San Quentin News

Written By Incarcerated - Advancing Social Justice

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A history of Mexico’s iconic celebration

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CINCODE MAYO To many Americans, Cinco de Mayo is mostly an excuse to drink imported beer, take shots of tequila, and feast on Mexican food. Ask around and many people will think it is Mexico’s version of America’s Fourth of July.  Critics contend that this tends to perpetuate negative stereotypes of Mexicans and promotes excessive … [Read More...]

ASL: A SIGN OF THE TIMES

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Prisoner-led sign language course gets go-ahead After submitting six proposals over seven years, Tommy Wickerd is teaching a sign language class in the most unlikely place — his prison of residence.  Motivated by his relationship with his Deaf brother, Wickerd has sought to bridge communications between hearing and non-hearing people during … [Read More...]

DEATH ROW TRANSFERS FACE MIXED REACTIONS

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California’scontroversialmove to shutterdeath row Two clocks, three telephones, and a light green death chamber will soon be a memory as California moves to complete the dismantling of its Death Row.  Attention has turned to transferring the remaining 465 people on Condemned Row to facilities other than San Quentin, since Gov. Gavin Newsom … [Read More...]

SAN QUENTIN HONORS VICTIMS

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Yard event brings victims’ rights organizations together with the incarcerated  Nearly 200 San Quentin residents gathered on the Lower Yard to honor victims and survivors on the last day of Victim Awareness Week.  The event opened with SQ’s religious leaders praying for togetherness and healing.  Survivors joined the … [Read More...]

Breaking the Silence

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For two lifers, the coronaviruspandemic had a silver lining San Quentin’s Darren Settlemeyer will never forget his first phone call with his son after 20 years of estrangement. When Darren reconnected with his son in 2020, he was 20 years into a life sentence and had not seen or spoken to his son since being incarcerated. His son had been only … [Read More...]

One of SQ’s newest artists honors lives lost to COVID

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“I am a person who wants to bring happiness to all, by placing a smile on people’s face, a shimmering of hope,” said Shelley Small, a new San Quentin arrival. The artist considers himself a person with multiple talents, who is a caring and giving person.  One of his goals is to bring out the hidden talents that others’ might have. Showing … [Read More...]

CALPIA, The Last Mile applaud more than 50 graduates

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The California Prison Industry Authority and The Last Mile held their first graduation ceremony at San Quentin since the beginning of the pandemic in 2020.  Over 50 residents were honored in the Feb. 8 ceremony at the Garden Chapel. Graduates were from The Last Mile’s computer coding and audio-engineering programs as well as CALPIA’s Health … [Read More...]

The golden philosophy of KRS-One:

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KNOWLEDGEIS POWER “Knowledge Reigns Supreme Over Nearly Everyone” is the bold acronym of hip hop’s grand “Teacha” known as KRS-One (Lawrence “Kris” Parker). People called the 80s the “Golden Era of Rap” for a reason; it was the time when socially conscious rap lyricists would collide with the rise of “Gangster rap,” which mostly focused on drug … [Read More...]

Governor Newsom names Jeffrey Macomber next CDCR Secretary

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SACRAMENTO – Governor Gavin Newsom [on Dec. 12] announced that Jeffrey Macomber will serve as the next Secretary of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) after Secretary Kathleen Allison retires at the end of the year following three decades of service at the Department.  Macomber was appointed Undersecretary of … [Read More...]

THE POWER OF GIVING

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San Francisco 49ersbring Christmas tochildren of SQ parents  On Dec. 19, the San Francisco 49ers organization brought Christmas cheer and gifts to San Quentin residents and their families while also tackling social justice issues.  “It’s a beautiful thing to have them around,” said Sergio Alvarez. He sat at a table with Niners safety … [Read More...]

California to shutter more prison facilities

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California has sets it sights on closing two operating prisons, as well as enacting cutbacks at six other prisons, as the state continues its decade-long push to decrease its overcrowded prison population.  A few weeks before the holidays, state officials announced that they planned to close California City Correctional Facility in Kern … [Read More...]

Video surveillance installed across SQ

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Officials at San Quentin State Prison have installed numerous surveillance cameras throughout the institution’s housing units, educational departments, work sites, chapel areas and recreational yards.  As the work progressed, residents saw and heard workers utilizing scissor-lift vehicles to fix the devices high up on the walls of cell blocks. … [Read More...]

Saying goodbye to a legend and embracing his legacy

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In my journey with the San Quentin News, some extraordinary people have challenged me, and touched and changed my life. Captain Sam Robinson is one of those extraordinary people. He is beyond inspirational. Robinson embodies what it means to be truly human. In this dichotomy of “cops and robbers,” or in this environment, correctional officers … [Read More...]

END of an ERA as SQ Public Information Officer Sam Robinson retires

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December 31 marked the last day of a year and the last day of an era. Captain Samuel Robinson walked out of San Quentin State Prison to end his 26-year career with the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Robinson went from walking the tiers of Death Row to managing one of the most innovative programs that ever existed inside a … [Read More...]

A DAY OF HEALING

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San Quentin News hosts violence prevention symposium San Quentin held its first violence prevention symposium, the Day of Healing, in the Garden Chapel on Nov. 4. An intimate offender/victim dialog ensued between currently and formerly incarcerated individuals and survivors of violent crimes. The Mend Collaborative, an organization rooted in a … [Read More...]

Judges, lawyers get firsthand look at incarceration 

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A large group of judges and lawyers visited San Quentin on Nov. 2 to gain understanding about a place where some of the people they sentence may end up residing.  The judges had been instructed by CDCR not to disclose their names to the SQ residents. But during their visit the group was impressed by the openness and candor of the … [Read More...]

Victim Offender Education Group back in business

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 A self-help group aimed at unearthing the harm caused by crime has returned to San Quentin after a 26-month lull.  The program, called Victim Offender Education Group (VOEG, pronounced “vogue”), is looking to train new residents as facilitators, according to the Insight Prison Project.  VOEG was originally for adult … [Read More...]

Newsom signs bill expanding free phone calls

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 California prisoners will be able to make free phone calls to family and friends effective Jan. 1, 2023.  That is thanks to SB 1008, the Keep Families Connected Act, signed into law Sept. 29 by Gov. Gavin Newsom.  California families spend an estimated $68.2 million every year for phone calls with the incarcerated, said Worth … [Read More...]

TransMetro offers free transportation to prisoner families

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Families of incarcerated people in California are now receiving free transportation services to attend in-person visits.  The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation has formed a partnership with TransMetro to provide transportation to all adult corrections facilities.  They provide free transportation for families and … [Read More...]

San Francisco Giants mental health team visits SQ

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Mental health was the topic of a recent panel discussion of sports figures inside and outside of San Quentin State Prison.  Panelists included former major league baseball player Drew Robinson, San Francisco Giants Director of Mental Health Dr. Shana A., and Clinical Psychologist Dr. Emily P. The audience included San Quentin A’s players … [Read More...]

David Roybal’s timeless pin-up style creations say it all

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SQNews believes art is a universal language, a tool to explore our creativity and inner-self in the quest for betterment and understanding. For some of the artists we have featured, art is, even more, personal — it is part of their family tree. San Quentin resident David Roybal, 63, exemplifies this. As a little kid, he witnessed his late … [Read More...]

Isom finds therapeutic relief at the tip of his brush

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Art contains hidden treasures. For some, this treasure is the use of their art as the raft to navigate the deep, raging rivers of their past in the quest for internal healing and reconciliation. Jeffrey A. Isom is uniquely willing to open up and share such hidden treasures and expose his vulnerability. Isom, 58, creates art … [Read More...]

GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS: CHAMPS RETURN TO THE Q

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The Golden State Warriors, champions of the NBA, sent members of their organization to San Quentin to support the incarcerated population and resume their basketball rivalry with the San Quentin Warriors. The visiting team won the Sept. 16 game, 83–65, and extended their series lead to 5–3. The team the GSW brought in to play was led by owner … [Read More...]

Candidates for State Assembly visit San Quentin media center

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The two top candidates for the 12th District State Assembly seat in California visited San Quentin State Prison ahead of the November 2022 election. Damon Connolly and Sara Aminzadeh, both democrats, stopped by SQ to hear about its rehabilitation programs and talk about their campaigns. Both are vying for the Assembly seat vacated by Marc … [Read More...]

Third annual Mental Wellness Week promotes suicide prevention

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San Quentin celebrated its third annual Mental Wellness Week in September to promote suicide awareness and prevention through events aimed at encouraging, empowering and inspiring the residents of San Quentin State Prison. The week of fun-filled events concentrated on a variety of mental-wellness support systems and emotional check-in … [Read More...]

CELEBRATING OUR 150th EDITION

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Struggles, tragedies and triumphs are what a good story and powerful dynasties are built on. SQNews is honored to reach another milestone by celebrating our 150th edition. This illustrious milestone was almost derailed by the deadly Covid- 19 outbreak that claimed 28 of our incarcerated peers’ lives. Seven SQNews staff also paroled throughout … [Read More...]

Paul Stauffer finds purpose, release in his paintbrush

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“I paint and I write because it gives me purpose,” said San Quentin resident Paul Stauffer. “It’s a release from tension, and it helps me to release an excess amount of imagination.”  He says he’s appreciative of the art room at San Quentin, where he has the chance to socialize and collaborate with other artists.  Stauffer, 65, … [Read More...]

Native artist’s generational pain poured out on canvas

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“Spiritually and mentally, art helps me escape from prison,” said Joseph “Jo-Joe” Salazar. “It is medicine to me. It is beautiful that my creator gifted me with this talent.”  Salazar plays the guitar, harmonica, and drums — abilities, he says, that have kept him going during his incarceration. Art is deeper than just passing time, Salazar … [Read More...]

SQ residents observe annual Day of Peace

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After 15 years, the event’s original legacy is in danger of being forgotten  In 2006, Blacks and Mexicans rioted on San Quentin’s Lower Yard.  As the chaos unfolded, Tung Nguyen and other members of a self-help group, TRUST, were leading a group of about 50 civilian volunteers to a Black History event on the Yard. When he noticed … [Read More...]

GRIP GRADS LOOK TO THE FUTURE

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Flagship program equips prisoners with tools for life outside of prison Four graduating Tribes of the GRIP program (Guiding Rage into Power) were honored during a two-day event in San Quentin’s Chapel B in August.  Present to celebrate the event with the 64 graduates were state officials including a senator, San Quentin Warden Ron … [Read More...]

Salvadorian artist’s patriotism flows in shades of blue

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Juan C. Sanchez, 28, uses blue ink to sketch portraits, classic cars and roses, on handkerchiefs.  “I really don’t remember when I started drawing. I know that I started doodling when I was in sixth grade— my thing was cartoons,” Sanchez said.  He said he became an artist in order to express what he was thinking.  While in high … [Read More...]

