San Quentin News

Written By Incarcerated - Advancing Social Justice

New reentry group – API RISE – in Los Angeles

by

Photo courtesy of Duc Ta
Duc Ta and Paul Jung

A nonprofit organization in Los Angeles is pioneering ways to help formerly incarcerated Asian Pacific Islanders (APIs) resettle and reconnect back to their communities.

https://www.api-rise.org/

“There’s a taboo for APIs who were and are incarcerated,” said Duc Ta, formerly incarcerated youth offender, professional chef and co-founder of API RISE.

“My own parents didn’t understand the work that I was doing with API RISE, but I felt compelled by my passion to provide a platform for people coming home. So I can relate on a very personal level to the cultural shame around individuals who were incarcerated.”

The passion to provide social support for system-impacted APIs is what draws community supporters, advocates and the formerly incarcerated to the organization.

“My brother was incarcerated in the late ’90s, and his incarceration inspired me to pursue a law degree,” said Paul Jung, a lawyer and co-founder of API RISE.

“I know the power of providing a social safety net that offers returning citizens a place to feel like home … a place to reconnect, to build camaraderie and to celebrate life. My brother is a living testament to the power and success of API RISE.

“My brother paroled in 2018 after serving 21 years. He is now working as a licensed electrician and volunteering his time to give back to API RISE, so others who are following behind him can be given the same opportunities for success that he has enjoyed.”

API RISE was founded in 2015 by community members Paul Jung, Traci Isihigo and two formerly incarcerated APIs, Duc Ta and David Kupihea.
Before Covid-19, the organization held monthly meetings in a church located south of downtown Los Angeles.

“A big part of our group is to socialize, host healing circles discussing forgiveness, and things members are struggling with,” said Ta. “We also host cooking classes, guest speakers and other fun events for our members.”
Since Covid-19, API RISE continues its work by hosting bi-weekly meetings on Zoom to check in with members and come up with ideas to provide mutual aid.

“We want the API brothers and sisters who are sitting behind bars serving 5, 10, 15 years or even longer to know we are here for them. If you need support letters, jobs and other resources before paroling, write to us,” said Ta.

Are you paroling to Southern California and in need of resources, assistance, support letters and job referrals? Contact our organization, API RISE, we are a non-profit organization based in Los Angeles founded by formerly incarcerated individuals with the support of community members.

Write to us:
API RISE
P.O. Box 53664, Los Angeles, CA 90053

Connect with us:
apirise@gmail.com / facebook: API RISE Los Angeles / Instagram: api_rise

Our goal is to build an actively engaged and involved Asian Pacific Islanders (API) community of API inmates, formerly incarcerated individuals, at-risk youth, families, allies, and supporters. To educate our community around issues of how the criminal, legal and prison systems impact APIs and to organize around the needs of currently and formerly incarcerated community members.

https://www.api-rise.org/

RESOURCES: The Walls to Bridges Project is Free and open to all incarcerated persons

by

Walls To Bridges Project

Parents, Grandparents, Godparents, Siblings, Uncles & Aunts

Whatever your relationship, we’re here to help you stay connected to your family during this time.

We’ll mail the child (any age up to 18) an age- appropriate book with a note that says it is from you.

There is no limit per person. If there is more than one child, each of them will get a book.

This program is operates while supplies are available.

There are two options to sign up:
Send a letter to us, including your name, relationship to the child, and the contact information for the guardian or caregiver of the child
(phone number and/or email address). Do NOT send us their mailing address.

We will reach out to them and facilitate mailing the book.
In your letter, let us know what kind of book you think the child will like or any other thoughts you have.

OR

Ask the guardian or caregiver of the child send us an email at wallstobridges@gmail.com
WALLS TO BRIDGES PROGRAM
C/O CRC OF SANTA CRUZ
614 OCEAN STREET
SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060
DON’T WANT TO OR CAN’T PARTICIPATE? SEND US A LETTER ANYWAY! LET US KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS ON WHAT FAMILY MEANS TO YOU

http://www.wallstobridgesproject.org/

Reform Alliance donating 100,000 masks to prisons to combat COVID

by

Reform Alliance has a goal of donating 100,000 masks to prisons to aid in combating the COVID-19 virus.

