IN THE COMMUNITY: Life stories from Mt. Tam College
HIDDEN GEMSContributed by MountTamalpais College What does it take to build a healthy community? We’ve been exploring this question by interviewing MTC alumni who are contributing to their communities in a variety of ways. This is the beginning of a series we’re calling In the Community, focusing on returning citizens and the impact they have … [Read More...]
HIV: Prevention, Testing and Treatment
Transitions Clinic Network (TCN) is a network of community health clinics that serve returning community members. TCN clinic programs are led by community health workers (CHWs) with lived experience of incarceration and reentry who support TCN patients with their healthcare and reentry. TCN hosts a monthly Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) column. … [Read More...]
Newsom to phase out Covid state of emergency
Gov. Gavin Newsom will discontinue the COVID-19 state of emergency order implemented in 2020, according to a report issued by the governor’s office on October 17, 2022, reported the Los Angeles Times Oct. 17. The State of Emergency gave Newsom broad powers to respond to the pandemic. It allowed him to issue masking and vaccination … [Read More...]
Study: Covid-induced neurological impairment could last two years
People infected by COVID-19 have increased threats of neurological and psychiatric damage up to two years after infection, Oxford University has reported. “We found that the risks of post-COVID neurological and psychiatric outcomes follow different trajectories: the risk of cognitive deficit, stroke, dementia, psychotic disorder, and … [Read More...]
DNC calls for release of indigenous rights activist
A major campaign is under way seeking freedom for Indigenous rights activist Leonard Peltier, who has been incarcerated for 46 years. The Democratic National Committee voted unanimously to pass a resolution urging President Joe Biden to grant clemency to Peltier, who is considered by many to be America’s longest-serving political … [Read More...]
Saying goodbye to a legend and embracing his legacy
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...]
DOJ faces backlash over lack of transparency in prisoner deaths
The Department of Justice is facing bipartisan criticism from U.S. senators for its lack of transparency in reporting deaths of incarcerated persons throughout the United States, according to the Oakland Post. Sens. Jon Ossoff (D-Georgia) and Ron Johnson (R-Wisconsin), members of the Senate’s Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations issued a … [Read More...]
Midterm election results suggest support for criminal justice reforms
Leading up to this year’s midterm elections, TV ads featured Republicans blaming Democrats and progressive prosecutors for rising crime rates. Republicans made the issue a major piece of their campaign platform, according to numerous media reports. Despite these attacks, progressive prosecutors and criminal justice reform supporters won … [Read More...]
Legal loopholes enable bail bond firms to avoid forfeiture payments
Some bail bonds companies in a few states pocket the money clients’ paid them instead of paying the court the amount of forfeited bail, the Prison Policy Initiative reports. This is enabled by legal loopholes that leave taxpayers on the hook for millions of dollars, according to the October 2022 story. Some state laws favor bail … [Read More...]
New law blocks prosecutors’ use of rap lyrics as evidence in criminal cases
California has a new law banning the use of a rap artist’s lyrics to prosecute crimes. Focus of the legislation was Anere Brown, also known as X-Raided, who spent 26 years in prison. In his trial the prosecution played lyrics from his rap records and tied them to the Sacramento murder of community activist Patricia Harris, the Sacramento … [Read More...]
CALIFORNIA – New laws to take effect Jan. 1
Eight bills signed intolaw; governor vetoes gatemoney, prisoner pay hike Following is an excerpt from Initiate Justice’s Policy Corner - Reprinted with permission The following bills are not being sponsored by Initiate Justice but could materially impact the lives of incarcerated people. We are not sponsors of these bills, so please do not … [Read More...]
LAW & POLICY – SF DA reinstates policy allowing juveniles to be charged as adults
Newly elected San Francisco District Attorney Brooke Jenkins reinstated the policy of charging 16- and 17-year-olds as adults for crimes that she called “egregious,” wrote Megan Cassidy in The San Francisco Chronicle. Former District Attorney Chesa Boudin had ended the practice, but Jenkins believes that juvenile prosecution does not allow for … [Read More...]
VIRGINIA – Federal court ruling protects prisoners’ religious head coverings
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit ruled that the Virginia Department of Corrections was violating the religious beliefs of an incarcerated man by restricting his use of a head covering, reported The Washington Post on Nov. 8. A three-judge panel ruled unanimously the department’s policy required the incarcerated man in question, … [Read More...]
IRAN – Fire kills eight in Iranian prison
A fire killed eight detainees at Iran’s Evin prison near Terhan, which has for decades housed political prisoners as well as those convicted of criminal charges, according to reporting by The Associated Press. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard and the country’s Intelligence Ministry both operate their own cells at Evin, holding dual-nationals and … [Read More...]
LOUISIANA – Court: Non-unanimous verdict rule not retroactive
A new rule that non-unanimous convictions cannot be used by the state of Louisiana will not apply retroactively, the state Supreme Court has ruled. Louisiana voters approved a state constitutional amendment ending the practice of convicting people without unanimous rulings in 2018, effective for crimes committed after Jan. 1, 2019. Only two … [Read More...]
Former Oregon prison director to head beleaguered Federal Bureau of Prisons
The new head of the scandal-plagued federal Bureau of Prisons says she believes in good government and transparency. Colette Peters told The Associated Press s he will work to “create an environment where people can feel comfortable coming forward and talking about misconduct.” Peters replaced Michael Carvajal as the director of the federal … [Read More...]
Four states end forcible prison labor
On Nov. 8, 2022, four states in the union chose to move this country closer to a nation free of forced labor in every way. Over 75% of voters in Alabama, Oregon, Tennessee, and Vermont approved legislation that would amend their states’ constitutions to eliminate language that allows slavery and involuntary servitude as a punishment for … [Read More...]
NEWS BRIEFS – January 2023
1. Kentucky — ( AP) State officials are promoting a Prison-to-Work- Pipeline program aimed at connecting incarcerated people with employment as they step out of prisons and jails, reported the Associated P ress Nov. 7. D emocratic Gov. Andy Beshear’s administration is working with the Kentucky Chamber of Commerce to further the project. “The goal … [Read More...]
ILLINOIS – Sheriff fights recidivism by reducing costs and fees charged to incarcerated
The Washtenaw CountySheriff belives one way toovercome reincarcerationis through reducing thedebt incurred by detainees A sheriff in Illinois is working to reduce the fines and fees that prisoners are charged in an effort to prevent recidivism and reduce the cost of incarceration, a radio report says. “As we think about how do we break … [Read More...]