Chromebooks for SQ coders

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The Last Mile, CDCR collaborate to sponsor laptop program for SQ coders   San Quentin prisoners are participating in a first-of-its-kind program that allows them to take laptop computers back and forth to their cells.  Acer Chrome Book computers have been assigned to prisoners in The Last Mile’s Coding 7370 program.  “We … [Read More...]

SQNews wins again at California Journalism Awards

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The California News Publishers Association recognized San Quentin News writers with seven awards in its 2021 California Journalism Awards Print Contest.  For coverage of youth and education, Managing Editor Charles Crowe received Second Place and Spanish Journalism Guild Chair Edwin E. Chavez received Fifth Place. For editorials, … [Read More...]

Incarcerated women face new post-Roe challenges

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In the already high-risk prison environment, incarcerated pregnant women are facing new challenges in the wake of the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade reversal, according to The Hill.  It was difficult even before the High Court’s new ruling for incarcerated women to access basic and essential healthcare items, including menstrual products, not to … [Read More...]

Mark Cadiz’s art honors San Quentin’s Covid deaths

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San Quentin News continues to find some of the many hidden treasures within these ancient walls.  That includes artists who create based on their own style and imagination, bringing them out of the shadows of incarceration and giving life to their craft.  “After my fever broke, I found the pencils, papers, crayons and comic books my … [Read More...]

Covid whiplash: Rolling lockdowns taking heavy toll

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Since the COVID-19 pandemic began in 2020, San Quentin residents have struggled to cope with multiple waves of infections, but also the hardships associated with the modified programs and repeated lockdowns. Part of that challenge, which generates often-heard complaints in North Block, is the frequent changes in the program.  “Every … [Read More...]

MOUNT TAMALPAIS COLLEGE HOLDS 2022 GRADUATION

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 Covid  Graduates, faculty, administrators, family and friends celebrated an extraordinary achievement in the face of extraordinary adversity at the Mt. Tamalpais College graduation at the Chapel on June 24.  The graduation was both the first in-person ceremony since 2019 due to disruptions driven by COVID-19 and the first … [Read More...]

Reggie Yates traces his African ancestry through his art

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San Quentin resident Reginald Yates embraces his ancestral roots by reviving some of the old traits of African tribal art. Some may dismiss this as misguided attention to an extinct culture — but not Yates, who refuses to let this hidden treasure vanish.  “I just get a pleasure (out) of exposing this art to people who may never saw … [Read More...]

Erick Maciel sees inspiration everywhere he looks

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Art is a way for incarcerated people to sooth the mind and soul in a positive way. It provides a healthy escape from the depression that often accompanies life in prison. In the SQNews art back page edition, we intend to showcase the hidden talents of many incarcerated people, so that they can be appreciated and enjoyed by others across the prison … [Read More...]

 Audio journalism program holds graduation 

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 An audio journalism program that trains incarcerated people in the skills necessary to work in radio upon release had its first graduation for students at San Quentin State Prison in April.  Un-cuffed, an award-winning podcast produced by the incarcerated, started at SQ three years ago. It has been expanded to Solano and seeks to … [Read More...]

Changes in incarceration rates less impressive than expected

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Reductions in incarcerated populations during the COVID-19 pandemic have proven to be only temporary, new federal data shows.  Included in the reductions count are COVID deaths, early releases, and fewer new prisoners, the data notes.  The largest reductions were in jail populations, which fell by 25%, followed by state and federal … [Read More...]

 BLUE & BLUE RETURNS TO SAN QUENTIN 

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 San Francisco Police return to SQ for talks on social justice, reform   Top leadership of the San Francisco police department gathered with a group of criminal justice experts in San Quentin’s Garden Chapel in April to discuss ways to reduce crime and improve their policing.  The experts had earned their knowledge the hard … [Read More...]

NOTICE TO OUR READERS:

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Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic and institutional quarantines, we have had to combine our June and July editions. We hope to be back on schedule as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding. … [Read More...]

Junior Ramirez finds peace in his passion 

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Art was his only means of communication; now it’s his hope There is a saying that art imitates life. If that is so, then the artistic genius of Jorge “JR” Ramirez reveals that he has life fully grasped within the strokes of his hands.  JR, as he is known by family and friends, comes from the streets of Chicago and moved to Sacramento at age … [Read More...]

Prisons adopt high tech monitoring

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Prisoners’ rights groups are concerned about the use of new surveillance technology in U.S. prisons and jails, and they are sounding the alarm about potential abuses.  Voice of America reported in February that the Thomson Reuters Foundation uncovered documents from eight states showing that prison and jail authorities were using the Verus … [Read More...]

Mount Tamalpais College accreditation confirmed

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 For the first time in history, an independent, fully-accredited college exists inside a prison.  Mount Tamalpais College (Mt. Tam), located on the grounds of San Quentin State Prison (SQ), was formally accredited as a two-year college by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Inside Higher Ed … [Read More...]

WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY

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San Quentin News celebrates freedom of the press ina look back on a historic journey of award-winningprison journalism spanning more than eight decades As World Press Freedom Day is celebrated, San Quentin News marks 82 years since it was established by warden Clinton T. Duffy. What began as a four-page publication, written and printed on … [Read More...]

CDC examines racial disparities in gun-related murders

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Young Black men are 20 times more likely to by killed by guns than Whites, a federal report says.  Black males age 15–34 made up 2% of the United States’ population, yet accounted for 37% of gun-related murders, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported. The 2019 analysis titled “A Public Health Crisis in the Making” uncovered a … [Read More...]

Prisoners feel pinch of skyrocketing prices

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San Quentin residents are encountering higher prices at the canteen window. For example, the cost of a quart of ice cream is now $4.45 for a ten-ounce carton, up almost half again from the October price. And in Walkenhorst’s latest catalog many incarcerated people have probably noticed sharp increases in the price of quarterly package … [Read More...]

San Quentin population on its way back up

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San Quentin population on an upward trajectory after pandemic decline In 2020 San Quentin experienced one of the most deadly periods in its long history — the COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty-nine people died, including a custodial staff sergeant. In the midst of the crisis, the prison’s population fell gradually — until its recent spike. San … [Read More...]

 The end of the line for Death Row?

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California begins the process of repurposing Death Row housing units The nation’s largest Death Row is now in its final throes, as Gov. Gavin Newsom prepares to implement the remaining portion of a 2016 voter initiative that moves condemned prisoners to other maximum-security facilities and integrates them with the general prison … [Read More...]

SQ residents file new round of habeas petitions

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 In January 2022, 91 San Quentin residents filed for habeas corpus relief in the Marin County Superior Court. This new round of legal pleadings is an extension of a similar petition that was filed in June 2021, challenging the prison’s COVID-19 response amid the virus’ latest outbreak.  The petitions, represented by the Marin County Public … [Read More...]

Mixed reactions to ‘pay-to-stay’ jails in SoCal 

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Some detainees pay $200 or more per day for creature comforts  In Southern California, “pay-to-stay” jails offer large private cells with various amenities to those who can afford to pay for them, according to a report by The Marshall Project produced in collaboration with the Los Angeles Times.  At least 26 pay-to-stay facilities are … [Read More...]

Black History Month – five profiles

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Donald “Don” King (1931 - present) “Only in America” became Don King, the famous boxing promoter’s, catchphrase along with his trademark wild Afro-style hair-do. In 1967, King served more than three at the Marion Correctional Institution in Ohio for manslaughter (second-degree murder). He was convicted of stomping to death by one of his … [Read More...]

New S.F. Transitional Housing Community for Women

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“We wanted color, never wanting to see prison gray again” An apartment complex in San Francisco is now home to formerly incarcerated women who were released from prison after having killed their abusers. HomeFree is a transitional housing reentry program started by Five Keys Schools and Programs, on the former Naval base of Treasure Island. … [Read More...]

Bob Goff Gives Inspirational Speech on Big Dreams

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The second annual graduating Dream Big class of bestselling author Bob Goff received their certificates for participating in a class that embodies spirituality, hope and ambition on Dec. 14. All the classmates were draped in their graduation gowns and wore caps with tassels as their faces beamed while listening to Goff on stage. “I’m learning … [Read More...]

 San Quentin’s Toys-for-Tots Event

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San Quentin’s veterans received an unexpected gift when Toys-for-Tots, their annual toy giveaway, was green-lighted for December 24 and 25. Holiday spirit flowed through the visiting rooms as SQ residents who served in the military gave hundreds of toys to families with children visiting their incarcerated loved ones.  The annual Christmas … [Read More...]

Mt. Tamalpais College introduces laptops to students

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In the Spring of 2022, Mt. Tamalpais college (Mt. Tam) at San Quentin (SQ) will provide its students with access to laptop computers. “For the past twenty-five years, students have not had access to technology or computers during their studies,” wrote Mt Tam staff in June 2021. “They have written work and conducted research using printouts and … [Read More...]

 SQ Suffers Another Outbreak

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Two months after a local court ruled that the COVID-19 emergency at San Quentin State Prison had passed, the entire California prison system has gone back on lockdown as the virus’ omicron variant spreads rapidly through the state’s correctional institutions, with hundreds infected at San Quentin alone. In November, a Marin County Superior … [Read More...]

GTL tablets begin a slow rollout

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California prisoners are receiving free Global Tel Link (GTL) Connect Network tablets designed to help them communicate with the outside world.  The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has partnered with the Department of Technology to contract with GTL to enhance incarcerated communication.  “The enhanced … [Read More...]

Reentry hope waiting for vets

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SQNews holds Q&A with Kayla Owen, Case Manager for HomeFirst Services of Santa Clara County What do you want the incarcerated veterans to know about your program? We want veterans returning from incarceration to know that HomeFirst has a wide variety of supportive services that can assist them with their reintegration into society. Our … [Read More...]

Compassion Prison Project takes aim at prisoner trauma

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 Group promotes safer society by treating root causes of incarceration  Compassion Prison Project (CPP) founder Fritzi Horstman and California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke-Harris visited Valley State Prison (VSP) to talk to prisoners and officers about Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs).  Horstman and a group of … [Read More...]

FOOD SALE GROSSES $63K

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 San Quentin fundraiser benefits children of the incarcerated  After lengthy delays, San Quentin residents were treated to a special event — a food sale where they would buy delicious food not normally on their menus. Hundreds of smiling, anxious men lined up for lengthy waits to collect their orders from top administrators and … [Read More...]

No More Tears grads embrace accountability, heal history of violence

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A group of men learned how to abandon their history of violence in an intensive workshop in San Quentin Prison. “It’s been a long journey but we finally got here,” said Maurice Reed, one of the group’s facilitators. “Class of 2020! No more guns, no more violence, no more hiding, no more tears!” he shouted. Two years ago, 80 participants … [Read More...]

Local politics play role in CA resentencing

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Recent legislation has created new opportunities for prisoners to have their sentences recalled by the court. But there are also new political barriers to obstruct inmate access to the court when they file a Petition for Recall of Sentence.  Under Penal Code section 1170(d)(1), there are four ways in which a state prisoner may have a court … [Read More...]