Shaka Senghor of Reform Alliance received an anonymous $100,000 donation, said Jessica Jackson, chief advocacy officer. The organization used this money to buy personal protective equipment.

“We partnered with Shaka Senghor — who spent 19 years in prison and wrote a memoir about his life — who was able to find us an anonymous donor who donated $100,000 to buy masks,” said Jackson.

Reform Alliance was founded in 2019 by celebrities and business leaders, according to CNBC on April 3. Among its members are musicians Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter and Meek Mills. Meek was once arrested on drug charges.
Another member is Van Jones, who served in President Obama’s administration. Jones helped pass the First Step Act. Other members of the group are notables such as Robert Kraft, owner of the New England Patriots; Robert Smith, CEO of Vista Equity, and Dan Loeb, CEO of Third Point. This group helps as advocates for granting clemency and reforming penal codes and probation.

Of the purchased masks, 40,000 were delivered to the Tennessee Department of Corrections and 5,000 were delivered to Mississippi State Penitentiary.

New York’s Rikers Island will receive 50,000 masks. Rikers Island usually houses around 5,000 to 6,000 incarcerated people and there are at least 200 documented cases of COVID-19.

Senghor is a consulting producer for the Oprah Winfrey Network program titled “Released.”

He visited San Quentin in November 2017, where he said he wanted to collaborate with men in prison, according to a San Quentin News article.
The documentary “Released” follows Kevin Carr and Sam Johnson, who were both paroled from San Quentin. The show illustrates how they are transitioning into society.

Senghor had spent 19 years in a Michigan prison.

Both Senghor and the attorney/author of The New Jim Crow, Michelle Alexander, have spoken at the Ella Baker Center in Oakland. Senghor also met President Obama.

Peace movement takes root in all 36 California prisons

by

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

by

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.

CDCR leader and others seek prison reform answers in Norway

by

Secretary Diaz calls for a sense of urgency for prison reforms

CDCR Secretary Ralph Diaz (back row, 5th from right) and formerly incarcerated Adnan Khan (in center)

As they covered 5,000 miles and an ocean on an international flight on Sept. 14, CDCR Secretary, Ralph Diaz and Connie Gipson had plenty of time to consider their doubts.

“It won’t work here.”

“California is too big, too violent and plagued by prison gangs.”

Those thoughts soon gave way to excited optimism, as the pair, CDCR’s Secretary and Division of Adult Institutions (DAI) Director, bonded with senior staff from the governor’s office, formerly incarcerated people, peace officer union representatives and criminal justice advocates in a life-changing environment across the globe.

Over six days, Diaz and Gipson toured Norwegian prisons, training facilities and reentry programs, witnessing famed humanistic practices that deliver wellness, safety and empowerment to everyone involved.

The trip, funded by philanthropic programs and organized by an ambitious visionary at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), made significant impact on CDCR leadership. “The world shrunk,” Diaz explained. “I saw staff and inmates engaging in a very positive way, as if the environment belonged to all of them, not just inmates or staff.

“At that moment I saw aspects of this that can be done.”

The team

Diaz and Gipson were joined by California Men’s Colony. Warden Josie Gastelo and Salinas Valley State Prison Warden Matthew Atchley and Captain Edward Brown. Governor Newsom [sent] representatives Daniel Seeman, Deputy Cabinet Secretary, and Kelli Evans, Deputy Legal Affairs Secretary for Criminal Justice in the Office of the Governor.

Other attendees included formerly incarcerated advocates Adnan Khan (Co-Founder of Re:Store Justice) and Sam Lewis (Executive Director of the Anti-Recidivism Coalition), or representatives from the California Correctional Peace Officers Association.