TEXAS – No immunity for state corrections in veteran’s medical device lawsuit
A state appeals court has denied immunity of the Texas Department of Criminal Justice from a lawsuit when it refused to replace a device for Robin Smith, an incarcerated person who relies on the device for relief from a rare and painful condition, according to Bloomberg Law. “Smith, a Marine Corps veteran, lives with loin pain hematuria … [Read More...]
US-MEXICO BORDER -Feds ask for psych testing of undocumented parents
DOJ seeks verification of mental suffering forparents separated from children at border Parents separated from their children at the U.S.-Mexican border under President Trump’s 2018 zero-tolerance policy are suing the U.S. for trauma they suffered as a result of the separations. Now the Justice Department is requesting that a federal judge … [Read More...]
Zoe Mullery, Watani Stiner start writing workshop for returning citizens
Creative writing teacher Zoe Mullery and former San Quentin News staffer Watani Stiner are teaming up to start a creative writing class. The class will meet on Thursdays from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Canticle Farm community in Oakland. The workshop is open to all formerly incarcerated writers, but space is limited. While all formerly … [Read More...]
Discrimination persists despite ‘Ban the Box’ laws
Formerly incarcerated people are still facing many obstacles finding employment despite “Ban the Box” laws. After serving almost 20-years of a life sentence, Oakland native Adam Garcia went home in November 2019 to an unfamiliar world of technology. Garcia spoke of the challenges he faced when applying for jobs; he entered a world … [Read More...]
Dehumanizing labels adversely affect returning citizens
State lawmakers, an international organization and a non-profit all advocate to change the negative labeling of incarcerated people as “felons and inmates” to less harmful terms that are not tied to slavery and white supremacy. “We need to give people back the wholeness they deserve,” said Sheila Stubbs, a Wisconsin state representative. … [Read More...]
Mt. Tam, Stanford mull Three Strikes partnership
The California Three Strikes Project at Stanford Law School and Mount Tamalpais College are considering a class where law students and incarcerated people sit together to learn about criminal justice reform. Mike Romano, the director of the Three Strikes Project and author of Proposition 36, a law designed to reduce the sentences of … [Read More...]
LOCKSTEP VENTURES
Change needed in venture capital hiring practices Companies need to do a better job of offering jobs to about 650,000 people freed from America’s jails and prisons each year, Blavity News says. Twenty-seven percent of those released are left to survive without employment. This lack of jobs creates voids in housing, healthcare and … [Read More...]
Marin Shakespeare pays tribute to ‘the Bard’ with production of Richard III
The lobby of San Quentin’s Garden Chapel was filled with Shakespearean costumes. The actors were from San Quentin’s Shakespeare program and the Marin Shakespeare Company. “This is therapy, this is humanity — in prison, people, we wear masks. In this program, I take it off and exercise hidden talents I didn’t know I have,” said incarcerated … [Read More...]
CGA: San Quentin chapter returns after long pause
After a long absence due to COVID-19, San Quentin’s Criminal Gangs Anonymous (CGA) rehabilitative group is back in action. San Quentin’s CGA began meeting in 2011. Its purpose is to help incarcerated people who are recovering from a gang or criminal lifestyle. They come together to address their lifestyle addictions and to pursue meaningful … [Read More...]
CALPIA GRADS HONORED AT RJ DONOVAN
By Michele Kane, CALPIA Assistant General Manager, External Affairs Rain couldn’t dampen the spirits at a graduation ceremony hosted by the California Prison Industry Authority (CALPIA) at RJDonovan Correctional Facility (RJD) in early November. Forty-one graduates received their nationally recognized job certifications and/or … [Read More...]
BOOK GIVEAWAY HELD BY FRIENDS OF SQ LIBRARY
Local nonprofit sends books to prisoners’ kids for Christmas San Quentin’s library held a holiday book fair event Dec. 2, where incarcerated men were given a chance to mail books to their families free of charge. Friends of The San Quentin Library, a non-profit organization that supports the prison’s library, sponsored the … [Read More...]
Q&A with financial literacy adviser Joaquin Wallace
Financial literacy is vital to the success of incarcerated people returning to society. Dr. Joaquin Wallace, a licensed financial advisor, has provided assistance via in-depth workshops for San Quentin’s Project LA/The Bay T.R.U.S.T reentry program. Dr. Wallace sits downs with SQNews: SQN: Please tell us a little bit about your background as a … [Read More...]
AROUND THE WORLD
DREAMING BIG
Bob Goff’s Love Does programawards scholarships to fourSan Quentin residents Four San Quentin residents received college scholarships from the Love Does Prison Education Scholarship Program, ranging from $8,000 to $12,000, after attending the Dream Big workshop. The mission of Love Does is to remove the financial burden that hinders … [Read More...]
CHANGING OF THE GUARD
Retiring education officer leaves legacy of compassion, professionalism After more than 10 years, San Quentin’s education front desk is getting a change of personnel. Correctional Officer E. Sanford retired from his long-held post. Sanford worked within CDCR for more than 20 years, most of them at San Quentin, including on Death … [Read More...]
2023 Calendar
UNCOMMON SENSE By Jessie Milo
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – December 2022
BOOK REVIEW Dear SQNews: I am writing to tell you I have read your article the book “The Mars Room.” Something the author said rang a bell in my mind about accepting responsibility and being accountable. I would like to recommend a book called “Shantaran” by Greggory Davis Roberts. I have been incarcerated here in Texas for 32 … [Read More...]
MADAM C. J. WALKER’S GOSPEL OF GIVING
BLACK WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY DURING JIM CROW When the biography of a Black female millionaire dropped on my desk, I tilted my head. “It’s too distant a subject for someone locked up,” I said to myself. The subject was Madam C.J. Walker. All I knew was she got rich selling hair products to Black people. I didn’t know that she did this … [Read More...]
Hardtimers issue beatdown to Outsiders
SQ baseball’s belated season opener bringstwo old rivals back together for head-on collision The San Quentin Hardtimers finally got the opportunity to have their baseball season-opener in early September against the Outsiders. Although the competition was stiff, and the Outsiders put up a valiant fight, the Hardtimers beat them … [Read More...]