Folsom women join Journalism Guild

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SQNews’ Journalism Guild expands to Folsom Women’s Facility, aiming to bring new voices to the forefront of prison journalism In a history-making move, the San Quentin News Journalism Guild established its first satellite newsroom at the Folsom Women’s Facility (FWF) on Nov. 1. Students in the program will receive journalism training that will … [Read More...]

Polanco family files suit over death of highly-regarded sergeant

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The family of a beloved San Quentin correctional sergeant who died of COVID-19 filed a wrongful death lawsuit against prison officials. The federal civil rights suit claims that his death was preventable and resulted from unsafe conditions at the prison created by “intentional and deliberately indifferent” decisions. “Officials created a … [Read More...]

San Quentin appeals record COVID fines

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San Quentin State Prison was fined $421,880 for COVID-19 workplace violations, the Sacramento Bee reported. San Quentin’s penalties topped the list of roughly 200 employers fined about $4.6 million by California’s Division of Occupational Safety and Health (Cal/OSHA) for COVID-related workplace violations, the June 24 story stated. San … [Read More...]

Federal judge issues vaccine mandate

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Prison personnel and certain incarcerated workers required to be inoculated A federal judge has ordered all California prison employees entering a prison to be vaccinated against COVID-19 unless they have a medical or religious exemption. The order affects all prison workers, including correctional officers. U.S. District Court Judge Jon … [Read More...]

Arthur Yeary brings people and animals to life

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San Quentin State Prison has a diverse population of artists who work in a variety of styles and mediums. Each edition of SQ News seeks to highlight the amazing creativity among us. Arthur L. Yeary is one such artist whose incredible talent shines brightly.  “When I was 13, I started learning how to draw by doodling,” said Yeary. “The … [Read More...]

Robert Guzman’s hands express his father’s legacy

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Robert Guzman is a 54-year-old Native American who found a new life as an artist and amateur counselor in prison. His bloodline includes Ute, Blackfoot, and Mexican. He arrived at San Quentin in 2019. Throughout his 21 years of incarceration, Guzman honed skills he developed as a young boy working with leather, beads, paints, and woodcarvings — … [Read More...]

Hunger strike anniversary sheds light on SHU conditions

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Ten years ago, 10 prisoners in Pelican Bay’s Segregated Housing Unit (SHU) set aside their racial and political differences to work together to file a lawsuit about their conditions and to organize a hunger strike in peaceful protest. They wanted the Pelican Bay administration and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation … [Read More...]

Court orders use of body cams in prison

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A federal court has expanded a mandate that requires California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) officers to wear body cameras. “The court order originally only applied to the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility,” the Sacramento Bee reported.  Later, the court expanded its order to five prisons to include Kern Valley … [Read More...]

Mental Wellness Month addresses psychological self-care

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When a person starts to serve a sentence in a California prison, depression and despair are leading causes for a mental health crisis. Feeling abused and isolated are added factors.  Salinas Valley State Prison recorded the highest number of suicides during a 10-year period, according to the California Department of Corrections and … [Read More...]

Jerry Welsh finds therapeutic benefit in his intricate beadwork

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Gerald Welsh, 51, who has been incarcerated for 16 years, said he creates bead crafts for therapeutic reasons. “I find peace of mind and it is also a part of my religious belief,” said Welsh. Doing bead work sent him on a “whole different journey,” he said, as it has taken him through self-discovery and helped him to embrace his roots. Welsh … [Read More...]

Remembering Ronnie Goodman: Painter, champion runner, friend

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Living on the streets of San Francisco, Ronnie Goodman was never “homeless,” for his heart was ever at home in his art. “I am inspired by the beauty of this city and its diversity, balanced with the struggles of human despair,” he wrote before he died. “With my brush, I try to capture these raw emotions. Former San Quentin resident Ronnie … [Read More...]

§1170 Resentencing Pilot Program receives funding

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California has adopted and funded a program aimed at correcting inappropriate prison sentences. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed the Resenting Pilot Program into law in the 2021-22 budget. It will begin on Sept. 1. There are currently nine counties that will be involved in the initial pilot program: Contra Costa, Los Angeles, Riverside, Yolo, … [Read More...]

San Quentin COVID-19 response goes on trial

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For the first time ever, public court hearings were live-streamed via Zoom inside San Quentin. Incarcerated residents convened daily in the chapel to watch fellow prisoners, corrections officials, and medical experts testify about SQ’s COVID-19 outbreak. More than 300 SQ petitioners alleged claims of “deliberate indifference” and “cruel and … [Read More...]

Mt. Tam College classes resume

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A year and a half after canceling all classes due to the pandemic, Mount Tamalpais College (MTC) reopened in-person instruction inside San Quentin on September 14.  Twenty classes are now starting for some 300 students, including more than 50 new college students this Fall 2021 semester.  “It feels so empowering to be back in class,” … [Read More...]

SQ DEAF COMMUNITY DURING COVID-19

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A new community of unique deaf people arrived at San Quentin and had to endure a prison programming change plus a devastating COVID-19 outbreak.  “My COVID experience was awful,” said Jaime Paredes, SQ incarcerated deaf resident. “We were housed in North Block, but were getting quarantined in Badger Unit. We (the deaf community) was on … [Read More...]

IT’S SHOWTIME! WITH AARON TAYLOR

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Being prepared boosted Aaron “Showtime” Taylor from being a sports announcer inside San Quentin to doing the public address announcing at a game for the Golden State Warriors on April 10. “I was prepared for the moment when I got the unexpected email from the Warriors organization,” said Taylor in a telephone interview. The Warriors … [Read More...]

Michael Harris is free after 30 years

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Michael Harris, co-founder of Death Row Records and former San Quentin News editor-in-chief, has finally been freed. Harris was granted a pardon by former President Donald Trump, after serving 30 years in state and federal prisons. We at SQ News send Harris our respect and support on his next journey. We are truly grateful to Harris. After San … [Read More...]

New CDCR contract helps families stay connected

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Reduced phone costs and a tablet program are coming to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the CDCR has announced. A new six-year contract with Global Tel*Link (GTL) will reduce telephone costs starting March 19. All nationwide calls will be lowered to 2.5 cents per minute. Previously calls in California were 7.6 cents … [Read More...]

Random attacks targeting elderly Asian Americans

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Random attacks on elderly Asian Americans are being tied to former President Donald Trump’s assertion that the novel coronavirus is a “Chinese” disease. The U.S. has seen a spike in crimes against a community that has become the victims of hate and rhetoric, a community already considered vulnerable and less likely to report crime, reported … [Read More...]

Chinese community celebrates New Year

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Dancing dragons and loud pops from firecrackers normally mark the Chinese New Year or Spring Festival. Due to COVID-19, a lot of celebrations were canceled or scaled down for 2021, called the “Year of the Ox." In Chinese culture, a zodiac sign is given to individuals born that year. There is the year of the Rat, Snake or the Pig. These … [Read More...]

San Quentin reopens limited in-person rehabilitation programs

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After almost a year of modified programming and a massive CO-VID-19 outbreak, San Quentin has reopened limited in-person education and its Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment (ISUDT) programming. Under the current COVID-19 emergency protocols, students and substance abuse participants are scheduled to attend in-person classes with … [Read More...]

Cesar E. Chavez inspire reforms

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“Si Se Puede!” (Yes, it can be done!), embodies the uncommon legacy Cesar E. Chavez left for millions of people around the world. “If you’re not frightened that you might fail, you’ll never do the job,” said Chavez, according to Education of the Heart Quotes by Chavez. “If you’re frightened, you’ll work like crazy. Cesar Chavez was a civil … [Read More...]

Incarcerated Reentry Resource Directory

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This resource guide was provided by post-conviction unit interns from UC Hastings and the San Francisco Public’s Defenders Office. Researched and compiled by Ayanna Gandhi, Abigail Swallow, Amy Tao, Violeta Velazquez, Ruby Wilks under the Supervision of Stephen Liebb. Time for Change Foundation (Women) 2164 N Mountain View Ave San Bernardino, … [Read More...]

Black History month celebrates artists and legends

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Dr. Charles Drew (June 3, 1904 -April 1950) was an American surgeon and medical researcher. He researched in the field of blood transfusions and improved techniques for blood storage. He developed large-scale blood banks in early World War II. This allowed medics to save thousands of lives of the Allied forces, according to Wikipedia. To protest … [Read More...]

Q&A with Pulitzer Prize-nominated Ear Hustle

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Once again Ear Hustle, San Quentin’s critically acclaimed podcast, has broken new ground. It was nominated for the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for audio recording, It was one of the three finalists for the prestigious award. This American Life with the Los Angeles Times and Vice News won. But for a podcast produced from prison to be acknowledged at that … [Read More...]

COVID-19 vaccinations in CDCR

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Makeshift vaccination stations were erected on San Quentin’s West Block yard in late January to provide those 65 and older and other vulnerable prisoners COVID-19 vaccination shots. Medical and correctional staff were the first to receive the vaccinations earlier that month. Medical staff are in the process of administering the Moderna or … [Read More...]

Ella Baker: Civil and human rights activist

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Ella Baker was an African-American civil rights and human rights activist. She was a largely behind-the-scenes organizer whose career spanned more than five decades. In New York City and the South, she worked alongside some of the most noted civil rights leaders of the 20th century, including W. E. B. Du Bois, Thurgood Marshall, A. Philip Randolph, … [Read More...]

Our honors list for criminal justice work

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San Quentin News would like to honor and recognize these individuals for their work and contributions to social and criminal justice reform. There is no given order to the list; they all have selflessly and tirelessly worked for progressive changes in our criminal justice system, be it through donations, legislation or hard-nosed, on-the-streets, … [Read More...]

Sistas’ With Voices rally calls to new head of CDCR

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Voices of concern, love and a call to action were raised by families, friends and prison reform advocacy groups to welcome a new change in CDCR leadership. Sistas’ With Voices (SWV), a reentry and prison reform and advocacy group, led a rally on October 1 at CDCR headquarters in Sacramento to welcome Kathleen Allison, the new secretary of the … [Read More...]

CDCR plans to close DVI in 2021

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The closure of two of the 35 state prisons has been announced by the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. Deuel Vocational Institute (DVI), California’s sixth oldest prison, is scheduled to be closed Sept. 30, 2021. The Modified Community Correctional Facility (MCCF) at Shafter was scheduled to close Oct. 31, reported … [Read More...]

Cutting SQ population in half is a risky job

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San Quentin is on the verge of a monumental change after a state appellate court ordered the prison to slice its incarcerated population by 50% to cut back the coronavirus outbreak within the institution, according to multiple news agencies and the court order. Ivan Von Staich, a San Quentin prisoner, filed a court petition claiming that San … [Read More...]

