SQ keeps tradition of giving
Veterans’ Toys for Tots continues to warm the hearts of many One-and a-half-old Zy'ir Lewis chooses a toy 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 … [Read More...]
When sports turn an eye toward prison
Scott Budnick, Vivek Ranadive and Trevor Ariza inside Folsom housing block 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 … [Read More...]
SQN EXTRA: CLIMATE DISASTER INSIDE AMERICA’S PRISONS
By Alfred King, Journalism Guild Writer Prisoners are often endangered when natural climatic change disasters such as floods, storms, hurricanes or extreme temperatures occur, The New Republic reports. Prisoners are “literally on the front lines” of climate change problems, the story said. This includes families fleeing climate change … [Read More...]
SQN EXTRA: MASS INC HEALTHCARE
By Alfred King, Journalism Guild Writer America’s current healthcare system makes things worse for many of those who are incarcerated in jails and prisons, according to nymag.com. America’s for-profit healthcare system causes decisions in jails and prisons to be made wholly on the basis of cost, the Oct. 1 article reported. The story … [Read More...]
SQN EXTRA: WORST POLICY IMAGINABLE
Arizona state prisoners are being charged for their medical expenses when they’re taken to the hospital for using illegal substances, reported The Appeal. The Arizona Department of Corrections (ADC) enacted this policy back in March of this year. Prior to this policy, the department charged prisoners co-pays for healthcare visits and the full … [Read More...]
SQN EXTRA: EQUINE THERAPY
By Vincent O’Bannon, Journalism Guild Writer Some imprisoned veterans in Connecticut are getting psychological help from an unusual source– horses. The Equine Therapy program “is aimed at creating and maintaining healthy and mutually beneficial relationships through healing with horses,” said Renee Bouffard of … [Read More...]
WALL CITY Edicion Espanol: Arriesgando todo por el bienestar del los hijos
Inmigrantes centroamericanos en tijuana, méxco. Watani Stiner, escapo de la prisión de San Quentin en 1974 y se refugió primero en de experiencia personal. En 1974, me escape de la prisión de San Quentin, y huí del país a Guyana en Suramérica. dinero para libros o profesores, sucumbió. Guyana en Suramérica y posteriormente en Suriname. Pasó … [Read More...]
Wall City Edición Español: James Fox ensena yoga
James Fox ha enseñado yoga por medio del Prison Yoga Project (PYP) a personas encarceladas en la prisión estatal de San Quentin, en California desde el 2012. Sin embargo, desde hace dos años, internos en prisiones mexicanas también se han beneficiado de su enseñanza. jóvenes de alrededor de 16 años de edad en una corporación de … [Read More...]
WALL CITY Edicion Espanol: Entre el cielo y la tierra
Por Lucía de la Fuente, Editora de español “Nadie puede decir en qué momento comienza el despertar del hombre” (Eduardo Subirats, Utopía y Subversión, 1975, p. 148) En lo que más me fijé la primera vez que te conocí, fue en tus manos. Grandes, con las uñas bien recortadas y con un tatuaje imperfecto. Tus manos siempre cargaban algo: una … [Read More...]
Wall City Edición Español: Marco Villa se prepara para la libertad
DErECHA, mArCO VILLA CON JAmES FOX DESPuÉS DE SALIr DE PrISIÓN Despues de pasar mas de una decada en prision, Marco Villa se reunira nuevamente con su madre y sus hijas, pero en esta ocasión como un hombre libre. El 7 de diciembre de 2017 Villa escuchó las palabras que cualquier preso, sirviendo una sentencia de cadena perpetua, añora … [Read More...]
Wall CITY Edición Español: ARTE EN PRISIÓN
Mural en la unidad H de San Quentin "Calvary" de Octavio Ocampo Recreada por: C. O'Neal en el 2010 … [Read More...]
WALL CITY Edición Español: Una política que ha roto sueños
Jennie, Luis y Ojeda y su mamá Lourdes Ortiz Luis Ojeda de 23 años, se encuentra en la Prisión de San Quentin cumpliendo una condena de seis años por asalto agravado. Después de cumplir su sentencia, Ojeda será deportado a la Ciudad de México. Su hermana Jennie, de 21 años, reside, estudia y trabaja en San José. Ella no ha tenido problemas … [Read More...]