San Quentin Kings end losing streak
Thirteen-point victory over Green Team closes out slump The San Quentin Kings beat the outside Green team 67-54, rising out of their losing slump to the outside team. Although the Green team had the size advantage, the Kings came out firing on all cylinders, both offensively and defensively. “Pookie” Sylvester and Bryan Underwood shared in … [Read More...]
REBRANDING: San Quentin’s All-Madden flag football program to be overhauled by head coach
The San Quentin All-Madden flag football team is getting a name change. Included with that name change is a re-vamp and overhaul of the team, including new rules for the players to abide by. Head Coach Bryant Underwood is changing the name of the SQ All-Madden football team to the San Quentin 49ers, “paying homage to the only (pro) … [Read More...]
Prof. William Drummond on second chances for Draymond
Warriors superstar player Draymond Green has been in the news for throwing a punch at one of his own teammates, Jordan Poole. And, he has also been on the news dialing back and apologizing for his actions. Does he deserve a second chance? Should he be punished by the league? These were a few of the lingering questions that I got the opportunity to … [Read More...]
SHOWDOWN: San Quentin A’s victorious comeback against San Francisco Mission
The San Quentin A’s came out in full uniforms to play the San Francisco Mission Baseball team on the beautiful Wednesday evening Sept. 07. The Mission was hoping to get some get-back from that loss that they took from the A’s on Aug. 20, but they ended up losing, 9-5. The Mission was up in the third inning and leading the A’s, 5-3. “T-Tone” … [Read More...]
All-Stars hand A’s first loss of season
The San Quentin A’s baseball team ended its 2022 season with a loss in the All-Star game. The outside All-Star team included players from the San Francisco Mission, the Barons, and the Rockies. The 11-7 loss Oct. 14 was the A’s first defeat of the season. “This was our last chance to get some get- back at the A’s,” said outside Coach … [Read More...]
Reforma juvenil en Maryland establece nuevas reglas en sentenciar a los adolescentes
Aun después de 7 años que su hijo fue puesto en libertad en Maryland, Keisha Hogan continúa apoyando la legislación de una nueva ley para que otros jóvenes encarcelados sean tratados mejor que su hijo dentro del sistema de detención juvenil del estado de Maryland. Su hijo era apenas un adolescente de 13 años cuando robó un teléfono … [Read More...]
La Corte Suprema de Justicia niegan fianza a los inmigrantes
La Corte Suprema de Justicia (conocida en inglés como The Supreme Court of the United States) dicto en contra de los inmigrantes que quieren evitar largos periodos de detención y tener su libertad mientras pelean sus órdenes de deportación, dice el articulo De igual manera los jueces fallaron 6-3 para no permitir que los inmigrantes se … [Read More...]
Aumenta la reincidencia de delincuentes en Nueva York
De acuerdo a miembros de la administración de la ciudad de Nueva York, la reincidencia va en aumento en el sistema carcelario local. Eric Adams, quien es el alcalde de NYC, y el comisionado de policía Keechant L. Sewell hicieron pública la lista de reincidentes más notorios. Ellos consideran que se necesitan reformas en el sistema, para que … [Read More...]
Recluso sobreviviendo la diálisis
Para un residente de la prisión de San Quentin la vida le cambió drásticamente. El señor Daniel Arciniega de 56 años fue diagnosticado con un problema de riñón, considerado médicamente como ‘insuficiencia renal aguda’. “Yo sólo vivo como los alcohólicos, un día a la vez, o sea 24 horas a la vez”, exaltó Arciniega dándose ánimo, añadiendo, “el … [Read More...]
Dos mexicanos y veteranos de la guerra de Vietnam enfrentan deportación
Durante sus experiencias en la Guerra de Vietnam, Valente Valenzuela, un soldado de ascendencia mexicana que hizo su vida en Estados Unidos, nunca se imaginó que algún día sería deportado de EE. UU., el país que tanto sirvió en batalla. Durante su servicio militar desempeño trabajos inauditos, que el cumplió diligentemente. En varias … [Read More...]
Mexicano liberado de cadena perpetua
Estamos viendo que aquellos que se dan la oportunidad de cambiar sus comportamientos y manera de pensar están siendo liberados de cadena perpetua. Rolando Tut, 37, es uno de los afortunados quien encontró la luz al fin de su túnel oscuro; nunca se dio por vencido porque su familia era su motivación. Tut comentó que cuando él … [Read More...]
An Educator’s Guide to Prison
By Nick Hacheney andTomas KeenReprinted by permissionfrom College Inside What should educators know before walking into a prison? The landscape may look vaguely familiar, Nick Hacheney and Tomas Keen write, but don’t be fooled. There’s a lot outsiders can’t see, and need to understand. As prison education programs are poised to expand, the two … [Read More...]
Mt. Tam College announces first winners of MTC Alumni Scholarship Program
By Corey McNeilContributing Writer The Mount Tamalpais College Alumni Scholarship Program was created to help former Mount Tam College students who have been paroled continue their education in trade schools, community colleges, 4-year colleges, and graduate schools. In 2022, a scholarship awarded its recipients $10,000 each to assist with their … [Read More...]
JUST THE FACTS – RELEASE FUNDS
Community health workers and reentry healthcare resources are available
Transitions Clinic Network (TCN) hosts a monthly Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) column. This column is a space where we answer questions about health care and empower individuals to prepare for healthy reentry. We interviewed Joe Calderon, who is a returning community member and a community health worker (CHW) for the Transitions Clinic Network … [Read More...]
Parolees face housing barriers despite justice reforms
Leaving prison opens the door to a daunting array of potential problems, including finding a place to live and a job to support a life of freedom, the Los Angeles Times reports. A result is that many newly released people become homeless, the Aug. 2 story notes. “This is a population that we can all agree is vulnerable to falling into … [Read More...]
Newsom appoints new BPH commissioner
Six current commissioners also reappointed to Parole Board Gov. Gavin Newsom has reappointed six members of the adult Board of Parole Hearings, which rules on prison parole applications. He also appointed one new member and reappointed a member of the Board of Juvenile Hearings. The appointees require confirmation by the state … [Read More...]
TRADING PLACES: Marin County puts criminal justice professionals in shoes of those they serve
By Alex N. GecanMarin Independent JournalReprinted with permission About 60 Marin County employees, non-profit staffers and health specialists got a taste of the other ends of their jobs Wednesday. They stepped into the shoes of the people who come through their doors every day, trying to stay free. The exercise, organized by the Marin … [Read More...]