PIA shifted its focus to COVID-19 care

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An emergency medical team and housing facility provided critical care for San Quentin’s sickest patients suffering from California’s deadliest prison coronavirus outbreak.  “By the end of this week, we will have a 220-bed Alternative Care Site (ACS) in PIA (Prison Industry Authority). This will improve our capacity to provide onsite medical … [Read More...]

SB 118 revises compassionate release

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Gov. Gavin Newsome has signed a bill increasing the chance for elderly and ill prisoners to obtain a compassionate release. The measure, SB 118, provides those incarcerated who have been diagnosed with a condition which is determined to either result in death or incapacitation to the point of an inability to perform the activities of basic daily … [Read More...]

Kathleen Allison the new Secretary of CDCR

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CDCR Press Release Kathleen Allison was appointed by Governor Gavin Newsom as Secretary for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) on October 1, 2020. In her over 30 years at CDCR, she has held several leadership roles, including most recently Proposition 17 frees the vote for the formerly … [Read More...]

Gov. Newsom signs prison reform bills into law

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California prison reform got a boost as Gov. Gavin Newsom signed various legislative bills into law. But some of the incarcerated  remain skeptical about whether  there will be any real changes.  Parole for the elderly, prison closures and transgender correctional housing requests are among the changes that the California … [Read More...]

Proposition 17 frees the vote of the formerly incarcerated

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More than 40,000 parolees will head to the ballot box in the future.  California voters approve the Free the Vote Act this November.  The right to vote is an integral part of this democratic process in America, but there is a portion of Californians who are unable to have their voices heard at the ballot box, making Prop.17 a priority bill of … [Read More...]

The stark reality of prison, COVID and the public perception

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The screams of “Man Down!” (the incarcerated emergency medical call) rattle around the various San Quentin housing units. The alert starts the sounds of correctional officers loud boots hitting the pavement and their keys jingling adds to the chaos and the panic when the emergency alarms go off. Medical nurses arrive, covered from head to toe in … [Read More...]

The astonishing growth of San Quentin News

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This is a difficult time for the San Quentin News. But it’s not difficult for the reasons that plague nearly every other newspaper in the country. Those newspapers are in trouble because they are running out of readers, who increasingly switch to the internet for their information. The San Quentin News has plenty of eager readers. Its current … [Read More...]

SQ’s Sgt. G. Polanco passes from COVID-19

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Sad news: West Block has lost another guiding light. On Sunday, August 9, Sergeant G. Polanco died from coronavirus. Polanco, 55, a West Block unit Sergeant, is among the growing death list in our San Quentin community. We have lost 26 [29 by printing] of our incarcerated peers, friends, and associates to this deadly disease. Polanco became the … [Read More...]

CDCR and how they’re handing the global pandemic

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California prison officials are doing everything they can to protect incarcerated people from Coronavirus outbreaks, except release half the population. “What we are not going to do is make a bad situation worse,” said Ralph Diaz, Secretary of the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) at a recent hearing. He cited … [Read More...]

The #STOPSANQUENTINOUTBREAK coalition

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Major protests, media appearances and a growing social media campaign are being led by former San Quentin prisoners, families of the currently incarcerated, prison reform advocates and some government officials. “We (the coalition) continue to agree with public health experts who have said that at least a 50%reduction in the incarcerated rate is … [Read More...]

Eddie Mixon’s Struggle To Survive His Risks

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As Coronavirus deaths escalate in California’s prisons, advocates say medical parole could help stem the pandemic. With a third of the population at San Quentin State Prison infected, the chronically ill and the elderly are scared that without intervention they could be next. [Note: This article was written in June. By mid-July, half the … [Read More...]

The Incarcerated Deaf Have Extra Challenges

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A new community of deaf people has finally arrived at San Quentin Prison. After battles in the courts and multiple fights contesting the ability of the deaf to function on non-handicapped prison yards, officials have conceded that deaf people may attend the programs that they desire, said one ex-prison official. “I love the environment and … [Read More...]

Wardens Broomfield, Allen Describe Their Journeys

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San Quentin’s acting warden, Ron Broomfield, recently accepted an invitation to sit in and speak directly with the incarcerated participants of Power Source, a San Quentin self-help program designed for young adults. But more than talk, Broomfield and Chief Deputy Warden Trent Allen also came to listen to the voices of the young individuals sent … [Read More...]

Mt. Tam College Is Born at San Quentin

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For the first time in history, an incarcerated community has an independent, accredited college program all its own. Newly named Mt. Tamalpais College (MTC) has established residency at San Quentin State Prison. “Everything happening right now is an affirmation of the unique challenges and questions we’ve faced. Every prison should have a … [Read More...]

The Early Warnings Of a Prison Pandemic

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Timothy Hicks wrote the following article well before the COVID-19 pandemic hit San Quentin. It foretells the disaster that would unfold at prisons generally and at San Quentin in particular. The Corona Virus has hit the U.S., prompting a fear is that it may hit prisons, with many questioning its possible impact. “Given the volume of … [Read More...]

Oakland bans the box for housing

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Oakland is the first city in the state to ban landlords from using criminal convictions to reject renters applying for private or public housing. The City Council unanimously passed the Fair Chance Housing Ordinance that prohibits landlords asking about a previous criminal conviction or denying an applicant with such a record. “This is … [Read More...]

SQN Johnson earns first Master’s Degree in 10 years

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Striving for a good education has its challenges for anyone, but for incarcerated students those trials and tribulations are greater. However, one incarcerated man has persevered and has become the first student to earn a Master’s of Business and Administration (MBA) degree at San Quentin State Prison in almost a decade. Michael Johnson, 37, … [Read More...]

144 graduate from Division of Rehabilitative Programs

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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 … [Read More...]

An unusual family visit at San Quentin

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On the first day of 2020, Marion Wickerd --wife of 1000 Mile Club member Tommy Wickerd—shared a special moment with her husband of 15 years: The Wickerds were spending a family visit together at The Q. However, instead of watching the New Year’s Day Rose Parade on television, the two were going to watch to the 4th Annual San Quentin New Year’s … [Read More...]

Prison Truth: The Story of the San Quentin News

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Veteran journalist Ted Koppel got it right when he said William J. Drummond proves to be the right person to tell the tale of San Quentin News (SQN). Drummond’s credibility as the storyteller comes from his long and eventful career as a journalist, UC Berkeley journalism professor and his once or twice a week venture inside the SQN newsroom office … [Read More...]

Executive forms organization to help officials curb recidivism

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A top Google executive has formed a non-profit organization to help prison officials understand which programs work and don’t work to curb recidivism. “In the criminal justice system today-an incredibly large and important and impactful system-we have none of those same abilities. It’s millions of lives, billions of dollars, and we don’t have a … [Read More...]

SQ keeps tradition of giving

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Veterans’ Toys for Tots continues to warm the hearts of many The cheer of Christmas giving filled the San Quentin State Prison visiting rooms as children celebrated the holidays with their incarcerated loved ones in December. “We got absolutely excited!” said 11-year-old Omar Elias, who came to the prison to visit his uncle Ramon Ruelas. … [Read More...]

When sports turn an eye toward prison

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The Sacramento Kings showed love to Folsom State prisoners during a special night of community healing. In a circle within the prison chapel, they shared life experiences before celebrating Folsom’s newly renovated outdoor basketball court. Kings players, owner Vivek Ranadive, coach Luke Walton and others joined filmmaker-turned-social activist … [Read More...]

World renowned magicians tour and perform at SQ

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An international squad of escape artists, grand illusionists, mind readers and tricksters descended on San Quentin State Prison for a special Nov. 26 performance right before Thanksgiving. Set to make their Broadway San Francisco debut later that night, Champions of Magic chose to first visit SQ and dazzle prisoners with theatrical wizardry and … [Read More...]

Bread & Roses perform for Death Row

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Entire concert was videotaped for Death Row viewing Prisoners and outside guest Tony Saunders played a concert for the 700-plus men housed on the world’s largest Death Row inside San Quentin State Prison. More than 30 prisoners from the general population did musical performances in the prison’s Catholic Chapel, but due to the security … [Read More...]

The value of Prison to Employment Connection on returning citizens through job opportunities and connections

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Prison to Employment Connection (PEC) reached a milestone at San Quentin, completing its 10th session and graduating 44 men, who learned how to present themselves to future employers. One of the highlights of the program was Employer Day in November, where 196 interviews took place with inmates inside the prison’s Protestant chapel. They were … [Read More...]

Red Hoop drumming group brings sounds of life to SQ Pow Wow

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The Nevada Red Hoop drumming group brought the sounds of life to San Quentin’s Native American Group Annual Fall Pow Wow. The thumping sounds of traditional drumming filled the prison’s visiting room, blending with the scent of sage, circle dancing and chanting from the outside spiritual elders. The pulsating drumbeats simulate the rhythm … [Read More...]

Advocates launch #MeTooBehindBars for those incarcerated

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Sexual violence and transphobia in prisons are still taboo topics of discussion, even in the midst of some prison reform efforts nationwide. But a group of victims/survivors and advocates launched the #MeTooBehindBars campaign that aims to influence the #MeToo movement and to include the voices of those incarcerated who have or are suffering … [Read More...]

Annual Christmas Banquet brings out the holiday spirit

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The spirit of the holidays filled the San Quentin Protestant Chapel for more than 300 volunteers and prisoners at the annual Christmas Banquet. “It’s such a joyous occasion. It’s the best day of the year for so many of us!” said Fred Cole, one of about 250 men in blue. Some 50 volunteers and the inmates braved the rain and wind on the … [Read More...]

SQ Transgender Day of Remembrance

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For the first time in its history, San Quentin State Prison joined the nationwide movement on Nov. 20 to memorialize 22 transpersons killed by hatred across the U.S. in the last year. “Just because I’m not a part of society doesn’t mean that as a transwoman I don’t matter,” said incarcerated trans activist Lisa Strawn, who spearheaded the … [Read More...]

The Homecoming Project

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Where returning citizens find a warm welcome in the homes of local residents People with room for a boarder are helping provide housing for some former California prisoners. The Homecoming program was launched in 2018 in Alameda County to provide formerly incarcerated people places to live — with plans to expand across the United … [Read More...]

In-Depth: From Eastern Europe, Alexandru Singuru

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Alex is an Eastern European native of Moldova, and his family migrated to Sacramento when he was ten. He went to Highlands High School, playing volleyball, tennis, soccer and cross country running – his favorite sport. At 15, he started playing basketball just to stay in shape, however, he fell in love with the game and has played it ever … [Read More...]

They risk their lives for as little as $2.90 a day

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California's prisoners firefighters receive little benefit for their service on the fire lines More than 3,000 California prisoners help fight the state’s wildfires and are paid well below minimum wages. Inmates who work on active fires are paid between $2.90 and $5.12 a day, and get an additional $1 an hour during an active emergency, … [Read More...]