WALL CITY Edición Español : La carcel no es lugar para guardar luto
Otoño del 2019 Volume 1 Publicación 1 Editor-en Jefe: Marcus Henderson Escritores: Tare Beltranchuc, Juan Haines Traducciones: Juan Espinosa Director de Arte: Vincent Turner Jr Vocero de SQ: Lt. Sam Robinson Oficina del director de SQ. : Raphaele Casale Vocero de CDCR: Joe Orlando Asesora y editora: Lourdes … [Read More...]
World renowned magicians tour and perform at SQ
Kayla Drescher reveals Brandon Riddell-Terrell gets no “date” 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 … [Read More...]
In-Depth: Charles ‘Pookie’ Sylvester striving to be part of SQ’s sports program
When we are thinking of iconic athletes that have been housed at The Q, there has been only one who has personified what it actually means to be a teammate. Charles Sylvester – also known as Pookie – made his mark in sports at The Q in 2012 when the West Block Warlocks beat All Madden Flag Football team on MLK Jr. holiday game in January 2012. … [Read More...]
Strong turnout and finish for the 13th Annual 1000 Mile Club Marathon
On a clear and crisp Friday morning, 30 of The Q’s 1000 Mile Club members started the race at 8am for 13th Annual SQ Marathon. One of the runners was going to be crowned a champion because the five previous winners were no longer housed at The Q. The favorite for the title, Fidelio Marin, took an early lead and held it for most of the run, … [Read More...]
RE:STORE SURVIVORS
By Angie Romero A lot of people can pinpoint the day their life changed forever. Many of us graduate college, get married, or have a child and think “This is it, this is the day my life changed forever!” And I have had these days and these thoughts. December 1, 2016 was a day that changed me forever. On this date my husband, Richard, was … [Read More...]
Bread & Roses perform for Death Row
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...]
Raise The Age law to focus on teens sentenced as adults
By Emily Nonko, Contributing Writer Until this year, New York and North Carolina, were the only states that prosecuted all youth as adults once they turned 16. The Raise the Age law, which went into full effect in New York in October, has raised the age of criminal responsibility to 18. The law is set to change thousands of lives: … [Read More...]
NEWS BRIEFS
Washington, D.C. — Gallup reports that for the first time in 34 years, a majority of Americans would rather sentence a murderer to life imprisonment with no possibility of parole than the sentence of death. The 60% to 36% difference for life imprisonment marks a shift from the past two decades, when Americans were mostly divided in their views on … [Read More...]
Donté Clark returns to SQ’s APEP with spoken word session
Donté Clark returned to San Quentin last November for a spoken word session and to rap with students seeking to earn their GEDs and go to college. Clark is a poet, who mentors young writers in Richmond, Ca. The Academic Peer Education Program (APEP) hosted Clark’s visit. Peer educator James Metters talked about incarcerated educator, Bobby … [Read More...]
A journey of losing of a loved one and working through the trauma
Replace A granddaughter’s wish came true when Brian Cahill decided to write about his son, her father John Cahill. Cops, Cons, and Grace: A Father’s Journey Through His Son’s Suicide, (2018) is a recount of how Brian Cahill reconciled the suicide of his beloved son, John, and found dignity for his family. Brian takes readers on a … [Read More...]
Remembering Patrick Maloney’s 40 years at San Quentin
Patrick Maloney taught art to incarcerated men at San Quentin for more than 40 years, his first 10 years were spent voluntarily teaching condemned men on Death Row. Maloney was born, Feb. 5, 1938. He passed away on Aug. 18, 2019, surrounded by his loving family and his art at the home that he built in Nicasio in the late 1960s. His … [Read More...]
