray for justice and mercy. These are the ingredients for forgiveness,” said Father Williams, who has been serving San Quentin for 17 years.

“We need justice for our offenders and victims, and yes we need places for punishment and for reconciliation/forgiveness; yet, the hardest thing to do is forgive ourselves,” said Father Williams. Reminding the incarcerated and volunteers how blessed they are to be at San Quentin, he asked, “Do all of you know how lucky we are?”

Harpist Christine Tullis pulling emotional strings

The father asked everyone to pray with more introspection, including:

• “Acknowledging San Quentin is proof of rehabilitation because of education, spiritual and volunteer mentors who come as peacemakers.”

• “When we harm others, we must be punished… we should not seek vengeance nor should our punishers…punishment should have clear purpose.”

• Jesus showed disappointment but rejected punishment, revenge and retaliation — by keeping love in spirit.

• Like Jesus, we must return to society whole and heartfelt.

• See Matthew 25 — Jesus, on death row, still asked for mercy and forgiveness for all at the time of his execution.

Leaders from the Buddhist community followed. Incarcerated person (first name) Roach said, “If you love that person so much, even the person that harmed you, I think we can take away from the trend of pain and suffering that we experience every day. Be willing to love.”

Ceremonies ended with prayer from Father Williams. The ceremony continued to in the Catholic Chapel with a harp recital by Christine Tullis.

Tullis, who performed six solos, told the remaining audience she has been playing for 30 years and the harp is “known to be a healing instrument since ancient times.”

This first CDCR sponsored Day of Peace promoted healing throughout the world. Lt. (first name) Carlton hopes the inspirational message will spread outside of San Quentin and that “the Day of Peace could resonate everywhere.”

–Staff Writer Kerry Rudd contributed to this story

Storytellers polish their craft through the San Quentin News Journalism Guild

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Monica Campbell with the Spanish graduating class of 2020

The second annual San Quentin News Journalism Guild Graduation took place in the Garden Chapel on Jan. 17. Twelve graduates from November’s class combined with this current class of 11 to celebrate finishing the six-month course.

The event honored the graduates, recognized advisors and brought attention to the impact of programs like the guild on rehabilitation.

Richard “Bonaru” Richardson, SQ News’ Executive Editor and winner of the Arnulfo T. Garcia Leadership Award, spoke about the importance of the guild.

Having worked every position from print to layout to Editor-in-Chief, Richardson reflected how words began to change his life.

“At my last prison, a guy called me pessimistic, and I wanted to beat him up—even though I really didn’t know what the word meant,” said Richardson.

Inmates across the country can thank Richardson’s curiosity and intellect when he looked the word up and realized his own talent with words.

“Words mean a lot; we communicate with each other; we all have the ability to grow. Our newspaper allows people to grow—and will continue to do so,” said Richardson.

“Our graduates—know you were journalists before you picked up a pen. Remember, if no one tells your story, who will?” Richardson said. “Please use your voice; it’s the most powerful asset (weapon) you have.”

Lisa Adams, the newspaper’s development manager for two years, called her career journey from state and federal prison “empty, until I found my niche helping others.”

Adams is collaborating with Wells Fargo Bank executive Amanda Weitman to generate philanthropic donations for the news agency. “Inside and out, we give the world access to the understanding and awareness of social reform and its impact. This news agency reduces recidivism by giving hope to the incarcerated throughout the nation,” said the philanthropic executive.

Today, San Quentin News is a leading voice for incarcerated people in the country.

San Quentin News’ editor-in-chief, Marcus “Wali” Henderson, remarked upon the journalism program’s capacity to build bridges. “(SQ News and Wall City) journalists tell stories that people are afraid to tell.”

Henderson, who used to chair the Guild, then introduced keynote speaker Tracy Brumfield.

Brumfield has transformed from “a heroin addict in and out of jail and then prison” to founder of a women’s news agency called RISE.

She inspired the crowd, speaking about her addiction, “I’m beating its ass.” For the graduates she said, “The power of words—storytelling—includes talking about our journey. I found it extremely empowering to tell my journey…Write about what you know…your testimony!”

The Department of Juvenile Justice’s Ericka Mutchler celebrated the success of the incarcerated female population in California. Mutchler gave praise to Wall City’s third edition, which featured incarcerated females.