“I think it was the right people in the room, and what was so fascinating was that we all came to our discoveries throughout the week,” Gipson said. “It was really beneficial to have so many different perspectives going through the same experience.”

“We chose Norway because they have a very public health approach to corrections. They say that people go to court to get punished and go to prison to become better neighbors,” said Williams. “Every single policy/procedure and contact with a program is seen as an opportunity to bring health and well-being to people who are incarcerated, and simultaneously this gives staff and correctional officers the opportunity to change people’s lives for the better.”

To make the trip happen, Amend partnered with the community-based nonprofit organization Smart Justice to raise philanthropic funds. The biggest contributors included The Jacob and Valeria Langeloth Foundation and the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Foundation.

Advocates for all

In Norway, the only human right an incarcerated person loses is liberty. The system, including architecture and habitat, is designed to mimic the community those citizens will return to. Interactions with staff are specifically structured to champion wellness and safety.

“I believe we have segments of what is happening in Norway going on in our institutions,” Diaz said. “We have to line it up, put it on paper and give employees the permission to care about the inmate population and remind them that rehabilitation has been a part of their job since the day they signed up.”

There are clear benefits to the normalcy of the environment for staff as well as inmates. Williams said initial reports from Norway show health and life expectancy metrics for correctional staff mirror the outcomes of other citizens. She pointed to research in California that has highlighted a public health crisis among correctional employees, who are more prone to depression, suicide and poor life expectancy.

Khan, whose work at Re:Store Justice brings victims and offenders together for dialogue and forgiveness, said, “My advocacy has always been about crime survivors, bringing them in to prison, and currently/formerly incarcerated people, but when Brie talked about suicides and life expectancy of staff — that bothered me. I had to reevaluate my advocacy. Am I choosing to be the leader of a specific demographic of justice reform or an advocate for public health and humanity? Human rights and public health advocacy has to include correctional officers that are suffering and in pain.”

How Norway changed

Norway’s prison model, thriving at a reported recidivism rate of 20%, wasn’t built overnight. Advocates point to demands by the Norwegian Parliament that authorized a shift to rehabilitation and humanistic practices in the late 1990s.

Over time, accompanied by changes in sentencing laws, massive changes to all aspects of the correctional system began to take hold.

Those changes go far beyond the supportive housing units with private restrooms, couches, stocked kitchen units or even small forests in recreational yards that keep offenders connected to the world around them.

Officers interact warmly and respectfully on a first-name basis with incarcerated people and are trained much longer—two years versus CDCR’s 13-week Basic Correctional Officer Academy. They are schooled on psychology, criminology, human rights and ethics. The process includes a lot of perspective shifts, like placing an officer in the role of an offender and experiencing different custodial tactics.

“I always look at experiences, trainings with an open mind, but I admit, I was pretty apprehensive about this,” Gipson said. “Early on I felt like this was too good to be true, but the more I started to listen to their concepts and principles of normality, humanity, the more I bought in. Everything clicked, and I was just blown away. I came back excited because I feel there are a lot of possibilities for us.”

CDCR and CCPOA leaders at Norwegian prison

The California way

A theme understood by trip-goers and emphasized by Norwegian officials is the practicality of change.

Norway didn’t evolve into a better form of correctional care immediately, and uprooting the same system and dropping it into a vastly different population is not the solution for California.

“We are not trying to make it the Norway way or the European way but the California way,” Diaz said. “We are a unique, diverse populace with cultures within cultures, but that doesn’t mean we can’t make necessary changes.”

“We just have to make it the California way. That doesn’t mean saying no to security but yes to a different way of doing business that improves the workplace and makes a better life for people returning to our communities,” he added.

Diaz said he looks forward to collaborating with other states that strive for similar innovation and emphasized the importance of supporting an environment that both acknowledges the suffering of crime victims and delivers on a promise to create fewer victims in the future.

He joined Gipson in a presentation to CDCR wardens across the state on Nov. 6, highlighting the most impactful concepts and practices that simultaneously promote wellness, safety and rehabilitation.