Study: LA County ground zero for most California prisoners
By Kevin D. SawyerContributing Writer The majority of prisoners sent to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation come from Los Angeles County, according to a recent study by the Prison Policy Initiative. The study documents the highest rate of imprisonment is concentrated in Los Angeles’ neighborhoods located in the South … [Read More...]
Tales from the cemetery: The rancher and the mobster
By Don ChaddockEditor, Inside CDCR NewsletterReprinted by permission The San Quentin cemetery overlooks the prison. At left is rancher JQ Ackerman, sentenced to San Quentin, and Howard Abbey, at Folsom. San Quentin and Folsom prisons each have a cemetery where many incarcerated people were buried, marked only with their inmate numbers. … [Read More...]
FREE BUS RIDES TO VISITS AT ALL 34 ADULT INSTITUTIONS
OIG REPORT: Sanctions for staff misconduct too lenient
California prison officials have been strongly criticized for their internal investigations and disciplinary actions against correctional officers. The Office of the Inspector General’s report gave the California prison system an overall “poor” rating when conducting internal investigations and issuing adequate employee disciplinary actions in … [Read More...]
Transgender housing battle looming
A legal battle is brewing, seeking to nullify a California law that requires transgender prisoners be housed in a female facility if they claim female identity, The Hill reports. At issue is a law passed in 2020. It requires the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation to allow transgender and non-binary prisoners to be housed in … [Read More...]
Jenkins to charge fentanyl dealers with murder for overdoses
Fentanyl drug dealers will be charged with second-degree murder when a customer dies of an overdose, San Francisco’s new district attorney says. Recently elected DA Brooke Jenkins said the decision is aimed at combating the escalating fatal overdoses of the especially dangerous drug fentanyl. A second-degree murder conviction carries a prison … [Read More...]
Global Tel Link to resume tablet distribution
Global Tel Link Corporation has received the go-ahead to speed up tablet distribution “free of charge” to all incarcerated people in California prisons after a bitter court battle. The rollout was slowed because of a lawsuit filed in a Sacramento court in September 2021 by Securus/JPay over a bidding dispute, according to Prison Legal … [Read More...]
Collaboration offers incarcerated women free subscriptions to Ms. magazine
By Clark GerhartsreiterContributing Writer Feminist icon Gloria Steinem says women and girls are the fastest growing incarcerated population in the United States, and this needs to be dramatically changed. “About 60% have been convicted of non-violent crimes, like possessing or selling illegal drugs. And many of the women convicted of … [Read More...]
Formerly incarcerated moms face numerous hurdles during reentry
Incarcerated women returning to society find little support, and life is especially difficult for returning mothers, said a story by KQED. Available help is usually fragmented among various nonprofits and governmental agencies, and is difficult to find, the June 11 story reported. The report included interviews with a number of women … [Read More...]
MAKING TRACKS: Grammy winning rap artist Lecrae produces CCWF prisoner’s original hip-hop track
A woman incarcerated at the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla is the first female to record and release an original hip hop track from inside a prison. Carmela Tautinoga Mose, a.k.a. GOOD, won Securus Technologies’ first ever “Original Hip-Hop Track Contest” with her original song “I Think,” Newsy reported in … [Read More...]
Musical men in blues
San Quentin has a rich history of talented musicians performing inside its walls. The list includes BB King, Johnny Cash, Santana, Metallica, Michael Franti, Common and many more. Yet the majority of San Quentin’s musicians never had a visitor’s pass. They wore blues, performing for friends on the yard or in worship bands. Whatever … [Read More...]
Our Lady of the Rosary’s Megan O’Brien shares her voice with San Quentin News
San Quentin is known for world-class volunteers who share visions of social reform and philanthropy. Volunteers are often academics and social justice advocates, but some are known for their angelic voices. One of them is Megan O’Brien, director of San Quentin’s Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Chapel Choir. She celebrated her return to the … [Read More...]
Group offers crucial support to San Quentin library
San Quentin’s recreational library is filled with highly sought-after books thanks to outside support from the Friends of San Quentin Library, which has brought over 300 new books to the prison since May of 2022. SQNews interviewed Kristi Kenney of the Friends of San Quentin Library via email. SQN: Why is reading and having a prison … [Read More...]
NATIONAL: Americans support voting rights restoration
A majority of voting Americans support restoring voting rights to all citizens, even those with felony convictions, a recent survey concludes. The survey revealed that 54% agree that “All citizens, regardless of if they have a felony conviction in the past, should be eligible to vote.” The Lake Research Partners conducted the survey … [Read More...]
NORTH CAROLINA: Prison suicide rate hits three-decade high
Suicides of incarcerated people in North Carolina prisons are at their highest in 30 years, reported the Charlotte Observer. The state Department of Public Safety reported nine suicides in the first nine months. Meanwhile, almost 40% of state correctional officer positions were empty, said officials. “The department takes this … [Read More...]
FEDERAL: BOP ignored asbestos complaints
Asbestos and mold make California’s Dublin federal prison a dangerous place, and complaints have been ignored by the Federal Bureau of Prisons, The Associated Press reported in April. “Management’s failure to address unsafe and dangerous working conditions at FCI [Federal Correctional Institution] Dublin has put the health and safety of … [Read More...]
MICHIGAN: Sixth Circuit allows ADA disability claim to proceed
A man can proceed with his claim against prison officials who confiscated his medically necessary orthopedic shoes, a federal appeals court has ruled. The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals held Aug. 2 that Leon Douglas, a Michigan prisoner, can proceed with his claim under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation … [Read More...]
FLORIDA: Family visit bans fail to stem flow of contraband
Banning family visits does not stop drugs from being smuggled into Florida prisons, the Miami Herald reported Aug. 17. The newspaper conducted a study during the COVID-19 pandemic using publicly available data maintained by the Florida Department of Corrections. Prior to the pandemic, prison officials held that friends and family … [Read More...]
ALABAMA: Incarcerated workers statewide go on strike
Incarcerated people in Alabama prisons have stopped participating in work assignments to protest inhumane conditions, according to The Associated Press and Insider. Swift Justice, who is incarcerated at the Fountain Correctional Facility in Atmore, alleges that the Alabama Department of Corrections does not rehabilitate incarcerated people … [Read More...]