“The women featured on the back page of Wall City were my [juvenile] clients who co-wrote articles for the edition. I am pleased to announce all of them have been released with jobs,” said the counselor.

Henderson introduced former San Francisco prosecutor Marisa Rodriquez after he spoke about the social reform symposiums at San Quentin. The latest forum with the San Francisco Police Department was a “Blue on Blue forum [which] improved communication between law enforcement and incarcerated persons. It [forums] will allow us continue to build bridges that no one else can,” said Henderson.

In 2012, Rodriquez took a suggestion from her father to visit San Quentin.

“Now, I can’t shake this place,” said the former D.A. “It [the visit] was very, very moving, and I didn’t expect that. I shared the experience with my supervisor, San Francisco D.A. George Gascon.” She told Gascon there was something very special happening at San Quentin, and he needed to go in and see what was happening himself, if we are going to change justice.

Gascon’s office then collaborated with the late Arnulfo Garcia to create the first symposium. It focused on San Francisco Community Court prosecutors’ desire to investigate what drives youth to commit crimes.

The symposium was such a success, today the forums are a core of the news outlet’s brand.

Rodriquez said after Police Chief (Del Scott) brought in his team, it led to the creation of the nation’s first Formerly Incarcerated Advisory Board. The board includes San Francisco prosecutors and formerly incarcerated men and women, many of whom had life sentences before being paroled.

CDCR administrators who ensure accuracy and analysis for SQ News include), Terri Hardy, Krissi Khokhobashvili, and Ike Dodson. They received plaques of recognition and said, “No matter what happened in your past, who you are when you come out on the other side is what matters.” Henderson also praised the group of Wall City advisors in attendance. Kate McQueen, Sarah Horowitz, Doug Levy and Dan Fost represented the magazine’s advisory board of 12.

144 graduate from Division of Rehabilitative Programs

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Incarcerated graduates from Rehabilitative Programs program

San Quentin’s gym includes a sign stating “a second chance at a first class life.” One hundred and forty- five incarcerated people celebrated completing the initial step to acquire that second chance on December 18.

One-hundred and forty-five men graduated from recovery and life skills classes designed for transitioning home, allowing men a chance to further their education.

Incarcerated graduates from Substance Use Disorder Treatment program

The graduation was at the Garden Chapel, where 200 people including staff, dignitaries and participating incarcerated took the stage— men in their caps and gowns.

Incarcerated Jose L tearfully asked to get a picture of the graduation, because he “never wore a cap and gown…never” and stated, “I just want to send it to my family…”

CDCR’s Division of Rehabilitative Programs (DRP) designed classes to achieve rehabilitation. Centerpoint, the contract provider, manages the programs for DRP.

Graduation opened with a solo from David Rodriquez and the San Quentin band known as Treasures Out of Darkness.

27 years ago Michael Davila sat where the graduates were. “Now I get to oversee this program,” said Centerpoint’s operations leader.

“I have been on both sides and had to tell myself that I’ll never live like that again. I have a passion to help incarcerated people, so I have worked for several institutions and in the community with parolees,” said the commencement speaker.

“Participants get a sense of completion because we become role models to motivate them. The old way is out as hard love does not work anymore,” said the program manager.

CCIII Collins who hosted the event reinforced graduation by asking all participants to make this a family affair.

“Although we bump heads like real family, remember the program’s creed and treat us as your guests—you sup- port me and I’ll support you,” said the program manager.

Keynote speaker Kenny Davis said have a plan when transitioning home.

The mentor and licensed counselor with San Fran- cisco’s Urban Alchemy dis- cussed the following:

• Experience differences between visits and going home—you deserve it.

• Now, family, friends, partners don’t know you — they will test you.

• I too, changed appear- ance, emotions and feelings in prison.

• The first 60 days relax and enjoy. Get used to free- dom.

• You may need help— ask. An example he used was shopping for toothpaste; in canteen, you have three choices, in a store, you’ll have a whole aisle.

• Things aren’t the same anymore…there’s no Wonder Bread… gone he said to a laughing crowd. “Challenges include relationships, women, finances and keeping the dignity you earned here.

• “If you’re not doing nothing in here you do the same out there. Keep resolve; if you’re weak you will be drug back in here.”

“I got my GED here like some of you– everything I learned here– got my (professional) license at 50; bought a car, paid insurance and drove legally, waiting to be pulled over,” he laughed. “I now come home to my own place in the Sunset district; I signed the lease and have my own mailbox. It’s nothing but a bunch of bills and junk mail, but it’s mine,” said counselor Davis.