“We have to look at our historic policies and ask ourselves about each one: Why? Is it humane?” Diaz said. “As policy makers it is our job to change policies and explain why, because in the end we have to create a more humane prison system.”

The insight inspires action.

“My first step is getting a workgroup together to look at what policies and procedures we have in play that escalate vs. de-escalate,” Gipson said. “I also want to look at our training and talk about giving staff the comfort to manage situations within their authority without fear of making a mistake.”

“My big takeaway is a sense of urgency to make these necessary reforms because we have witnessed positive impact for all those involved in a correctional setting and for those returned to communities,” Diaz said. “I know what can be done. I know the department’s abilities and the ability of staff to get things done.”

That’s the California way.

Donovan Correctional Facility becomes first American Prison to break ground on restorative justice

by

By Shawn Khalifa, Contributor Writer

Sunday Morning Fellowship gathering together for healing

History was made and we were there. It was the first Restorative Justice Fair held inside an American prison.

The three-day August fair opened inside the Facility-E Gymnasium at R.J. Donovan Correctional Facility. One hundred chairs formed the foundation of a connecting circle. Brahmankyrie, a Restorative Justice super-supporter, gave her opening salvo on her BOSE speaker system.

“Welcome!,” she greeted the participants. The overstuffed gym, with tight security, had a long line of residents hoping to enter but they were turned away due to overcrowding. All those within the connection circle were invited to a grounding exercise that involved deep breathing and placing feet flat on the floor—each inhale bringing up positive energy and love from the planet that sustains us, while exhaling negative energy into the core of the earth. “Did you feel it?,” asked the leader

District Attorney Khemal Johnson-Williams came into the prison in the name of Restorative Justice. D.A. Johnson-Williams walked around the entire circle shaking hands and saying his name.

He then joined the circle and passed around questions such as “What can another person do to make you feel valued?” Speaking beads and a microphone were passed around so that all could be heard. Fully participating, D.A. Johnson-Williams transformed from district attorney to a victim of crime. He shared that four of his close family members and a best friend had been tragically murdered. “How do you honor those that you have lost?,” was another question the DA passed around.

“My definition of living amends is not being willing to compromise with criminal behavior due to a changed belief system,”

Dr. Andrea Travers, of VOEG (Victim Offenders Education Group), held a remorse-processing workshop in the prison visiting room.

Brahmankyrie enjoying the day inside prison

“The event made such a strong impact on me because it dealt with remorse, something I have had a hard time dealing with,” said participant Aurelio Martin Sepulveda. “The manner in which the process was explained was very insightful. I was able to relate to everybody present in one way or another. I am grateful to learn from that experience.”

From a stage in the middle of the yard, performers spoke about “giving living amends” during their performances.

“My definition of living amends is not being willing to compromise with any form of criminal behavior due to a changed belief system,” said Melvin Price, a participant performer.

Anon Jon Alexander added, “In sharing our talents with fellow, alongside free staff and visitors, Echo Yard is opening a portal of positive reinforcement, which in turn expedites rehabilitative reintegration back to society.”

Alexander performed “Chrysalis” a song about metamorphosis.

“Because from prisoner to president, we all have the same 24 hours to be used constructively,” said Alexander. “When invested into such creative expression, it is also less likely to get sucked into negative politics or tribalism/violence.”

On Booth Day, thirteen canopies were arranged in a “U” formation facing the stage. Purple decorations were on display (purple being the signifying color for domestic violence awareness). Under the canopies were 26 Arts-In-Corrections programs, peer-to-peer groups, Southwestern College, Mental Health, The Brahman Project, Eastlake Church, and several other service providers.

The fair atmosphere picked up when the booths opened and the stage lineup was in full swing. Bill Brown, of the Prison Yoga Project, got everybody grounded with early morning chair yoga. Romero and Rose followed with a native flute song and rattle. With the relaxing energy established, Essie Mae Horne stepped on stage to share with the crowd her loss. The participants provided a healing ear and were honored by the privilege of being able to hear her story.