NEWS BRIEFS: December 2022
1. California — (The Guardian) A report derived from state data tracking racial profiling revealed that drivers of color are stopped more frequently than white motorists, according to a report issued by the group Reimagining Community Safety in California. In the state’s capital, police stopped Black drivers almost five times as often as their … [Read More...]
Accidental overdoses trigger murder charges for dealers in 23 states
Accidental drug overdose deaths should not trigger a murder charge, a USA Today opinion column says. Those prosecutions “involve charging individuals with homicide when they supply drugs that result in a fatal overdose, even if there was no specific intent to kill,” the Aug. 2 article by Laura Conover notes. Conover is a county attorney in … [Read More...]
Female prisoners heal through art
Mural project allows womento process abuse, trauma Incarcerated women in a South Carolina prison are learning to heal by using art to process past traumas, a recent story reports. Inside the Leath Correctional Institution in Greenwood visiting room, a mural of butterflies has been painted on the wall. The mural tells the story of women … [Read More...]
‘E-carceration’ monitoring reduces recidivism rates
Legislation now allows more home confinement sentences as the federal Bureau of Prisons releases thousands of low-risk offenders, according to an article by Greg Newburn of the Niskanen Center. In March 2020 Congress passed the CARES Act, allowing some prisoners to serve time in home confinement rather than federal prisons. Emerging … [Read More...]
Angel Tree brings Christmas to children of incarcerated parents
Every year The Prison Fellowship Program provides incarcerated people with applications to send Christmas gifts to their children through the Angel Tree program. Kevin Almestica recalls a Christmas 22 years ago, when he got his favorite GI Joe action heroes as a gift. Enclosed with the gift was a note from his mother, who was away at New … [Read More...]
‘Blue and Blue’ returns for second symposium
SF Police forums gain momentum, energy The forum is called Blue and Blue, an ongoing series of conversations between San Francisco police officers and residents of San Quentin. “It’s really important for us to bridge the gap between us enforcing the law and arresting people on the streets, versus coming in here and meeting you,” said … [Read More...]
New Norway-inspired legislation took aim at California recidivism rate
California lawmakers recently considered a bill to create a different type of jobs-training program for incarcerated people who would live in a communal setting — similar to prisons in Norway. “It’s almost as if you’re part of a dorm, and you’re working with other folks to help each other,” Stockton Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua told KQED … [Read More...]
Runa Ray partners with SQ artists
A fashion designer/environmentalist returned to San Quentin in order to include the prison’s incarcerated population in the design of a gigantic flag to be displayed at the United Nations. “I’m extremely honored to be on these grounds of San Quentin,” said Runa Ray at the Aug. 15 event aimed at bringing attention to climate change, justice … [Read More...]
North Carolina art show supports the incarcerated
The artistic voices of the incarcerated were displayed in North Carolina recently, giving thanks to community organizations that support and advocate for prisoners’ successful reentry into society, according to The Raleigh ( N.C.) News and Observer. An exhibit called “Something to Say” featured art from men in Orange Correctional Center, a … [Read More...]
Kairos retreats coming back to SQ
The popular religious weekend called Kairos is being reactivated in San Quentin after shutdowns due to the COVID pandemic. The next event will be Presidents Day weekend in February. Another happening is scheduled for Labor Day weekend in September to complete the annual recruitment of new Kairos members. Activities will include … [Read More...]
Opportunities abound at SQ retreats coming back to SQ for faith-based transformation
Incarcerated San Quentans find purpose,healing in the prison’s diverse religious offerings San Quentin State Prison’s residents often find rehabilitation through faith and religion, seeking spiritual development in faith-based groups. The belief in something that enables self-improvement, often found in faith, can be crucial for prison … [Read More...]
Thy Kingdom Come: Gospel-themed opera comes to San Quentin
Residents of San Quentin were treated to the high culture of a gospel-themed opera performance by a husband and wife duo trained at London’s prestigious Conservatory of Music. The event took place in SQ’s Garden Chapel on Oct. 14 and was billed as “Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done! A Classical Music Experience to Remember.” The … [Read More...]
UNCUFFED PODCAST EARNS RECOGNITION
A podcast produced at San Quentin about the parole process has won a national award. The podcast was produced by UnCuffed, a program at San Quentin’s Media Center that teaches original production of a podcast to the incarcerated, and first aired in 2021. Called “Nate’s Going Home,” the first-place winning episode highlighted Nathan … [Read More...]
Journalism Guild alum Forrest Jones returns to SQ
The secret to success inside or outside of prison is to take advantage of every opportunity you are given, a former prisoner told the San Quentin News Journalism Guild. That was the advice from Forrest Jones, a former Guild student on his first return to San Quentin since his parole in 2018. Jones, a Black man with dark skin, soft … [Read More...]
STARS BEHIND BARS:
North Carolina nonprofit visits San Quentin,aims to improve reentry opportunities in NC A mentor of incarcerated people in North Carolina said that a recent visit to San Quentin’s Media Center opened his eyes for ways to improve the reentry program where he volunteers. “The rest of the country needs to take note,” said Jerry Campbell, … [Read More...]
CCWP welcomes new Membership Organizer
Formerly incarcerated women continue to raise the bar in advocacy work. Elizabeth “Leesa” Nomura is the new membership organizer for the California Coalition for Women Prisoners. Nomura is formerly incarcerated and a strong advocate for justice-involved women and system-impacted families. She created “Freedom Looks Good on Us,” a Facebook … [Read More...]
Initiate Justice restructures leadership roles
Initiate Justice, a prison reform and abolitionist advocacy group, is in the process of a leadership transition, according to the Inside Journal, the organization’s newsletter. Taina Vargas, the long-time executive director of the organization, will transition to head Initiate Justice Action, the group’s 501(c4) organization. “Thank you to … [Read More...]
David Roybal’s timeless pin-up style creations say it all
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
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...]
A MESSAGE TO OUR NATION’S INCARCERATED VETERANS:
We at San Quentin News would like to thank you all for your service to this country. No matter which branch you served in, or the length of your service, our freedom is dependent on the sacrifice of those brave men and women who are willing to put their lives on the line to defend and protect it. This Veteran’s Day, let’s all express some … [Read More...]
ROCK SOLID : Inspirational children’s book offers under-dong moral
Need something inspiring to read to your kids during a visit? Granite is full of adventure, trials and tribulations, near defeat and an incredible come-back. The inside front cover reads:“Granite is the greatest lead dog in history, but that wasn’t always a given. As a puppy, Granite was small and shy. Even though he lacked self-confidence, … [Read More...]