Davis continued, “I surprised my parole officer, how well I was living. Now I’m in San Francisco willing to you do the same.”

Retired gang member Davis represented three letters. “Now I represent three new letters, CBT. I am CBT,” he said to a cheering crowd. CBT stands for DRP’s Cognitive Behavioral Therapy program.

Dr. D. Jones, a counselor stated the participants looked like scholars.

“Your families would be so proud of you.” She re- cited a poem she created called “Beautiful Queen.” The poem shows strength of women everywhere and re- minds us “forever she (women) reigns (as) the precious queen.”

Supervisor Michael Nelson introduced Centerpoint’s valedictorian. Nelson said the man pushed supervisors and counselors, yet turned out to be a real sharp young

man, who does a lot around San Quentin. Nelson introduced Mr. Raphael “Nephew” Bankston.

“The program began as milestones for me but five and a half months of ‘family’ changed my purpose. Staff changed my purpose. I realize we need to rewrite our script and shift our purpose,” said the valedictorian.

San Quentin’s DRP Coordinator M. Farez introduced the 144 graduates. From Terry Adams to Gregory Washington, all received diplomas.

Farez said that the key to succeeding in CBT’s program and life are two-fold. “It takes two items for success—the man’s internal decision to excel and support from the program. It’s my job to support that decision,” said Farez.

Participants assessed the program:

“Little Brother” Jimmy Wynn received a date to go home after advice from board officers. They suggested he address anger issues— he recommends the program for all.

“I didn’t realize I had anger issues until the board told me. I addressed ever since I joined CBT.”

Pastor Terrance was Wynn’s counselor.

“Mr. T’s class opened me up because of the information he teaches. Using it daily I am now suitable because I addressed my anger. I will never forget my class or Mr. T,” said Wynn, incarcerated in 2001.

Inmate Gregory Washington said anger management and SUDT (Substance Use Disorder Treatment) gave him tools to figure out his emotions in present time.

“I’m taking everything I learned to the streets,” said Washington, who is to be released in February.

The daylong ceremony included insight from Johnny Whittaker & Director Good- win, who founded the graduate phase of CBT called Offender Mentor Certificate Program (OMCP).

OMCP gives graduates of a chance to become licensed counselors. “Today is a day to hold your head high. We believed you could do it. Be- lieve in yourself. Go beyond yourself,” was the theme by the mentors.

The originator of LTOP (Long Term Offender Program), CCIII Chiu, now at Solano said, “Folks don’t take a look at themselves until they have to. At Solano we stress not keeping what you’ve learned to yourself… teach one to teach five is what we strive for,” said Chiu.

DRP program analysts Heather Bruglia, AmanDeep Kaur , Ruzanna Sargsyan and Leslie Hamilton collectively shared their enthusiasm for the graduation. They said graduation was very inspiring and was a wonderful graduation. The analysts stated it is an exciting time for change in CDCR and saw firsthand from the graduation how amazing and rewarding CBT & SUDT were.

CCIII Collins took over for the recently promoted CCIII Palmer. The new supervisor said his beliefs of the incarcerated person’s achievements and what they completed made him realize the programs made a difference.

“I truly believe in the suc- cess of this program. One of the current provider’s coun- selors was on my caseload several years ago, when I was a CCI….quite frankly, I want that success repeated from this year’s graduates,” said Collins.

Farez added, “After 20 years at San Quentin, I still believe that a man can change—and if that change is genuine and sincere, he will find the assistance to change here. With programs through DRP the likelihood of a suc- cessful change is increased for the returning citizen.”

—Juan Haines contributed to this story

**After this story was written, a bulletin was placed in the resident buildings that stated the following:

• All DRP/Centerpoint programs are closed until further notice

• Statewide changes for 2020 are currently in pro- cess

• Prior waiting lists are no longer valid

• You will only be as- signed thru clinical referrals • Voluntary assignments to programs are no longer in effect
• There is nothing you or

your CCI can affect at this time.

YOUR PATIENCE IS ACCEPTED

San Quentin News will keep you informed as to any additional information it receives.

Archbishop Cordileone holds San Quentin Christmas mass

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God can use prison time to turn someone into the person He wants them to be, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone told a San Quentin audience during a special Christmas Mass.