District attorney Marissa Bejarano, also came to the prison to talk with its residents. She spoke about the effects of sex trafficking on the victims. It is rare, if not unheard of, for a district attorney to visit the prison to share but Facility-E received two. A moment of silence was also held for the victims of shootings throughout the United States.

Raquel Funches, of Southwestern College, https://www.swccd.edu/ was available to assist, motivate and interact with the facility’s large college student population at their booth. The booths were staffed with a combination of residents and service providers. Funches’ support and generous effort to instill “No Violence” into the culture at this facility will never be forgotten. She is a driving force of Restorative Justice.

“It was an empowering experience to witness,” said Funches. I’m fortunate to have had the opportunity to be included in the residents’ rehabilitative efforts.”

Raquel shared her booth with Tanya, another proud advocate for Restorative Justice, and Patrice, the Director of Southwestern College’s Restorative Justice Program. Another strong voice in the community was the head of the Alternative to Violence Program (AVP), Shandreka, who kindly postponed the AVP class to allow herself, facilitators and students to get the most out of the weekend.

Devaki sending prayers and blessings to everyone

The biggest impact was felt off-stage in the facility’s Multi-Faith Room. One by one, residents read their remorse letters to women who had suffered from abuse. Then a purple friendship bracelet was placed on their wrist.

“We all came together in the spirit of Restorative Justice, and remorse,” said Ryan Grider. “This was the most powerful room I’ve been in during my 17 years of incarceration.”

“An overwhelming feeling of remorse, and surrender filled my heart. For offenders and victims of crime to come together to heal, it speaks volumes of the real work it takes to restore justice. I am so grateful that I had the privilege to be part of this powerful process,” Grider continued.

The fair weekend ended as it began with Brahmankyrie in a jam-packed gymnasium practicing a Satsang meditation of forgiveness. The canopies came down for the last time. The message of connection, love and healing rang throughout the event.

“These three days of the fair were the best days of my life,” said Ruben Radillo, E-yard resident.

Starlight Peace Project– #NoViolence

This article was edited for length and according to the AP style

SQ Hosts 13th Annual Brothers in Pen Public Reading

by

Micheal Cooke, Joe Krauter, Lawrence “Udukobraye” Pela, Emile DeWeaver, Jimmy Carlin, Zoe Mullery, J.B. Wells and Troy Williams

Zoe Mullery has listened to thousands of stories inside San Quentin since 1999. She facilitates a weekly creative writing class for about two dozen men.

Mullery’s small frame is a big presence on the prison compound as she’s watched several men from her writing class make parole and continue writing.

“I do it because I love the power of stories. I think storytelling is what people are made of, their creation,” said Mullery as members of the Brothers in Pen held their 13th Annual Public Reading, on Feb.1.

Mullery has been volunteering at San Quentin for 21 years and says she’ll continue working with the program’s sponsor, The William James Association. She said that it satisfies her to see people leave and live better lives. It’s like a happy ending but not so much an ending, she said.

Beaming proudly while standing in the prison’s Catholic Chapel, Mullery opened the show with a warm poem titled, “Let These Words.” Then she introduced the writers who had paroled and returned: Emile Deweaver, Troy Williams, Micheal (Yahya) Cooke, Jimmy Carlin, Lawrence “Udukobraye” Pela and Joe Krauter, who read what he’d written while still incarcerated: “Glasses.”

All of the returning writers were adorned in their street clothes.

“I’m so happy that all this is happening,” said Mullery. “It takes details to pull this off and get everyone in the room together. I’ve seen some beautiful reunions.”

Pela told the men in blue, “People are jealous of what we have. They want our look and our life, our look of freedom. So guys, hurry up and do what you have to do to make it out.”

More than 70 outside guests, many their first time inside a prison, mingled with the men in blue.