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, November 2022
FLORIDA PRISONERS PERSEVERE IN FACE OF OPPOSITION Dear San Quentin News:Hope this letter reaches you in the very best of spirits. I enjoy reading the San Q newspaper and have been for like the past 15 years. I always share with my comrades who are for the struggle. We’re very inspired by you and is actually trying to put something together in … [Read More...]
BOOK REVIEW: I, Rigoberta Menchu – An Indian Woman in Guatemala
More than an autobiography, the book I, Rigoberta Menchú is a meticulously detailed document about the real life of Guatemala’s indigenous population. It provides a look into the political system that reigned there in the 1960s, told by a then-23-year-old indigenous woman from El Quiche, a province in western Guatemala. The author narrates the … [Read More...]
Remembering Vin Scully: Legendary voice of the Dodgers dies at 94
Vincent Edward Scully, affectionately known to the world as Vin Scully, passed away on Aug. 2, 2022. He was famously known as the sportscaster for Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers since the 1950s, when the franchise was in Brooklyn, according to Wikipedia. Scully served the Dodgers and their fans for 67 years until he passed away at … [Read More...]
SQ sports program speaks the language of self-help
San Quentin sports programs produce many replay-worthy highlights, and while everybody has their personal favorites, the size of the crowd for each suggests a ranking order. Judging by the size of the crowds, sports enthusiasts’ top sports team here is likely the SQ Warriors because they are sponsored by the Golden State Warriors, who visit the … [Read More...]
BASKETBALL COMES BACK TO THE Q
The San Quentin (SQ) Warriors finally faced fresh competition on Aug. 13 as the first outside basketball team came in for a scrimmage after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19. The Lower Yard was filled with sports activity on that sunny day, but it was basketball that drew the biggest crowd with spectators ringing the court to cheer on the home … [Read More...]
TIER TALK: Life-long boxing enthusiast Raymond Estrada reflects on coaching
One of San Quentin’s oldest sports is boxing, but the sport is not practiced here anymore due to its violent reputation. However, the residents can still use the punching bag and get training from some of the prison’s self-proclaimed boxing coaches, such as boxing enthusiast Raymond Timothy Estrada. Timothy Hicks (TH): How long have you been … [Read More...]
Los Angeles Sparks: First WNBA team to hit 500 wins
Sports history was written this past summer when the L.A. Sparks took down the Dallas Wings 97–89 to secure the team’s 500th win, making it the winningest team in WNBA history. What makes this accomplishment even more historic is the fact that the Sparks reached this milestone in just 837 games. The Milwaukee Bucks set the first professional … [Read More...]
FIRST 5K HELD AT THE Q SINCE COVID
A 5K-run was held at San Quentin in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic to celebrate overcoming hardships due to program modifications and restrictions and commemorate those who were lost during the outbreaks, which have changed the prison and the world. The five-kilometer (three-mile) run was organized by SQ’s 1000 Mile Club and attracted nearly … [Read More...]
La fundadora del proyecto Bandera de Paz Runa Ray visita San Quentin
Una diseñadora de modas utiliza el arte y la moda para crear un mejor medio ambiente alrededor del mundo, y promover la Justicia Social en la población carcelaria. Ray, es la fundadora del Proyecto Bandera de Paz (The Peace Flag Project). Este es un programa innovador, sin-fines de lucro patrocinado por EL Departamento de Correcciones y … [Read More...]
Las sentencias de los oficiales en el caso Floyd fueron modificadas
En Minneapolis, dos de los cuatro ex policías condenados por violar los derechos civiles de George Floyd pueden recibir sentencias más cortas, después de que un juez federal anunció que sus sentencias se calcularan bajo una fórmula más benevolente, de acuerdo con el reporte de Amy Forliti a La Prensa Asociada. Paul Magnuson, el juez federal del … [Read More...]
Reflexionando en el Día de Acción de Gracias
El Día de Acción de Gracias es un día para reunirse con la familia y recordar las bendiciones de la vida, que se celebra cada noviembre en los Estados Unidos. Para mucha gente, el Día de Acción de Gracias trae recuerdos de mesas llenas de comida, reuniones alegres, juegos de futbol Americano, reflexiones religiosas, y el des-file del Día de … [Read More...]
CoreCivic enfrenta demanda por trabajos forzados
La demanda fue iniciada por los ex prisioneros reclamando violaciones a las leyes laborales Una corte federal de apelaciones dictaminó el viernes que los emigrantes que fueron forzados a trabajar sin pago o con poco sueldo por limpiar los baños y la cocina y sacar la basura pueden demandar al principal administrador de esas prisiones. Todo eso … [Read More...]
Resolviendo problema de vivienda económica en San Francisco
San Francisco es reconocido como el centro financiero del oeste de los Estados Unidos. Con una acumulación de riquezas extremas, y ganancias de corporaciones que son afectadas por la política moderada y conservadora, particularmente en referencia a la economía, de acuerdo con el artículo de Christopher D. Cook. Cooper Teboe, un estratega … [Read More...]
Graduación de la Tribu 315 de GRIP
Liberándose del enojo reprimido Buscando curación desde adentro hacia fuera. Una vez que los participantes de habla hispana adquieren las herramientas del programa Guiando la Rabia en Poder (GRIP por sus siglas en inglés) pueden controlar la ira. La ceremonia fue coordinada con la ayuda de la directora ejecutiva Kim Moore y Tare … [Read More...]
Mt. Tam College hosts symposium
Mount Tamalpais College staff hosted a long-awaited symposium that featured research results on the benefits of college attendance to incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people. The event was held on Aug. 25 in San Quentin’s education B building. MTC staff member Jen Juras welcomed everyone and introduced the keynote speaker, Dr. Naomi Levy … [Read More...]
Many prisoners living in educational wasteland
‘Nothing academic is offered here’ By Charlotte West Reprinted by permission. When I started covering prison education last year, I sent out a lot of messages asking people what kinds of educational programs were offered at their prisons. It took Jennifer Graves, who is incarcerated at the Florida Women’s Reception Center in Ocala, Fla., a … [Read More...]