Hamilton meets Marin Shakespeare at San Quentin

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Renowned acting company finds emotional connection with incarcerated actors Cast and crew members from the Broadway San Francisco production of Hamilton reconnected with the San Quentin community at the Oct. 11 Marin Shakespeare performance. First visiting the historic and innovative prison in June, this time the Hamilton gang filled an … [Read More...]

California law paves the way for ex-felons to serve on juries

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The California jury system came a major step closer to fairly representing their communities and the criminal defendants they deliberate over thanks to newly signed Senate Bill 310. Starting in 2020, most former felons who have served their time and been discharged from parole or probation will no longer be excluded from jury service. “Over … [Read More...]

Alameda County top prosecutor in favor of rehabilitation

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One of California’s top prosecutors says it’s important to keep deserving persons out of prison and to help deserving incarcerated people build a successful life upon release. Progress toward rehabilitation and strengthening reentry programs for “justice involved” people was discussed at San Quentin by Alameda County District Attorney Nancy … [Read More...]

The visionary who resurrected San Quentin News

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Eleven years ago, former San Quentin warden Robert Ayers Jr. pulled the San Quentin News from the dust heap and revitalized the inmate-run publication more than 20 years after it had been officially suspended. Ayers’ decision was a gamble. But it paid off to the benefit of thousands of prisoners and other readers around the world who learn … [Read More...]

Family, community and music fill Makahiki celebration

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Sixty men in “Ocean Pacific Blue” along with 24 community members attended an annual Hawaiian celebration called Makahiki, in San Quentin’s Visiting Room on October 4. Family members drove hundreds of miles to celebrate the feast. “I’ve been to a lot of prisons and there is nowhere like this. It’s all about family and community,” said Louis … [Read More...]

Twelve CDCR prisons are in dire need of repair

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Don Spector, Director of the Prison Law Office: “Prisons are literally crumbling” Twelve of California’s oldest prisons are in need of repair or replacement, according a state-commissioned study recently made public. San Quentin State Prison, California’s oldest prison, built in 1852, is one of the 12 prisons that has “exceeded (its) … [Read More...]

San Quentin workers donate more than $7,000 to non-profits

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San Quentin workers donated more than $7,000 of their paychecks to two non- profit organizations selected by Warden Ron Davis that serve young people in the San Francisco Bay Area. “I took so much from society. Now I can give back,” said Ronald Bruce Carter at the Oct. 15 check presentation. Tracy Herrmann said, “It’s a big difference from … [Read More...]

Air Force vet commits to working with youth organizations

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Will VanBrackle served his country in the U.S. Air Force. Now he serves the Bay Area youth community by helping the kids of incarcerated parents through Project Avary—and by volunteering as a KidCAT facilitator inside San Quentin. A troubled youth himself, VanBrackle faced his own life struggles before finding a path to being of service. “As a … [Read More...]

A journey of recovery and reclamation for Officer Calvo

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Before coming to San Quentin, Correctional Officer Calvo was homeless and living on the streets, alcohol ruining his life. Calvo described himself as a functional alcoholic, who held a job, but was drunk all the time. Due to the progressive nature of alcoholism, his problem got worse over time. Calvo, who is retiring after 18 years at … [Read More...]

Filmmaking team premierès College Behind Bars at SQ

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Acclaimed filmmakers Sarah Botstein and Lynn Novick brought their latest effort, College Behind Bars, to San Quentin for a premierè screening organized through SQ’s Prison University Project (PUP) on Sept. 18. Shot on location inside several east coast correctional facilities, the documentary examines the struggles and triumphs of incarcerated … [Read More...]

TRUST facilitators go home but find new blood to lead

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Great companies and organizations are the ones that can stand the test of time and San Quentin’s T.R.U.S.T rehabilitative group is one of those programs. The transformative group hosted its 14th Annual San Quentin T.R.U.S.T Graduation Ceremony and banquet. The October 10 event honored more than 60 people graduating from three different … [Read More...]

11 annual Walk for a Cure

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A sea of pink flooded the San Quentin Lower Yard as more than 100 prisoners and dozens of volunteers enjoyed a sunny fall weekend to support the fight against cancer. They joined to build, serve and inspire their SQ community in the 11th annual “Walk for a Cure.” “We begin with a lap of silence to remember those we have lost to cancer and show … [Read More...]

Raising awareness during 2nd annual Mental Wellness Week

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—Joe Garcia —David Ditto and Anthony Faulk contributed Incarcerated and outside members of the San Quentin community joined forces to emotionally support one another and raise awareness during the prison’s second annual Mental Wellness Week. “This week is about all of us coming together to encourage hope—no one should feel they have to go … [Read More...]

No More Tears violence prevention program originates from the heart

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As the sun was setting on San Quentin, dozens of incarcerated men and Bay Area citizens gathered in the Protestant Chapel to break bread, on Sept. 14, in celebration of No More Tears, a violence prevention program. Mick Gardner, executive director of the program established in 2002, revealed that in the last three years, 43 participants of No … [Read More...]

San Quentin News staff member David Lê paroles after 13 years

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In prison, David B. Lê, 35, is known to many as “the professor.” After serving close to 13 years of a 40-years-to-life sentence, he paroled from San Quentin in July. “David is a young guy with an old soul,” said Tien, an inmate who did not give his full name. “I already miss talking to David and hearing his not-his-age, insightful advice. I’m … [Read More...]

Professional healthcare workers showed up at San Quentin

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Personal well-being was the theme of the day at San Quentin’s 16th Annual Health Fair. A diverse array of professionals from the healthcare industry ventured inside the walls of San Quentin to educate the incarcerated about physical and mental health. “Everybody matters and their health should be valued,” said nurse Mike, a volunteer, “I’ve … [Read More...]

Celebrating a community led by peaceful intention

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The 2019 Day of Peace Celebration was a festival of music and healing featuring dynamic outsider performers and San Quentin talent. “This music brings tears to my eyes. It’s touching my soul, lowering my anxiety and depression,” said inmate J.O. Chisom. “It’s saving me from my inner thoughts as we speak.” “I feel blessed every time I come … [Read More...]

Concert showcases Mad Mama, the Bona Fide Few, and the Bangers

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The sounds of guitar riffs being shredded and vintage rock ’n’ roll rang throughout San Quentin’s Lower Yard for the prison’s annual Rock Concert. The July 27 event showcased Mad Mama and the Bona Fide Few and punk rock band the Bangers. Mad Mama’s band hails from San Francisco and the Bangers made the trip from Sacramento. The lively … [Read More...]

Oakland Police Chief delivers apology at SQ Barbershop Forum

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Oakland Police Chief Jane Kirkpatrick delivered an encouraging message of respect, hope and an apology for law enforcement misdeeds to more than 200 San Quentin prisoners looking forward to freedom. “We have a future and hope together,” Kirkpatrick said. “You will be given an opportunity for restoration and you will be welcomed home. “When … [Read More...]

Power Source group commemorates first-ever YOP graduation

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San Quentin youth offenders came together on their own—in a grassroots ceremony on June 23, to commemorate the first-ever graduating cycle of the Power Source curriculum. Institutional glitches delayed the officially scheduled graduation in May. But, the incarcerated members of BE-IT (Benefitting Each Individual Together) wanted to make sure … [Read More...]

Town Hall addresses the arrival of deaf prisoners

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San Quentin State Prison will begin housing deaf prisoners, state officials report. “They just want to be a part of the education and self-help pro- grams you enjoy here,” said Kelly Mitchell, assistant deputy director for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR). The transfers to San Quentin are the result of … [Read More...]

Robert E. Burton receives first ever Distinguished School award

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The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation’s (CDCR) Office of Correctional Education (OCE) presented its first ever Distinguished School award to the Robert E. Burton Adult School at San Quentin State Prison in July. An award ceremony was held at the prison to acknowledge “exemplary achievements” the school has made above all … [Read More...]

Ken Burns brings Country Music to SQ

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Ken Burns came to the San Quentin chapel and delivered an exclusive prison screening of his latest American gospel, Country Music. The July 24 visit brought prisoners up close and personal with the legendary filmmaker and two of his Florentine Films teammates, writer and co-producers Julie Dunfey and Dayton Duncan. “I feel like I’ve met … [Read More...]

An emerging class of peacemakers from San Quentin

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Restorative justice program GRIP continues its legacy of healing with its newest grads After examining their lives, past traumas, their crimes and taking account- ability of it all, nearly 150 incarcerated men underwent a “rite of passage” in San Quentin’s visiting room that ended with the men pledging to live as peacemakers. Guiding Rage … [Read More...]

Getting a rare second chance in prison: How one youthful offender reclaimed his life with the help of others

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Ryan Dietz arrived at San Quentin in 2016 ready to succumb to all the usual pitfalls that await youth of- fenders—substance abuse, cellphone activity and peer- pressured violence. Instead, the 19-year-old found a supportive community of mentors and positive role models that guided him onto a better path and a brighter future. Dietz paroled from … [Read More...]

A walk on the yard sends youth to camp

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“We march in solidarity, we all are behind bars,” were the lyrics of a rap song that blared through a massive speaker on San Quentin’s Lower Yard. The song captured the voices and themes of SQ Project Avary’s 3rd Annual “March for the Next Generation.” The June 22 event had inmate Philippe “Kells” Kelly and Eric McCanty of Project Avary … [Read More...]

California’s out-state prisoners brought back

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The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation announced that it has ended the practice of housing prisoners in out-of-state facilities. But San Quentin inmates who have served time in private lockups say those prisons are much better than California institutions, even though they dislike the separation from their families. “I … [Read More...]

Hamilton cast and crew visits San Quentin

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The world proved wide enough for San Quentin prisoners and the San Francisco production of Hamilton to come together as one community. At the invitation of SQNews adviser Jan Perry, members of the cast and crew welcomed the June 21 opportunity to take a quick tour of the prison while getting acquainted with some of its incarcerated residents. … [Read More...]

Quentin Cooks culinary program serves up big audience

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A documentary filmmaker spent a year in San Quentin filming a cooking program as it progressed. He found that learning high-end culinary arts changed the way incarcerated people see the world. “The guys really talk about the pride of cooking for the other guys,” said filmmaker Santhosh Daniel, “When you cook for someone else and put your soul … [Read More...]

Prison to Employment Connection prepares men for the workforce

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Prison to Employment Connection (PEC) at San Quentin graduated 44 men from its ninth session in June. The week before graduation, more than 40 business, career and education professionals attended Employer Day at the prison to do one-on-one interviews with the men. PEC’s 15-week program prepares men to be “job ready” before paroling. According … [Read More...]

Get On The Bus unites families at SQ

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The laughter, tears and warm embraces of family reunions filled the San Quentin visiting rooms during the day-long Get On The Bus (GOTB) event on Friday, May 31. Daughters, sons and grandchildren reconnected with their incarcerated fathers and grandfathers after years—even decades—of separation. Get On The Bus supports family relationships … [Read More...]