“Christmas is a time to receive God’s gift of His Son while committing to give back more for Him,” the San Fran- cisco archbishop commented.

Cordileone compared the prison stays of Jesus and Paul to the incarcerated people at- tending. He said while in prison, “God has given us time to grow into what He wants us to be. Take advantage of it.”

Father George Williams, San Quentin’s Catholic chaplain, said, “This year’s celebration had a wonderful spirit that many outside parishes cannot emulate.”

Williams spent 26 years as a priest inside prisons during Christmas. He said the holiday Mass is usually conducted at midnight for Catholics. He gave thanks and appreciation for the archbishop’s assistance in the celebration and praised the work of his choir.

The Mass referred to the Bible’s book of Isaiah, chapter 9, verse one which states, “The people in darkness have seen a great light.”

Father Williams noted the chapel at Christmas was standing room only, which is a “good thing.”

After the Mass, choir member Michael Adams said, “What the light of Christ reveals to you about who you are in your life, and what you will do with this knowledge, will define you as a Christian.”

“In this time of war against the enemy, it is time for all Christians to unite,” added choir singer Adriele Jackson.

Lisa Strawn, who led the Transgender Remembrance Day at SQ in November, commented, “Without Father Williams’ inclusive policy, Remembrance Day for the transgender community does not work. Father Williams did not hesitate to support the community and we are grateful for him and his church’s support. He is a real person of God.”

Incarcerated choir member John Krueger added that Father Williams always includes Protestant Chaplain Mardi Jackson’s congregation next door “in our church’s prayer. We hope and pray our choir can unite with the tremendous Protestant Chapel Choir next year to carol.”

After the choir sang “O come, all ye faithful,” Archbishop Cordileone reminisced about Christmas with a story about commercialism of the holiday outside.

“This time of year is hectic outside. Sales at one store after Thanksgiving included a very low price for a DVD player. The price created a wait at the store before it opened, where long lines created a big rush for the discounted DVD player. A woman who was first to get it was trampled unconscious but still held on to the DVD player…What tenacity!” said the archbishop.

“Why can’t we be that tenacious about God?” he asked.

The archbishop said the Catholic Church believes Christmas is becoming more and more mate- rial. “The real meaning of Christmas is about God giving us our gift of His Son through the Virgin Mary,” he said. It took some 2,000 years to prepare the Jews, Israel and the 12 tribes, he added.

The archbishop referred to David’s victory over King Saul and King David’s affair with Bathsheba. He commented that the biblical stories show that even in times of strife, David never wavered from worshipping the God of Israel — he never committed idolatry.

The message noted Jesus came from the lineage of David to unite His kingdom.

He expressed his desire for all Christians to maintain a silence during prayer and devotion.

The archbishop then dis- cussed current goals of Christians everywhere. “What matters most is if we stay true to God. How do we show truth to GOD?”

His answer: “Walk like His Son; show no idolatry, no pride, no self-doubt in spirituality, no addiction to sins. Stay focused on God by attaining the silence of God through si- lent prayer.”

The gift of God’s son comes with responsibility, said the archbishop. “He wants this gift (of dedication) from us in return.”

Christmas Carols in San Quentin

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San Quentin’s Chaplain Mardi Ralph Jackson and dozens of supporters per- Hall has been in charge of formed live on Dec. 21 at the prison’s 28th Christmas Caroling event. The Chaplain said it was a time of adoration and worship for our Lord’s birth.

Christmas Caroling bring happiness to prisoners inside SQ buildings

Elder Derrick Holloway stated that in a normal year “Mother” Jackson allows more than 90 churches to assist in the spiritual growth of her ministry. Volunteers assist year round—not just at holidays—and are greatly appreciated.

“Through outside leader- ship in Protestant churches throughout the Bay Area we learn more about evangelical sermons, gospel singing and Bible studies. Churches located as far away as Texas help “Mother” Jackson prepare her men for the spiritual warfare we encounter when we go home,” said incarcerated Elder Derrick Holloway.

The evening started with rehearsal after a prayer from Chaplain Jackson. The group was led by Chester Hall from Cornerstone Church in Livermore.

Hall has been in charge of the caroling event the last five years.

Christmas Caroling volunteers and incarcerated inside North Block

“Death Row should believe in God, and we hope they will be able to hear the choir from the rotunda, as we are not allowed inside. No matter what, it’s a blessing, a true high- light of our Christmas. Easily our biggest event of the year,” said Mrs. Hipple.