All of Us or None: 23rd Annual Community Giveback
Organization to host yearly bicycle giveaway for Bay Area children of incarcerated parents Legal Services for Prisoners with Children will be hosting a community event on December 10, 2022.The Community Giveback is an event for children in the San Francisco Bay Area whose parents are in jail or prison to receive a new bike or other gifts … [Read More...]
MT. TAM WELCOMES NEW STAFF
By Amy Shea, Mt. Tam College I recently celebrated my one-year anniversary with Mount Tamalpais College (MTC), as the Writing Program Director. I am amazed to see all the amazing changes and growth we’ve experienced inthat time, including new opportunities with the computer lab and the student Learning Center, new students, and new … [Read More...]
BPH commissioners embrace video format for parole hearings
In-person appearances before the Board of Parole Hearings for suitability appear to be a thing of the past. Instead, audio-video hearings are likely to become permanent, Life Support Alliance reports in their February 2022 newsletter. In California, thousands of incarcerated people with life sentences who seek freedom by going before the Board … [Read More...]
SQ & Marin Shakespeare Co. offers Henry IV performance
A prison chapel transformed itself into a theater for a Shakespearean play when about two dozen incarcerated men teamed up with Marin Shakespeare Company directors to perform Henry IV, Parts 1 and 2. As the audience of about 50 people, including free people from the local SF Bay Area, settled into their seats in San Quentin’s Garden Chapel, … [Read More...]
Substance abuse program celebrates recovery
The triumphs of recovering substance abusers were on full display in San Quentin’s (SQ) gymnasium during the recent Incentive Day, a day of celebration. A couple of years ago, San Quentin’s gym was converted into a place for prisoners to learn life skills and get drug treatment. On Sept. 1, the gym was converted into a carnival to offer … [Read More...]
IN FOCUS: GRIP graduates, facilitators offer heartfelt personal insights on the power of the flagship program
Last month, we covered the first post-Covid graduation ceremony of the Guiding Rage Into Power program, commonly known as GRIP. The graduation was a two-day event attended by a number of notables from across California, including a state senator, folks from CDCR headquarters, and friends and families of graduates, all of whom gathered to … [Read More...]
Federal: Detained immigrants can sue over forced labor
Detained immigrants received a favorable judgment from a federal appeals court in June regarding labor practices during detention. The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court ruled the detainees can move forward with a suit against a major operator of private prisons for forcing them to perform manual labor for little or no pay, in violation of the U.S. … [Read More...]
Call for repeal of state’s Three Strikes law
California needs to repeal the Three Strikes Law, which has lengthened sentences of more than 33,000 people, including more than 7,400 whose latest conviction was neither serious nor violent, according to an op-ed article in the Los Angeles Times. The authors maintained the best solution is to repeal the law because “keeping people in prison for … [Read More...]
Ruling: Prosecutors required to follow Three Strikes law
Prosecutors must charge defendants with sentence-lengthening "three-strikes” enhancements, even if they oppose the state’s three strikes law, a California appeals court ruled in June, the San Francisco Chronicle reports. In the 3-0 ruling, Justice John Segal said that California’s 1994 three strikes law “shall be applied in every case” in which … [Read More...]
2020 Racial Justice Act made retroactive
A new California law allows people to retroactively challenge their criminal convictions or sentences on the basis of racial discrimination. The Racial Justice Act for All — Assembly Bill (AB) 256 — was sponsored by Assem-bly Member Ash Kalra (D-San Jose) and has been signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom. It takes effect Jan. 1, 2023.This bill comes on … [Read More...]
San Francisco Innocence Commission to continue under new prosecutor
Newly appointed District Attorney Brooke Jenkins says she will retain the San Francisco Innocence Commission created by recalled DA Chesa Boudin. “I am committed to continuing and supporting the work of the Innocence Commission to ensure that we help free any innocent individuals who may have been wrongfully convicted,” Jenkins said. Boudin … [Read More...]
LA prosecutor George Gascón survives second recall attempt
Opponents of Los Angeles County’s District Attorney George Gascón have failed in a second attempt to recall the progressive prosecutor, news media report. The multi-million dollar recall campaign — largely supported by police unions, conservative mega-donors, and anti-reform politicians — failed to gather the almost 567,000 signatures necessary … [Read More...]
AB 990: Restoring the Right to Visit – PART 2
By Ivana Gonzales, LSPC Contributing Writer The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation saved millions of dollars in visiting costs while visiting was shut down or severely curtailed during the pandemic. It should not be allowed to claim a lack of resources to provide both in-person and video-calling visiting to help repair the … [Read More...]
MICHIGAN Study: Increased school funding reduces criminality
A recent Michigan study shows that increased funding in schools decreases adult crimes. “Michigan’s school funding equalization process led to otherwise similar students receiving drastically different funding amounts during elementary school,” said Education Policy Initiative. “Some students with luck attended elementary school in a school … [Read More...]
NEW YORK: Dept. of Corrections bans care packages from home
By Clark Gerhartsreiter Contributing Writer One of the last states to allow the public to send care packages directly to incarcerated persons — or deliver them during visits — has decided to phase out the practice. Home-cooked meals or grandma’s cookies may no longer enter the prison, wrote Maysoon Khan, a corps member of The Associated … [Read More...]
NATIONAL: Alliance for Justice report shows disconnect between federal judges, population
Federal appeals court justices overwhelmingly represent the wealthy and powerful interests, a liberal advocacy group maintains. “We have created a justice system where working people are far more likely to sit before a judge with experience union-busting or block-ing consumer protections than someone with experience representing people like … [Read More...]
MINNESOTA: DEREK CHAUVIN’S ACCOMPLICES TO BE RESENTENCED
Two former police officers improperly sentenced in killing of George Floyd, judge rules Two former Minneapolis police officers convicted of violating George Floyd’s civil rights had their sentence guidelines changed, potentially resulting in lower sentences, reported The Associated Press.Lawyers for J. Alexander Kueng and Tou Thao argued that … [Read More...]
Mississippi now world leader in incarceration
Trend reverses previous administration’s prison reduction reforms; new efforts under way to treat addiction, reduce recidivism Mississippi has become the world leader in locking up human beings. The per capita incarceration rate in Mississippi is now higher than any other state in the U.S. or any other country on the globe reported the Sun … [Read More...]
NEWS BRIEFS: November 2022
Arkansas — (The Associated Press) The state of Arkansas has been given permission to continue using the sedative midazolam in its lethal injections by a federal appeals court. Midazolam has been criticized due to concerns over its use in botched executions and scientific debate over the amount of pain experienced by those receiving the sedative as … [Read More...]