Jesse Vasquez, SQN former editor-in-chief paroled

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Jesse Vasquez, 36, former editor-in-chief of San Quentin News, paroled in late May from San Quentin State Prison after spending all of his adult years in prison and a little more than half his life. Vasquez paroled with a different state of mind from the one his 17-year-old younger self arrived with in 2001. “When I was a teenager, I knew I … [Read More...]

Upcoming Events for San Quentin in July

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San Quentin Day of Peace July 13th Lower Yard Ken Burns documentary July 24th Protestant Chapel 11:00-1:00pm San Quentin Barbershop Dialogue July 26th Protestant Chapel 10:00-3:00pm San Quentin Education Graduation July 26th San Quentin Yard Show July 27th Lower Yard … [Read More...]

The Beat Within celebrates 21 years of giving youth a voice

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For the past five years, Dave Inocencio has been coming to San Quentin to lead a writing workshop for The Beat Within publication that he started 21 years ago in San Francisco. He got involved with San Quentin through Karen Drucker, who, at the time, worked with the KID CAT program and emailed him asking him to be a part of it. The first time he … [Read More...]

San Quentin A’s Season Opener

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With 2 ceremonial pre- game pitches, one by an octogenarian, and a national anthem complete with the presentation of the Stars and Bars, the San Quentin Athletics opened their season with a 16-3 thrashing of the San Francisco Mission on 4/20/2019. “It feels good to get back to the game that we love,” said Branden Riddle-Terrell, veteran A’s … [Read More...]

Public Defender Brendon Woods visits SQ

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Brendon Woods, Alameda County’s Chief Public Defender, knows that prisoners take a dim view of lawyers from the PD’s office. And he wants to change that. Woods, 48, and a native New Yorker, is the only Black chief public defender among the 58 California counties. He visited San Quentin and met with inmates and discussed how to make California … [Read More...]

Navigating the unexpected: Improv offers critical life skills

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Roars of laughter filled the classroom as the Prison University Project (PUP) Improv Troupe put on the last of two performances for the spring semester. The April 19 show was a result of everything that the students learned in the Improv for Life class. “Everything that you are about to see has not been planned; it has not been rehearsed; it … [Read More...]

Criminal canines given reprieve through rehabilitation at SQ

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In the County of Marin, some animals that are stigmatized because they are pit bulls are given a second chance. Mack is one of those dogs. He was afforded the opportunity to be trained and prepared for adoption through the Pen Pals program—a 14-year alliance between San Quentin State Prison and the Marin Humane Society. The program connects dogs … [Read More...]

Program helps at risk youth through music

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John Wallace went to jail and prison19 times, starting at age 18. Then he was sent to San Quentin, where he served two terms and started writing rap lyrics on his last trip there in the prison’s West Block. An initial opening to a career in music happened by chance when Wallace and other inmates created what he described as a “radio show” called … [Read More...]

Editorial: Marcus Henderson

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I am proud to have worked and walked the journey of prison journalism with a remarkable group of men for the past five years. These dedicated men have produced the award winning San Quentin News while also balancing college and rehabilitative programs. That hard work has paid off for some of those in the newsroom: Six of our fellow staff members … [Read More...]

Wall City Volume 2: If you want it all – look here!

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Everyone who donates $40 or more to San Quentin News this year will get a free gift – a full color 32-page Wall City magazine Volume 2– written and created by inmates. This is the second volume of Wall City – the San Quentin News publication focused on keeping you informed on criminal justice and rehabilitation issues. The all-new spring … [Read More...]

Programas de rehabilitación dan esperanzas a reos

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La estrategia del departamento de correcciones de California para comenzar un programa de rehabilitación más efectivo ha dado como resultado las Undesignated Yards. Estas unidades son para aquellos reos que han decidido abandonar las pandillas o simplemente buscan una oportunidad de salir de prisión. El programa comenzó en el 2018 en la prisión … [Read More...]

San Quentin’s 52nd annual Native American Pow Wow

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Native American spiritual leaders from across California and the na- tion brought the spirit of family and the traditional healing dances to San Quentin’s 52nd annual Pow Wow. Colorful dancers from Oklahoma and elders from Oregon mixed with the local Native American prisoners to celebrate the sacred circle of life. “We came to let the men … [Read More...]

Google attends San Quentin mixer

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The morning of April 11 started with fun and games with participants from Google.org and incarcerated coding students as a way to socialize. The first game, the circle name game, an icebreaker consisted of everyone yelling out his or her name and that of the person next to them as fast as possible, which was easy to see that the day was going to … [Read More...]

Dr. Gabor Maté lectures at SQ’s Enneagram event

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Once a week, Susan Olesek comes inside San Quentin to help incarcerated men discover the roots of their personalities and how it plays into the way they see everyday life. The program she oversees helps men realize how life experiences mold personalities and how negative experiences create behaviors that turn into serious problems. Gabor Maté … [Read More...]

Kid CAT’s hygiene drive raises money for homeless youth

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A group of San Quentin prisoners collected money and hygiene items for Bay Area homeless youths.  “Even in prison, guys got that spirit of giving,” said Gregory “Eagle” Coates, a member of the youth offender organization Kid CAT.  “It’s always rewarding, especially for the guys that’ve had the experience of being homeless kids … [Read More...]

The cost of reputation in prison: being transgender in prison

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The purpose of earning a reputation in prison is for one reason—survival. However, the cost of survival may take extreme forms.  “When I first came to prison in the 80s, being a transgender meant being someone’s property. We would be used to carry weapons, for sex, to wash and clean dirty workout clothes, but, in that we were also well … [Read More...]

Prisoners contributed their input on criminal justice reform

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Criminal justice reform took center stage at a San Quentin State Prison forum that brought together inmates, social justice advocates, formerly incarcerated citizens and public officials. “Reform has to change, as we all together are changing,” said Assemblymember Timothy Grayson, D-14th District, Concord. “We all still are rehabilitating. … [Read More...]

Ida B. Wells: early Black journalist and activist

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Before Black Lives Matter, and before former San Francisco 49er Colin Kaepernick took a knee, there was Ida B. Wells. She was a pioneering journalist with a social conscience who laid the foundations of resistance to racial injustice and violence against Black people. “Out of their own mouths, murderers shall be condemned,” wrote Wells in A Red … [Read More...]

Eight emerging artists turn chapel into raucous concert hall

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On an otherwise quiet Sunday evening, nine guitars rang out in harmony and transformed San Quentin’s Catholic Chapel into a raucous concert hall. “This was a great opportunity for us to communicate musically with no boundaries and just let our hair down,” said volunteer instructor Kurt Huget. He showcased eight emerging artists from his weekly … [Read More...]

The ladies of Beauty Behind Bars return to San Quentin

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An all-women’s organization, aimed at inspiring incarcerated people to overcome their despair and anger, visited San Quentin on Nov. 3 for the second time in two years. “There is beauty in any and all situations,” said founder Tiffany Love-Harden inside the Inter-Faith Chapel on the Saturday afternoon. “My bars may be different from your bars, … [Read More...]

Kid CAT Chairman Si Dang’s 2019 youth address

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For many of us who are incarcerated, the ultimate dream is freedom. The question of whether we will achieve that dream, however, often lies in our pursuit of it.  My name is Si Dang, and I am the new chairman of Kid CAT. Over the last 22 years, I have pursued my freedom in a variety of ways, many of them dysfunctional and leading me right … [Read More...]

SQ Shakespeare troupe performs skits about trauma and healing

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Nine original skits put modern personal trauma and healing on full display this past October.  The audience discovers how Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors had inspired a troupe of actors to present original works of how trauma is passed down across generations until a choice is made to heal. The troupe used intimate personal skits to express … [Read More...]

Incarcerated student challenges educators at national conference

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 An incarcerated Black college student challenged the nation’s prison educators to rethink how they consistently force predominant White cultural perspectives onto the non-Whites who fill their classrooms. James King’s voice reached across the country to Indianapolis by way of video, where he introduced an academic paper he co-authored with … [Read More...]

CALPIA GM Chuck Pattillo retires

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 The longest serving general manager in the history of the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA), Charles L. “Chuck” Pattillo is stepping down from that post, but will still assist incarcerated people prepare for good jobs, once released. Pattillo’s effort continue to save taxpayers hundreds of millions of dollars in incarceration … [Read More...]

Queens of the Stone Age, Deadsy & Queeny King rock out at SQ

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San Quentin is still on many great musicians’ “must” list of places to perform. Queens of the Stone Age, Queeny King and Deadsy are now among the legends such as Johnny Cash, Carlos Santana and Metallica that have rocked the prison. The Nov. 16 rock concert was the final leg of the “Villains World Tour 2018” for the Queens of the Stone Age. … [Read More...]

Kid CAT banquet honors the forgotten voices of youth

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Kid CAT celebrated the “forgotten voices” of youth at its 2018 annual banquet. “Tonight’s Banquet was about bringing awareness to the youths, who think that their voices are not being heard and are afraid to express how they feel to their parents or caretakers,” said Si Dang, Kid CAT chairman. Kid CAT is a group of men who committed their … [Read More...]

21st century solutions to 20th century problems

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They came from all over the prison and the nation. Scholars dressed in standard blue prison uniforms walked down a staircase that leads from the cellblocks, while a group of civilians hiked down a ramp that leads from a courtyard just inside the entrance to the prison to meet on the San Quentin Lower Yard for the Prison University Project’s first … [Read More...]

Senator and author share challenge of passing SB 1437

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It’s hard to get laws changed, even harder to make any revisions applicable to people already serving their time, nevertheless Senator Nancy Skinner (D-Berkeley) retroactively transformed California’s felony-murder law with the help of the Re:store Justice organization and others. “Retroactivity was the hardest part, yet it was essential because … [Read More...]

Florida hosts prison reform conference – FICPFM

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More than 50 social justice organizations led by formerly incarcerated people met in Orlando, Fla., last month. The occasion was the second national gathering of the Formerly Incarcerated, Convicted People & Families Movement ( FICPFM ). The first national gathering took place in Oakland in 2016. By Andrew Beale Contributing Writer The … [Read More...]

50 men graduate from California Re-entry Institute

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The idea behind the California Re-entry Institute (CRI) is to begin the re-integration process in prison and continue support services once released. The 18-24-month-to-the- gate program recently graduated more than 50 men in San Quentin State Prison’s Garden Chapel on Sept. 7 from its two programs of Crime Impact Awareness and Empowered … [Read More...]

CCWP advocates mount a fight to end LWOP

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Advocates are mounting a fight to end the other death penalty—life without the possibility of parole. These “hidden death sentences” mean prisoners must live the rest of their lives in “prisons with extraordinarily high suicide rates, with substandard medical, dental, and mental health care and with scant rehabilitative programs. Prisons rife with … [Read More...]