“I met some interesting people,” said Lily Rachles. “I’m excited to be welcomed into this community, and I look forward to coming back.”

Rachles attended the event with her stepmother, science book writer Mary Roach. Rachles said “A Paradoxical Situation,” written by Charles Daron, was inspirational.

The editor of Prison Focus Magazine and News Paper, Kim Pollak, was also in the prison for the first time. She knows Mullery, and she asked, “Why aren’t these types of programs in every prison, and why are people with so much beautiful talent in prison in the first place? The raw truth what they share is phenomenal. It’s so unique and come from a different place.”

Emcee George “Mesro” Coles introduced each performer:

Charles Talib Brooks read, “13 Bars.” The audience remained quiet as he read about what 13 bars meant to prisoners, as told by the character, Omar. The crowd was enlightened and chuckled hearing things like, There are 13 bars on a cell door, and there are 13 steps between the tiers.Tim Bottomley gave a brief description of his crime and achievements before reading, “Cross my Heart.”

Elton Kelly read “Market Street,” which was about the perspective of a rich person to the homeless population.

Charles Daron read “A Paradoxical Situation.” The story was about his experience in the Los Angeles County Jail and an encounter with a deputy who abused prisoners with “Flash Therapy Sessions.” He said, “I was 8 years old when I started stealing, which I now regret because I can see clearly I was wrong. I now write urban novels as a form of therapy because I can relate to the characters.”

Clark Gerhartsreiter read a tale of a paranoid conspiracy theorist, “The Tyranny of Small Decisions.”

Richard Dean Morris recently paroled and Stu Ross read his story, “Dolly Caulder.” The story is about a woman who was brain dead and in a coma. Her spirit guide, Stanley, gave her the ins and outs of purgatory.

Gary Lee Roberson read “Just Win More Than You Lose.” It’s about going to court for serious charges and winning his freedom.

Joseph Krauter read “Glasses,” which is the last chapter of a novel he is writing since his release from prison.

Stu Ross read “Going Bald Doesn’t Make You Less Attractive.” The title speaks for itself.

Anonymous read “Judgment Day.” The story centers on how prisoners present themselves before the parole board and the information that parole commissioners use to decide a prisoner’s fate.

George Coles read “Mesropiece Theatre.” It depicted a mysterious fantasy filled with fictitious characters.

Michael Jace read “Unfortunate Statistic,” which describes a gruesome discovery of an African American who has been murdered and how he deals with being Black, a police officer and how that affects his family relations.

Kevin D. Sawyer read “You Were Thinking.” The second person narrative is about a person on parole who returns to society trying to adjust to society. The parolee is indifferent to it all.

Juan Haines read “Treading Habits.” The story is about how a person deals with the fact that he’s dying.

Kevin Flanagan read “Now What?” His story started like an exotic, erotic love story, but it ended up becoming a story of a man and woman just simply in love.

Michael Zell read “Go Niners!” After a moment of silence for Kobe Bryant, Zell told the story of an experience at a Niner Super Bowl.

Michael Calvin Holmes read “Waking Up Dead,” which was an odd story about death.

Paul Stauffer read “Jeffrey Wolsey,” a strange story that

contains futuristic science related to mind and body.

Osbun Walton read “I Wasn’t Ready.” It’s a compassionate story about the loss of his brother Timothy.

Rahsaan “New York” Thomas read “Change in Places.” It is a memoir story about accepting accountability for the crime that landed him in prison.

Troy Williams left the prison population with words of encouragement. “It’s always strange to walk back up in here and see the people that you know like family. Then I leave, and it hurts,” he paused then added, “We need y’all home so we can transform our community into what we want it to be.”

Emily Harris, Emile DeWeaver, invited guest with Lawrence Pela

Coalition for Social Justice graduates 17 participants

by

Karen Lovaas, PhD, the program coordinator of Coalition for Social Justice saw 17 of her 21 participants graduate from its sixth cycle on Feb. 12, in the ARC Building in San Quentin.