Before the group began its tour of the prison, one of the Bay Area’s leading gospel singers, Paula Bates, shared the mission of the night. “Hopefully we can plant a seed in men who do not yet believe, and they may ask, what must I do to be saved?”

Her operatic voice enables others to hear the miracles from the group. “It’s truly a blessing to share the Christmas Spirit and celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ….It is all about Jesus,” said Ms. Bates.

Another leader in vocals, Jessica from First Church in Livermore, added, “The blessing to be with others who believe and who are

God’s people—while showing unconditional love for those in need—is the real miracle.”

The choir left Garden Chapel and circled outside the pavilion that is in the center of the Captain’s Porch, the main entrance, four post and the AC Center to begin their performance.

Lt. Sam Robinson and some of his staff escorted the performers around the prison. “This is an annual event I take in before I enjoy my Christmas. This choir changes men’s hearts,” said the lieutenant.

The group headed to North Block where Pastor Linda Lopes from Valley Christian Church said, “This breaks my heart. As a mother and grand- mother, I believe men should not have to live like this…but Jesus loves.”

At North Block, men stopped watching the For- ty-Niners’ victory over the Rams to enjoy Christmas songs like “Silent Night,” “Joy to the World” and “O Come, All Ye Faithful.”

“It’s amazing, bitter catcalls turned into a spiritual silence I have never observed,” said incarcerated person Kevin Kelly. The choir left the first tier to cheers by the incarcerated.

Similar songs on the yard side of North Block, at the rotunda of Death Row, and at the stairwell of Alpine, Badger and the Hole in West Block allowed men to hear carols.

Group leaders like Mr. Allen Roberts, who has been serving the Neighborhood Baptist Church in San Francisco for 37 years, said, “I still come here to get blessed while I carol.”

Minister Randy Fishback from Hillside Church in Walnut Creek added, “I’ve been doing this for five years, and it is still my favorite event of the year. We all receive so much from the men.”

The Kurtz family came to celebrate Christmas with the congregation. “We feel blessed to participate with all of you and get so much in return. It’s truly God’s will and totally amazing,” said husband Brian Kurtz, wife Laura, daughter Naomi and son Dakota.

An alarm at North Block stopped a second attempt to sing to Death Row so the group improvised and sang in front of the hospital. Their hope was the sick would be able to hear as they saluted the support of Lt. Robinson and his staff.

Pastor Tom Phan of Open Arms Church said, “Mother Jackson has the greatest ministry, and we are proud to help this chapel in any way as we pray everyone lives through Jesus!”

Minister Leslie Arroyo of From the Well Ministries, a caroler for years, summed up the night. “To all of us this is an opportunity to reach other people’s hearts for Jesus. Whether we fight, lie, or no matter what sin we have done, we all must know he forgives.”

Singing continued Sunday night when more than 300 men and women participated in a candlelight vigil declaring Jesus’ love.

“Christmas lives at San Quentin’s Garden Chapel,” said incarcerated church member Sergio Alvarez. “By bringing the Spirit of God to the cell blocks we give hope. It was an honor to serve. Merry Christmas to all.”

“I have been participating since 1988, and through Garden Chapel we consider ourselves all blessed to give hope and comfort to men that cannot be with their families,” said the director of the evening’s choir.

Before the choir walked around the cell blocks, SQ News Advisor John Ea- gan gave insight as to what the night meant. Eagan has performed in the event as a member of the Tiburon Baptist Church. He has been doing so for 28 years.

He asks the incarcerated men one question. “I always ask, when did someone say they are proud of you? Invariably the answer is never,” said Eagan.

Kaylyn Hipple, wife of Minister George Hipple, has been caroling at the event for 20 years. She remembered the original organizer, Sam Huron of Man-to-Man Ministries.

Xóa Đi Chủng Tộc Trong Hồ Sơ

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Tác Giả: Anthony Manuel Caravalho
Hội Đoàn Tác Giả Nhà Báo

Dùng công nghệ để xóa bỏ tài liệu chủng tộc từ báo cáo của cảnh sát trước khi công tố viên quyết định buộc tội có lẽ sẽ giảm sự chênh lệch chủng tộc trong hệ thống công lý của Mỹ, San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon tường thuật.