Law enforcement and prisoners come together in Barbershop Dialogue

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Law enforcement personnel and incarcerated men met in San Quentin’s Protestant Chapel on Sept. 21 for a first-of-its-kind forum. The idea came from the 2009 New Year’s Eve killing of Oscar Grant by a BART police officer. Jack Bryson’s two sons were with Grant. “That incident made me become a community organizer,” Bryson said in an interview with … [Read More...]

Project Avary march

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When a parent winds up behind bars, the children suffer the stigma of that incarceration. That was the message from Project Avary attending San Quentin’s 2nd Annual “March for the Next Generation.” The Sept. 8 march brought together prisoners and young adults, who have been affected by having an incarcerated parent. Project Avary (Alternative … [Read More...]

S.Q. Warriors take trophy back

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The San Quentin Warriors won again! For the second straight year, the prison’s premiere basketball team beat the Golden State Warriors squad of staffers 93-85 in a community atmosphere that featured NBA-playoff intensity. The victory had particular significance for San Quentin power forward Harry “ATL” Smith, who paroled a few days after the … [Read More...]

SQ's 2018 graduating class thanked D. Searle

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Families gathered to celebrate their loved ones’ accomplishments at the Robert E. Burton Adult School annual graduation ceremony, held on July 20 in San Quentin’s main visiting room. “This is the first time I’ve been able to complete any type of vocational program,” said Francisco Ortiz, a graduate from the Vocational Plumbing class. “I’m proud … [Read More...]

Former prisoner honored for his achievements

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John Valverde, 50, went from the prison cell to the executive suite, having an occupation listed as “convict,” to an occupation of “CEO.” Now chief executive officer of YouthBuild USA Inc., Val- verde was named winner of the 2018 Brian S. Fischer Achievement Award. “It was amazing to be in a room with so many people who guided me and mentored me … [Read More...]

Common visits SQ music program

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David Jassy playing music for Common and guests Hip-hop artist Rashid “Common” Lynn heard about the positive music being produced from prison by David Jassy, a Grammy-nominated Swedish rapper and producer, and came into San Quentin to meet about a collaborative project. “He has a genuine interest in prison reform,” Jassy said. “They heard about the … [Read More...]

Grammy Winner LeCrae Moore’s inspirational message

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Two-time Grammy-winning rapper LeCrae Moore used a hip-hop performance at San Quentin State Prison on July 24 to deliver inspirational messages and show his Christian faith in action. “On a personal level, I’m here because I have family behind prison walls: my father, my uncle,” LeCrae said.“I’m attracted to being around people I feel like society … [Read More...]

Susan Burton advocating for justice

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Susan Burton was exactly where she wanted to be that day in May— back in prison. It had been twenty years since her last incarceration but this time, she wasn’t in the California Institute for Women (CIW) to serve time. She was there to talk. “Your life matters,” she told her audience of 100 inmates before signing copies of her book for the women. … [Read More...]

29 years in prison is enough for Mike Webb

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After six parole hearings and 29 years in prison, Mike Webb, a beloved Kid CAT member, was found suitable for parole. “Mike Webb is one of the most compassionate and committed persons that I know,” said Charlie Spence, Kid CAT Chairman. “We will all miss him very much, because he has been such a positive impact in our group and in this … [Read More...]

Eddie Hart shares his gold medal experiences

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Eddie Hart, a 1972 Olympic gold medalist, likes to go where he feels the love. He returned to San Quentin State Prison July 20 for the 11th annual Eddie Hart-Ralph Ligons Track Meet to share his time, story and running tips. “When I first came here, I was a bit concerned for my safety,” the 69-year-old Hart said. “Now I look forward to seeing the … [Read More...]

21st Century programs graduate apprentices

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More than a dozen inmates sat in the front row of a prison chapel on June 15 to graduate from one of three well-regarded 21st century training programs. Looking past the graduates to the men who had recently arrived in San Quentin, Warden Ron Davis said, “those of you not familiar with this prison, the guys in blue, this is a celebration of great … [Read More...]

High Desert Prison warden sets the record straight

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By some accounts, High Desert State Prison is one of California’s most notorious penitentiaries. Warden Marion E. Spearman wants to clear up that impression. He argues that the prison, its staff and inmates have undergone change. It’s no longer a prison that just houses young men with youth management problems. “There’s a new vision and mission for … [Read More...]

The show goes on for SQ Shakespeareans

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Drama therapy was in full display on May 18 as a nine-day quarantine ended at San Quentin for inmate performers in the Shakespeare play King Lear — a week later, the prison was on normal program for Comedy of Errors. “First, I was in shock,” said Jason Robinson about West Block getting off the quarantine. “But, Steve Emrick (Community Partnership … [Read More...]

PUP grads take center stage

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“Pomp and Circumstance” played and everyone stood to applaud the Prison University Project’s (PUP) class of 2018 as they took center stage in San Quentin State Prison’s visiting room in June. Nine men graduated and received their Associative Arts degree from Patten University. One of the graduates, Gerald Morgan, welcomed his 98-year-old aunt, … [Read More...]

Voting rights for people with criminal convictions

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Who in California currently has the right to vote? Eligible voters are citizens of the United States, 18 years of age or older as of Election Day. But, what if you’ve been arrested or have a conviction? “Many Californians mistakenly believe a criminal conviction keeps them from voting. Politicians bet on that fact to win elections,” according to … [Read More...]

21 graduates ready to reenter the workforce

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Twenty-two inmates graduated from the Prison to Employment Connection’s (PEC) seventh session at San Quentin State Prison in May. A week before graduation, the men did face-to-face interviews with employers looking to hire qualified formerly incarcerated citizens. More than 40 men enrolled in the program in February to learn about interview skills, … [Read More...]

New bill keeps youth offenders out of adult prisons

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Human Rights Watch (HRW) continues to back legislation that gives youthful offenders a second chance at life after committing serious crimes. Most recently, law changes in California have allowed offenders who were under age 25 when they committed the crime to seek a sentence review after serving between 15 and 25 years— depending on the category … [Read More...]

Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) aids programs

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  The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative (CZI) will provide grant funding to the Prison University Project (PUP) and Ear Hustle, an award-winning podcast. Both organizations are based at San Quentin State Prison. PUP offers more than 350 inmates the opportunity to earn their Associate of Arts degree inside prison. Ear Hustle allows inmates to share … [Read More...]

Transforming former inmates with “A Man Like Me”

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From the prison to the streets, the transformation of a man. That’s the subject of “A Man Like Me” – a play created by four former prisoners taking advantage of “The Dads Back!” Academy and TheatreWorkers Project. The academy is a reentry organization, run by Friends Outside Los Angeles County (FOLA), using theater to reintegrate parolees and … [Read More...]

Judy Appel talks justice

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Berkeley Unified School District board member Judy Appel sat down with San Quentin News to brainstorm on solutions to criminal justice issues that she can take to Sacramento, if she wins an assembly seat this fall. “I’m very concerned about our criminal justice system and the way we lock people up for really long times,” Appel said. “We put people … [Read More...]

A look inside the bustling San Quentin prison library

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Every day, the San Quentin State prison library is bustling with activity. Inmates might be ordering books from the clerks at the counter. Other inmates might be sitting at tables, reading books and talking among themselves. The windows in the librarians’ offices provide a glimpse of San Francisco Bay as well as the mountains. In the legal … [Read More...]

Grammy award winning Zuill Bailey performs in SQ

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A Grammy Award-winning cellist, Zuill Bailey, performed an hour-long concert at San Quentin State Prison’s Protestant Chapel. Bailey is considered one of the premier cellists in the world, and yet he decided to play before an audience of prisoners, staff and volunteers in a place where few artists have ever set foot. After achieving so much … [Read More...]

OptionB.Org Support Group Overcoming Incarceration

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OptionB.org believes in the power of community to help people heal. We want to break the silence and isolation that often surrounds adversity. To do that, we’re growing a community that shows people they are not in it alone. To join the Overcoming the effects of incarceration group for support, your loved ones can visit optionb.org/groups. Key … [Read More...]

Life of crime overturned by positive choices

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A variety of rehabilitative programs, including dance, helped Anouthinh Pangthong turn his life around despite a rocky youth and 21 years in prison since the age of 15. “Life in prison can become tedious, doing the same thing over and over. Sparks of violence would break the monotony. When an opportunity came to do something different through … [Read More...]

UC Davis combats prison stigmas with Beyond the Stats

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To combat the stigmas facing formerly incarcerated people at the University of California Davis, two students established the Beyond the Stats program to help the newly returning citizens adjust to college life. The founders of the program, Tina Curiel-Allen and Daniel Mendoza, were also formerly incarcerated. The two established the support group … [Read More...]

SQ parolee serves up more than just coffee in Antioch

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Coffee entrepreneur John Krause can relate to the slim employment prospects most ex-cons face upon parole. As a former San Quentin inmate himself, Krause spent over a decade in and out of prison before opening Big House Beans (BHB). Based in Antioch, BHB’s production facility now roasts thousands of pounds of premium gourmet coffee beans per … [Read More...]

Queeny King performs at SQ

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At age 8, singer-song writer Queeny King sang in a Soviet Union prison. In March, she performed at San Quentin State Prison. Dressed in black bell-bottom pants with buttons along the side and wearing a black blazer with a shiny brown blouse, King put on a look that, on its face, could have been interpreted as belonging to rock, goth, punk or the … [Read More...]

Folsom’s Insight Garden Project

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California women prisoners are learning to go “green” as they gain skills in garden design and environmental education through the award-winning Insight Garden Program (IGP). Folsom Women’s Facility (FWF) and Central California Women’s Facility (also known as Chowchilla) have been added to the IGP’s long list of prisons that are finding … [Read More...]

Death Row inmate freed after serving more than 25 years

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A man who spent 27 years on Death Row walked out the prison gates on April 17, 2018. “He appeared amazed to be on the other side of the wall,” Public Information Officer Lt. Sam Robinson said. About eight people, including family members and his attorney, awaited Vicente Benavides as he exited the prison as a free man. Decades earlier, a Kern … [Read More...]

Youth offenders graduate Pre-Apprentice Program

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STOCKTON -- Ten youth offenders graduated with a marketable job skill after completing the first Pre-Apprentice Construction Labor Program at the N.A. Chaderjian Youth Correctional Facility. After completing six months of preparation, the young men were certified for construction work and possible union membership, according to the Stockton … [Read More...]

Santa Clara DA discusses solutions to crime

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Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen did something few prosecutors would have the guts to do. He went inside San Quentin and walked across its prison yard, in order to sit down with several inmates to talk about ways to keep the streets free of crime. Rosen’s Feb. 16 visit was not his first. In 2014, he and several members of his staff … [Read More...]

Running from the prison cell to public office

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‘Should we bear the burden of our past when our present has been involved in fixing the future?’ Lewis Conway Jr., a formerly incarcerated man, is challenging disenfranchisement by running for public office in Austin, Texas. “We want people with arrests and convictions to engage in the democratic process,” Bill Cobb, deputy director of the American … [Read More...]