“The primary goal of the group is to help develop community leaders who deal with criminal behavior from a perspective of social justice and transformation,” Lovaas said, explaining the mission of the group.

“I learn more in here about justice than I do on the outside,” said Lovaas about her graduates.

Lovaas teaches The Rhetoric of Criminality and Punishments at San Francisco State University. She has been involved in American studies for 16 years, and she loves to share the prison experience with her students, she said.

“When I bring my students from the outside in here to see the men in class, it has a profound effect on the kids when talking about justice from the guys’ [perspective] on the inside,” said Lovaas.

Although, coming inside prison has a joy to it for the kids, said Lovaas, it also is a heartbreaking one for the kids having to leave the men behind.

“Amazing how characters are missed from the outside world,” Lovaas said. “It’s magical how communities form in different ways.”

I takes four months to graduate, and the men form close bonds in that time.

“It’s beautiful how a group of strangers can form a community like this,” said chairman and facilitator Royse Rose, 44, referencing Lovaas’ statement. “How are you gonna want justice if you never say anything about the injustices you go through?” Rose told the men.

Rose has been facilitating the group since 2014, and he said it is an honor to give back and see the light of knowledge turning on for the men who get it. To give back is his greatest pleasure, he said.

A graduate who shares the same joy as Rose is Jamar Henry,40.

“I’m excited to be graduating, and I plan to take the knowledge I learned in this class out on the streets with me when I parole in eight years,” said Henry.

He is incarcerated for great bodily injury and said that the class has helped him see life more clearly now.

Third session volunteer Mary O’Sullivan has been coming to the prison for a year and a half. She called the ceremony “sweet” and said in response to Henry, “The world needs people like you who really know the system to be out there and guide the lawmakers to just laws.”

During the passing out of certificates it is customary for each graduate to speak.

First time graduate Chase Washington, known as the class joker, made light of the times when he spent many days in jail.

“My mama used to always tell me that a hard head makes a soft ass,” Washing- ton said. “Well, my ass is cot- ton right now.”

The intimate crowd burst into laughter.

Other graduates Reese Rackley, 23, and Arthur Freeman, 39, are excited to find out how the law really works and are enthusiastic to go back to their communities to help make them better.

“I want my son Malik Freeman, who is in prison at Susanville, to see me graduating,” said Freeman. “I want him to know that education is the best route. I want him to be a better example for his little brothers and sisters.”

When it was time for spon- sor Nate Moore to speak, he kept it direct and to the point.

“Keep doing what you do- ing and get free.”

Moore has been volun- teering in the prison for seven years.

Mentors and facilitators congratulated the men and shared their sentiments for the graduates.

“The men grew into a co- hesive crew of a community,”

said facilitator Aron Roy. The purpose of the group is to learn more than law, said mentor Eric Crutcher,46. “I’ve been a mentor for seven years, and I learned about many different justices,” said Crutcher. “I saw this class save so many lives. I also helped a kid get off drugs, and to me that’s priceless.” Coalition for Social Justice provides reentry services for returning citizens, and Lovaas recommends men who are returning to contact the organization Bonifide.

Coalition for Social Justice Graduates:

Graduates: Patrick Bellard, Jesse Blue, Matthew Brown Lll, Authur Freeman, Jon Golberg, Mario Gomez, Harry Goodall , Angelo Green De, Jamar Henry, Dejon Joy, Christopher Miranda, Wayne Mobley, Don Nicora, Reese Rackley, Vincent Rivera, Jasjit Singh, Ivan Staich, Jake Stebler, Curtis Thiessen, Clenard Wade and Chase Washington

Facilitators: Royce Rose, Phillippe Kelly, Bennett Alan, Aron Roy, Adamu Chan, Authur Jackson
Mentors: Ronald Carter, Eric Crutcher, Elton Kelly, John “Yahya” Parratt, Charles Ross

144 graduate from Division of Rehabilitative Programs

by

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.

Translate »