Gascon dùng sự giúp đỡ của các kỹ sư máy vi tính từ trường đại học Standford để nghĩ ra một chương trình dùng để che giấu sự phân loại chủng tộc từ báo cáo của cảnh sát.

“Nếu chúng ta có thể loại bỏ thành kiến về chủng tộc, chúng ta có thể trở thành một quốc gia tốt hơn,” Gascon nói trong một cuộc phỏng vấn với tờ báo San Francisco Chroni- cle đăng ngày 13 tháng 6.

Công cụ “buộc tội không phân biệt” được nghĩ ra bởi

Standford’s Computational Policy Lab.

“Khi tôi mới trở thành quan chủ khống, tôi quan tâm về việc hệ thống công lý ảnh hưởng thiếu cân đối với người da màu,” Gascon giải thích.

Gascon chú ý đến sự bất bình đẳng chủng tộc khi việc này ảnh hưởng đến hệ thống công lý của tiểu bang Cali và đưa ra thống kê chứng minh rằng người da đen và người da nâu tiếp tục bị bắt và buộc tội nhiều hơn là người da trắng.

Một nghiên cứu bởi Public Policy Institute of California trong năm 2016 cho thấy rằng số người bị bắt giữ là 41% da nâu, 36% da trắng, và 16% da đen. Người da đen chỉ chiếm 6% tổng dân số.

Một cuộc nghiên cứu khác từ năm 2008 đến 2014 cho thấy rằng so sánh với toàn tiểu bang thì sự bất cân bằng chủng tộc ở San Francisco thì lớn hơn nhiều. Cuộc nghiên cứu cho thấy rằng người da đen chiếm 6% tổng dân số, nhưng lại chiếm đến 41% số người bị bắt giữ.

Cuộc nghiên cứu trên được thực hiện bởi đại học Berkeley và đại học Pennsyl- vania.

Thủ tục buộc tội của San Francisco hiện tại có ý định

giảm đến mức tối thiểu thành kiến của đội điều tra. Họ không khám xét hình ảnh hoặc phim ảnh tiết lộ chủng tộc của bị cáo.

Đến khi chính thức buộc tội, một đội công tố viên độc lập sẽ kiểm tra lại nếu có bằng chứng cụ thể để tiến tới.

Gascon nói rằng công nghệ mới này có thể dùng trong toàn quốc.

Công nghệ trí khôn nhân tạo sẽ tổ chức báo cáo của cảnh sát và tự động xóa đi chủng tộc của những người liên quan. Nó cũng sẽ xóa đi tên của những người liên quan kể cả cảnh sát, nhân chứng, và can phạm trong khi giấu đi địa chỉ hoặc là địa điểm mà có thể ngụ ý chủng tộc của can phạm trước khi

văn phòng quan chủ khống xét lại.

Quan chủ khống nói rằng văn phòng ông ta sẽ dùng công cụ mới này vào khoảng 80% cho những vụ án mới. Những vụ án như là giết người hoặc là có liên quan đến vũ lực thì sẽ không được dùng ngay lúc này.

Văn phòng của San Fran- cisco Public Defender từ chối bình luận.

Từ năm 2016, quan chủ khống cũng đã tìm cách giải quyết mau việc xóa đi hơn 9,000 vụ án có liên quan đến cần sa.

Gascon đã tuyên bố rằng ông ta sẽ không ứng cử khi nhiệm kỳ kết thúc cuối năm này.

—Dịch giả-Hiếu Thái

Call to action for renewed faith during October Revival Week

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San Quentin Protestant chaplain, “Mother” Mardis Ralph Jackson, and some of the member leaders, took time to discuss the church’s Revival Week, which was celebrated during the third week of October.

Revival Week is celebrated with weeklong services from Wednesday through Sunday. It featured the chaplain, Elder Derrick Holloway, Pastor Harry Hemphill and outside members of the Protestant faith which included Deacon “LT” who brought key members of his congregation from The Church of I Sit at theTable located in Houston, Texas. He opened the weeklong celebration.

The beginning of Revival Week, sought a spiritual breakthrough as Pastor “LT” demanded that all Christians “have to die (death=surrender to god) and we must shed light into a dark environment of today’s non-believing world,” said the preacher.

“We do this by sharing the love of Christ and celebrating the fact when you lose (give up sin or fleshly desires) you gain God,” he continued.