NY’s Hudson Link graduates women

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Incarcerated women made history when they graduated for the first time from a prison college program in New York state. Five women prisoners and one formerly incarcerated woman at the Taconic Correctional Facility received their associate degrees bestowed by Hudson Link for Higher Education in Prison. Intimate partner violence accounts for 15 … [Read More...]

Billing inmates $600 by medical provider-CCHCS

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Men who received treatment from hospitals outside the prison were surprised to receive medical bills along with a notice that they had to pay for those services. A 2006 federal court order put California prisoners’ medical care in the hands of the California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS). CCHCS’s budget includes more than $350 million … [Read More...]

Singer/songwriter Neda Boin brings inspiration to SQ

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There is a way to change anger and fear to love, singer-songwriter Neda Boin told an audience of San Quentin prisoners and outside guests. For her, it came after completing A Course in Miracles. Boin came from the Netherlands to release songs from her new album, The Light Has Come, at San Quentin State Prison. About 100 guests attended the February … [Read More...]

New California youth offender bills

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California legislators are introducing two new bills that will affect accomplices of felony murder and youth offenders under SB 260, 261, and AB 1308. The first bill, SB 1437, introduced by Senator Nancy Skinner, will set forth new guidelines for sentencing (certain) accomplices of murder.  “This bill would prohibit malice from being imputed to a … [Read More...]

Robot Chatbot Lawyer for Refugees

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Robolawyer-chatbot tool to complete anti-deportation and immigration paperwork. The use of robolawyer-chatbots promises to be a significant advance in social justice, its supporters say. As with Airbnb and Uber, new artificial intelligence technologies have transformed many industries in the past few years. Now they are seeking to transform legal … [Read More...]

Deportation Crimes Explained

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In Trump’s first six months of 2017, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested more than 65,000 immigrants, up 37.6 percent from the same period last year, reports The Washington Post. Almost three out of four of those arrested have criminal records. Immigration advocates question whether ICE is truly prioritizing the most serious … [Read More...]

ROOTS graduates learn inter-generational trauma

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The audience cried and laughed with recent graduates of the Restoring Our Original True Selves (ROOTS) program as they told stories of healing generations of intergenerational trauma and jokes. “For a lot of groups coming from refugee and war-torn situations that have strong disconnections with the generations before them, intergeneration trauma is … [Read More...]

Women complete culinary program

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Eleven inmates graduated from the first Culinary Arts Management program at Folsom Women’s Facility. Vincent Moralez, supervisor of the program, and Jason Doolittle, adjunct professor and executive chef, started the program in 2017 and taught their students everything from serving to cooking, as well as restaurant management, reported The Folsom … [Read More...]

United States leads world in locking up women report

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Individual states of the U.S., along with the federal government, lead the world in putting women behind bars, according to a 2017 report by the Prison Policy Initiative (PPI). Women in the U.S. represent only 5 percent of the world’s female population, but account for nearly 30 percent of the world’s imprisoned women, cites the report, titled The … [Read More...]

Code.7370 host Lance Armstrong

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In a small classroom with popular catch phrases like Think Different and Believe in the Process on its walls, about two dozen San Quentin prisoners waited for a surprise guest—the world-renowned, once top cyclist, Lance Armstrong. “I’ve never been in jail. But I know what it’s like to run afoul of the system,” Armstrong said, on Jan. 11, to inmates … [Read More...]

Veterans’ 29th annual Toys-for-Tots giveaway

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The holiday spirit enriched the Main Visiting Room for five days in December. For two consecutive weekends, the fully decorated seven-foot Christmas tree was the busiest place at San Quentin. Inmates and their families took pictures in front of it. For the 29th consecutive year, Marines from the San Bruno Recruitment Station donated toys for … [Read More...]

San Quentin News’ Senior Editor honored

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For giving a voice to the voiceless, Juan Haines, the San Quentin News senior editor, was honored with The Silver Heart Award by the Northern California Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. “I was never after the gotcha story or the investigative piece trying to find corruption,” Haines said. “I just wanted to tell regular people’s … [Read More...]

Restoring a community through healing dialogue

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More than two dozen survivors of crime crossed the heavily riveted steel doors at San Quentin to face prisoners convicted of serious crimes, including murder. One of the key conclusions was that a healing dialogue is needed to improve communication between survivors and perpetrators. The event was held Oct. 27-28 in the Protestant Chapel. … [Read More...]

Reconstructing lives through vocational training

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Greg Venegas is helping San Quentin prisoners learn construction skills qualifying them to find excellent jobs when released. Venegas teaches in a program called Career Technical Education Construction Labor Program (CTE) that provides basic training with scissor lift, skip loader, Caterpillar, backhoe tractor, and digging hand ditches. He has … [Read More...]

Lt. Graham retires after four decades of service

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The big day arrives. The number one lieutenant is retiring from San Quentin State Prison. It’s Friday, Nov. 17, and Lt. Donald Graham walks into the Captain’s Porch at 7:03 a.m. as he has done for the past 10 years. “According to a RAND analysis, every $1 invested in such [inmate] education generates at least $4 in economic return,” reports Fast … [Read More...]

Living the good life after prison

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What does it take for a man coming out of prison to be successful in society? It took moral support from community members for formerly incarcerated Nathaniel A. Johnson, support such as that from Pastor Steve “Big Red” Sanderson. “The state typically spends $71,000 a year to house an inmate. It costs about $5,000 total to help put one … [Read More...]

Former San Quentin prisoner advocates for change

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While he was incarcerated, you would see Reginald “Reggie” Hola playing almost every sport, taking first in the Ironman contest or participating in groups aimed at self-betterment and helping the youth on the yard. After paroling and diving into social justice work, people driving around Oak Park, Sacramento, saw Hola’s face on a billboard … [Read More...]

Education organizations trade ideas at national conference

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Exchanging ideas on how to create educational opportunities for incarcerated people and reentry services was the topic of a national conference held in Texas last November. “It was a chance for our different organizations to support each other and think together on how to expand this field of prison education,” said Jody Lewen, executive director … [Read More...]

An evening of educational college entertainment

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While playing keyboard AJ Gonzales sang “Roses Instead,” as an audience of prisoners and community members made their way inside San Quentin’s Catholic Chapel on Dec. 29 for an open mic event. “San Quentin is the biggest program hub I’ve seen, since I’ve been in prison,” said Gonzales, 38, who has been in and out of prison and is scheduled to get … [Read More...]

FBI report reflects historical similarities

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The FBI in 1956 created its secret Counterintelligence Program—COINTELPRO—to take action against Black organizations viewed as subversive. Sixty-one years later, on Aug. 3, 2017, the FBI published an intelligence assessment titled Black Identity Extremists Likely Motivated to Target Law Enforcement Officers. The two FBI approaches had striking … [Read More...]

Racial undertones of America’s penal system

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After the 13th Amendment abolished slavery in the United States, one of the first steps toward the mass incarceration of African-Americans was the creation of Black Codes and Vagrancy Laws. “Virtually from the moment the Civil War ended, the search began for the legal subordinating of a volatile Black population that regarded economic independence … [Read More...]

San Francisco Opera debuts at San Quentin

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Add the San Francisco Opera (SFO) to the list of historic performances and celebrities that have passed through the infamous Bastille by the Bay – San Quentin State Prison. “Your facility has a rich musical history,” said Community Programs Manager Alyssa Stone, who introduced the SFO singers. She noted performances at San Quentin by B.B. King, … [Read More...]

100th edition celebration recognizes San Quentin News

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When the San Quentin News was revived nearly ten years ago, a staff of five put together a four-page issue and distributed it to 5,000 inmates inside the prison. Today, the newspaper has a circulation of 30,000, distributed at 36 prisons across the state as well as to individual inmates in 43 states. In addition to news stories and features, the … [Read More...]

CDCR’s Information Officer critiques SQ News

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One of San Quentin News’ biggest supporters is also its biggest critic. Krissi Khokhobashvili, information officer for California Department of Correction and Rehabilitation (CDCR), who worked for eight years as a journalist, reviews all of the newspaper’s stories, correcting grammar and fact-checking. If there are any mistakes, she’s the first … [Read More...]

Jill Brown reflects on her time as warden

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Former San Quentin Warden Jill Brown’s career allowed her to reinvent herself many times. In the process, she helped to improve the lives of inmates through rehabilitation. Brown started her career working at a state hospital. She later found her way to what was then the California Department of Corrections in San Francisco as a regional parole … [Read More...]

Addressing social justice inequalities

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A roundtable centering on social justice inequalities in America took place Dec. 12 between two unlikely groups at the most unlikely place. Earl Smith, San Francisco 49ers pastor, led a team of Bay Area sports personalities into San Quentin State Prison for a discussion with an audience of about 100 people, including inmates, community volunteers … [Read More...]

Prison to Employment Connection job readiness event

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The Prison to Employment Connection (PEC) program hosted its sixth job readiness event at San Quentin State Prison, allowing dozens of inmates, employers, unions, apprenticeship programs and career path organizations to meet face-to-face. Warden Ron Davis welcomed the employers and organizations, thanking them for their time. “At the end of the … [Read More...]

350 men honor Veteran’s Day at SQ

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Every year, the 11th day of the 11th month in the United States commemorates Veterans Day. It was no different in San Quentin for the more than 350 incarcerated men who once served in America’s armed forces. Nearly a dozen community supporters ventured inside the prison to pay their respect with about 50 of the incarcerated veterans who gathered in … [Read More...]

San Quentin’s Christmas caroling revives special memories

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Nostalgic feelings dampen many inmates’ lives during the holiday season, but Christmas caroling in San Quentin State Prison revives happy memories of home and lightens everyone’s mood. A few weeks before Christmas, prison volunteers, the Protestant Church choir and other inmates parade from building to building sharing the joy of the … [Read More...]

Fallen inmate firefighters and rescue response

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Prisoners around the nation rank high on the emergency first responders list when wildfires, hurricanes and other natural disasters strike the country, but are a low priority for rescue efforts, according to a 2017 report by Natural Hazards Observer. Critics say inmate firefighters are regarded as expendable. But California officials disagree. … [Read More...]

Ear Hustle wraps up first season with over six million downloads

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The hit podcast Ear Hustle, launched from inside a prison, started its first season with the goal of starting a dialogue about incarceration and humanizing people inside. With 6,268,176 downloads, it has achieved more than it ever dreamed. “I thought people would be interested, but I didn’t think it would be so big,” said co-host Professor Nigel … [Read More...]

Quentin Cooks gets standing ovation from 30 wardens

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                Thirty California prison wardens joined in a rare standing ovation for an extraordinary banquet prepared by inmates of the Quentin Cooks program. “I’ve never felt so proud,” one student said. The third graduating class, supported by graduates of the second class of the Quentin Cooks, earned … [Read More...]