Use of word ‘inmate’ scrapped, deemed offensive
New York has enacted laws that replace words like “inmate” and “mentally retarded” with “incarcerated person” and “developmentally disabled” in official documents, The Associated Press reported. State Sen. Gustavo Rivera sponsored the bill that was signed into law by Gov. Kathy Hochul, changing the term “inmate” to “incarcerated person” in … [Read More...]
Russia recruits prisoners to man frontlines in war against Ukraine
By Clark Gerhartsreiter Contributing Writer For Russian incarcerated persons who thought that uni-formed visitors at their penal colony in St. Petersburg had come to inspect the facility, the visit turned out to be far more momentous. The visitors were seeking recruits to fight with the Russian army in Ukraine in exchange for amnesty, reported … [Read More...]
Incarceration rates linked to illiteracy
Children with low reading rates also have a statistically higher chance of going to prison, and unfortunately, to keep returning, USA Today reports. Nationwide, about 70% of incarcerated people cannot read at the fourth-grade level. In Oregon, 15% of incarcerated adults read below the eighth-grade level, however, with no state-by-state … [Read More...]
Counties authorize forced medication of jail prisoners
Critics say jails favor ‘tranquilizing’ prisoners over treatment options Marin County has joined other California counties in authorizing the administration of medications to jail prisoners without their consent, the Marin Independent Journal reported. Marin supervisors authorized the action under provisions of Senate Bill 568, which allows … [Read More...]
Study: Procrastination linked to physical, mental health problems
Procrastination is the cause of many health and career problems, but regulating your emotions can improve your mental health and well-being, according to The Epoch Times. Researchers have found that the parts of the brain connected to threat detection and emotion regulation are different for each individual. By avoiding an unpleasant task -- … [Read More...]
California invests $4.7B to address youth addiction, mental health
Gov. Gavin Newsom announced an allocation of $4.7 billion to cope with mental health and substance abuse problems for the youth of California, the Modesto Bee reported. The governor’s office called the funding, “the most significant, multi-year overhaul of our mental health system in state history.” Data gathered by the governor’s office … [Read More...]
BROTHERS’ KEEPERS: STRIVING TO SAVE LIVES
Peer-based suicide prevention responds to prisoners in crisis On February 17, 2005, Rob-ert Dubner had breakfast in the chow hall with fellow inmates, then returned to his cell, and hanged himself. Dubner’s good friend Marvin Mutch was devastated. He was also perplexed because his friend was popular and respected in the prison community. He … [Read More...]
THE MONKEYPOX MYTH: Dispelling misinformation about world’s newest public health emergency
An old disease is haunting new territories, leading to public health emergency declarations across the globe. Monkeypox is spreading uncontrollably with more than 25,000 cases across the world. The country with the most cases is the United States, with over 14,000. Of the 49 affected states, California has the greatest number of cases. The … [Read More...]
Report: Prisoners more likely to suffer chronic illness, go untreated
Prison Policy Initiative Reprinted by permissionA new report from the Prison Policy Initiative offers the most recent national data on incarcerated people’s health and shows that U.S. state prisons are continuing to ignore the plight of people in their care. The report, Chronic Punishment: The unmet health needs of people in state prisons, examines … [Read More...]
Obtaining gender-affirming healthcare in the community
HEALTH & WELLNESSTransitions Clinic Network is a network of community health clinics that serve returning community members. TCN clinic programs are led by Community Health Workers with lived experience of incarceration. TCN hosts a monthly Frequently Asked Questions column. We answer questions about health care and empower individuals to … [Read More...]
Inside Circle Foundation fights violence — at its source
Program brings healing to prisoners and formerly incarcerated, works toward reducing recidivism Inside Circle Foundation is a successful rehabilitation program that was founded in prison to help men become better men. It’s a program that empowers system-impacted people to adopt change from within by providing opportunities for incarcerated … [Read More...]
ELLA BAKER CENTER, SMART JUSTICE RETURN
Politicians and reform advocates visited San Quentin (SQ) State Prison to discuss crime, punishment, and rehabilitation. Among them were two formerly incarcerated men who are now working for social justice organizations. “Thank you for welcoming us to share your experiences and expertise,” James King said to the circle of over a dozen … [Read More...]
SQ debuts hi-tech audio engineering program
Four days a week, Yu “Paul” Chen gets up early. He makes his way through a checkpoint and then a heavy, medieval-looking metal door to sit behind a 21st-century computer where he works on the sound design for a fictional commercial. “I read the books inside the cell and use the classroom for hands-on — to maximize the resources available to us,” … [Read More...]
Offender Mentor program changes lives at the Q
Peer-based support program assists with addiction counseling The Offender Mentor Certification Program is changing incarcerated lives for the better. OMCP is a volunteer program that provides long-term offenders a year of training to become a “certified offender mentor.” The program focuses on Alcohol and Other Drug addiction counseling. … [Read More...]
Q volunteer campaigns for Oakland mayoral seat
Oakland mayoral candidate, community activist, and San Quentin volunteer Allyssa Victory is running to be the new Mayor of Oakland in the upcoming November election. If she wins, she would replace the current Mayor, Libby Schaaf, who is terming out. If elected, Victory would make history as the first Black woman to be Mayor of Oakland — the … [Read More...]
Documentarian returns to San Quentin
Former San Quentin State Prison resident and Bay Area native, Adamu Chan, has created a documentary film about the SQ Covid-19 outbreak. The film, entitled What These Walls Won’t Hold, is about 40 minutes long and details the relationships, struggles, and connections that transcended prison walls during the deadly outbreak. “This film tracks … [Read More...]
Pay no attention to the Twits
L. Smothers, Contributor Inmate twitter is a form of gossip that is spread throughout the prison by individuals who don’t have a clue as to what they are talking about. I don’t listen to “Inmate Twitter.” First of all, most individuals in here spend too much time in front of the TV watching the news ‘til they are transformed into some type … [Read More...]
PEEPERS: Those who have mastered the fine art of window shopping
By George Graham, The Prison Mirror There is an element among the inmates in prison that needs to be changed. It’s called disrespecting others through snooping, rubbernecking, invasion of privacy, or to put it in lames — PEEPERS. Peepers are those who slyly or not so slyly peep into the cells of others, trying to see what property is … [Read More...]