The rest of the week ended as strong as it started. Pastor Harry Hemphill paved the way for Mother Jackson, who then was followed by the church’s Elder Derrick Holloway.

Pastor Harry Hemphill enjoyed his last revival week when he led the Saturday night service.

It was his last service preaching as an incarcerated man. “Pastor Harry” was scheduled to go home on Monday Nov. 4, after he received a date from the Board of Parole.

Pastor Hemphill emphasized the season’s instruction of change was designed to give eternal hope of a new life and love to all.

“Young Christians must understand death through the acceptance of Christ’s resurrection—that he died for all of us—this is the only way to be saved. Once truly believed, they will not be afraid to shed their sinful ways,” said Pastor Hemphill.

Sunday morning the anchor of Bay Area Protestants and chaplain here at San Quentin, “Mother” Mardis Ralph Jackson, stayed within the core theme of the week. “Christ blew the trumpet in Zion to save all men through redemption,” said Chaplain Jackson.

“We must hear the trumpet of God and receive His redemption for us by dying, knowing losing our sinful desires is our victory.” Mother Jackson continued, “We must send out this calling to all Christians and pray they receive the call to action.”

Elder Holloway finished the weeklong service with some passionate callings. His Sunday night sermon demanded Christians take accountability.

“How can you say you are too tired or too busy to attend and participate in Christ when our leader, “Mother” Jackson, lives away from her husband and family to guide us, and commutes to Pasadena, California, on a train 12 hours each way to give us God’s gifts?”

“She never complains or makes excuses, so there are no excuses for the Men in Blue; you must come to God,” stated the second in command at Garden Chapel.

 Kevin “Boston” Kelly, an aspiring Protestant evangelist, has never missed a service in two years. He personally described his definition of the week, saying Revival Week is designed to renew our faith.

“It’s a call to acknowledge spiritual warfare is continuous and it is not a joke,” said the man who has just reconnected with his daughter after two years.

He continued, “Revival Week is a reminder not to fall back on the gifts God gives us. You must eat it (the word) and love it.”

Passionately the young Christian supports Deacon “LT’s” demand to die (surrender) for God.

CÔNG LÝ CHÊNH LỆCH DO THIẾU TÀI CHÁNH

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Ứng cử viên tổng thống Kamala Harris vừa đề trình một đạo luật để giải quyết những lợi thế không công bằng mà công tố viên có trên luật sư công cộng.

Tháng Năm vừa qua, cựu bộ trưởng tư pháp của Cali đã đề xuống một đạo luật “Equal Defense Act” để đảm bảo quyền được bảo vệ trước pháp lý. Đạo luật này sẽ phân phối $250 triệu tiền trợ cấp của liên bang để khuyến khích mức lượng công bằng giữa luật sư công và công tố viên, và giảm bớt số lượng hồ sơ của luật sư công.

Theo dự án cải cách hình luật của ACLU, tối cao pháp viện đã xác định 50 năm trước rằng, “trong hệ thống pháp lý, người bị mang ra tòa mà không có tiền mướn luật sư thì không thể đảm bảo được sự xét xử công bằng trừ trường hợp người đó được cung cấp một luật sư.” Hai mươi năm sau lại xác định thêm rằng không phải luật sư nào cũng được, những người đó phải được biện hộ hữu hiệu.

Kanya Bennett và Ezekiel Edwards, cả hai của ACLU, trích dẫn cơ quan luật sư công ở Fresno là một ví dụ rõ ràng về vấn đề hồ sơ chồng chất do thiếu tiền trợ cấp gây ra.

Họ nói rằng theo luật liên bang, số lượng hồ sơ cho luật sư công không quá 400 hồ sơ đại hình và 150 hồ sơ tiểu hình. Hiện tại Fresno đang xử lý ít nhất là 418 đại hình và 1,375 tiểu hình mỗi năm, theo thống kê của ACLU soạn thảo.

Vớisốlượnghồsơđóvà 198 ngày tòa làm việc, mỗi luật sư công phải đóng 9 hồ sơ trong 6.5 giờ mỗi ngày.

Tại thành phố Orleans Parish ở tiểu bang Louisi- ana, ngân quỷ thiếu hụt đã ép buộc luật sư công bỏ những bị cáo nghèo lên danh sách để đợi luật sư khác đại diện.

Hiện tại trong nước đang chi tiêu $250 tỉ cho công lý tội phạm nhưng chỉ phân cấp $5 tỉ, hoặc 2.5%, để bênh vực bị cáo.

Đạo luật của thượng nghị sĩ Harris chỉ tăng lên 0.125% của tổng số ngân quỷ.

Access to Justice Office, thành lập bởi bộ tư pháp vào năm 2010, là một chương trình nêu lên những vi phạm

của “quyền được luật sư” đã được đảm bảo trong hiến pháp. Phương châm của cơ quan này là “giúp hệ thống công lý đem lại những kết quả công bằng cho mọi người, bất luận sang giàu hay địa vị.”

Chương trình này được tài trợ đến 2021, nhưng bị chính quyền của tổng thống Trump đóng cửa.

Pew Research và chánh án khu vực New York, Jed Raykoff, ước tính từ 2% đến8%tùnhânbịkếtánsai lầm. Trên toàn nước Mỹ, con số này được ước tính quá 600,000.

ACLU đi đến kết luận này: “Nước Mỹ bỏ tù hơn 2 triệu người. Nếu những người có thu nhập thấp bị dính dáng vào hệ thống pháp lý mà không có sự bênh vực nhiệt tâm, họ sẽ tiếp tục bị bỏ tù nhiều hơn và quyền pháp lý cũng bị tước đoạt. Nếu không có một hệ thống luật sư công hoạt động bình thường, chúng ta không thể giảm bớt con số khổng lồ của những người đang bị giam cầm chờ ra tòa, những kết án sai lầm, hoặc những lạm dụng trong quyền truy tố.

— Dịch giả: Dũng Trần

Addressing racial bias in the criminal justice system

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Removing racial information from police reports could reduce disproportionality

Using technology to remove racial information from police reports before prosecutors decide to file charges should reduce racial disparities in America’s justice system, former San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon says.

Gascon enlisted the aid of Stanford University computer programmers to devise an algorithm that disguises racial identities in the initial review of police reports.

“If we can take racial bias out of our system or reduce it significantly, we can be a much better nation,” Gascon said in an interview with the San Francisco Chronicle published June 13,

The “blind charging” tool was devised by Stanford’s Computational Policy Lab.

“When I first became district attorney, one concern was to understand how the criminal justice system impacts people of color disproportionately,” Gascon explained. “When I first became district attorney, one concern was to understand how the criminal justice system impacts people of color disproportionately,”

Gascon noted vast racial inequalities as they impact California’s criminal justice system and provided statistical data that demonstrates Blacks and Latinos continue to be arrested and criminally charged more frequently than Whites.

A 2016 study by the Public Policy Institute of California showed Latinos made up 41% of arrestees, Whites made up 36% of arrestees and Blacks made up 16% of arrestees. Blacks made up but 6% of the population.

A second study conducted between 2008 and 2014 revealed San Francisco’s disparity as a far greater chasm in racial divides than overall state findings. The study showed in San Francisco alone Blacks accounted for 41% of people arrested, but 6% of the population.

The second study was conducted jointly by UC Berkeley and the University of Pennsylvania.

San Francisco’s current prosecutorial procedures after arrest are intended to minimize bias of the prosecution’s initial investigatory team. They do not examine evidence such as pictures or videos that would reveal a person’s race.

Upon recommendation to formalize charges, a second independent team of prosecutors verify if the evidence is substantial enough to move forward.

Gascon said the new technology could be used around the country.

The artificial intelligent technology will organize police reports and automatically redact the race of the parties involved. It will also scrub names of all parties involved including police, witnesses and suspects while hiding addresses, locations and neighborhoods that could imply a person’s race before it is reviewed by the district attorney’s office.

The district attorney said his office will implement the new tool in an estimated 80% of new general intake cases. Cases like homicide, domestic violence and other specialized units will not immediately use it.

The San Francisco Public Defender’s Office declined comment “until we can learn more,” an unidentified spokeswoman said. Amos Brown of the NAACP’s San Francisco branch said, “We don’t know anything about this.”

Since 2016 the district attorney has also sought to expedite the expungement of over 9,000 marijuana-related cases by partnering with Code for America.

Gascon has announced he will not seek reelection when his term expires at the end of the year.

A 2016 study by the Public Policy Institute of California showed Latinos made up 41% of arrestees, Whites made up 36% of arrestees and Blacks made up 16% of arrestees. Blacks made up but 6% of the population.

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