Remembering a friend, veteran and devout church goer
Tony Burch with the US Marines at a veterans event in 2016 Tony Burch was a Navy veteran; however, it was his smile and singing that made him popular in San Quentin State Prison. He passed away on Nov. 6. He was 67 years old. Burch’s memorial began on Nov. 18 with a Color Guard of incarcerated veterans, with Garvin Robinson, Ernie Soltero, … [Read More...]
The value of Prison to Employment Connection on returning citizens through job opportunities and connections
Prison to Employment Connection’s Employer Day in November 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 … [Read More...]
Red Hoop drumming group brings sounds of life to SQ Pow Wow
Participants surrounding the Red Hoop drummers celebrated the unity of the human family 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 … [Read More...]
Tehachapi hosts 3rd Ethics Bowl against CSU Bakersfield
Submitted by Dian Grier, CCI Press Release CSUB and CCI Debaters of the 3rd Ethics Bowl For the third consecutive year, CCI (California Correctional Institution at Tehachapi) has hosted the annual Ethics Bowl against California State University, Bakersfield (CSUB). This year was a tie breaker for CCI, with a 3-0 win. “Intellectual Sports” … [Read More...]
San Francisco to replace Juvenile Hall with rehabilitative center
By Dillon Kim, Journalism Guild Writer San Francisco voted to close its Juvenile Hall and replace it with a smaller “rehabilitative center” to provide a more home-like setting for youths who don’t need to be detained but can’t return home. The Board of Supervisors voted 10-1 on June 4 to shut the facility by the end of 2021. Mayor … [Read More...]
Keeping the conversation going about HIV on World AIDS Day at SQ
Almost 20 years ago, Andrew Yancy felt a small lump on his neck. He told a nurse he thought it was a spider bite. There were examinations and tests — the results shocked him — he had been infected with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Since then, Yancy says he’s serious about educating people about HIV. He had a chance to make good on … [Read More...]
Incarcerated cooks learn top notch skills as they reenter the workforce
A class of men incarcerated at San Quentin graduated from a cooking course aimed at teaching them topnotch skills for reintegration into the workforce once released. Thanks to the Quentin Cooks program, the eight men showcased their newfound skills on Nov. 13 by preparing a four-course meal for visitors from outside the walls of San … [Read More...]
New transparency law goes into effect for public disclosure
By Steve Brooks, Journalism Guild Writer A new police transparency law went into effect in early October, leading to the public disclosure of Santa Clara County Sheriff Deputy David Tempra’s firing over a 2015 beating death. Tempra was fired for lying about the death of Michael Tyree, a mentally ill inmate. Deputies Rafael Rodriguez, … [Read More...]
Upcoming federal execution of intellectually disabled man
By Vincent O’Bannon, Journalism Guild Writer An intellectually disabled man scheduled for execution in January claims it would violate his constitutional rights. He is Alfred Bourgeois, one of five prisoners chosen by the U.S. Justice Department to be put to death in January 2020. Bourgeois’ lawyers claim his execution would … [Read More...]
Florida can’t use restitution or fines to stop ex-felons from voting
By Kerry Rudd, Journalism Guild Writer A federal court ruled that Florida cannot deny felons the right to vote based on their inability to pay fines or restitution. “In his order, U.S. District Judge Robert Hinkle of the Northern District of Florida halted the implementation of SB 7066, which required felons to pay all restitution, … [Read More...]
Oklahoma releases 462 incarcerated people in wake of reclassification
By William Earl Tolbert, Journalism Guild Writer Oklahoma has released 462 inmates in the wake of a law change that reclassified numerous felonies as misdemeanors. It was one of the largest single-day releases of inmates in U.S. history, according to the New York Times. Oklahoma has one of the nation’s highest per-capita incarceration … [Read More...]
9-year-old Illinois boy charged with murder and arson
By Kerry Rudd, Journalism Guild Writer An Illinois court recently charged a nine-year-old boy five first-degree murders and arson for starting a mobile home fire that killed five people. If convicted, the boy’s young age makes juvenile probation the only sentencing option available. He’s too young to be placed in any juvenile … [Read More...]
Let the people speak: Dear San Quentin News
Can America continue to ignore the massive impact excessively harsh incarceration tactics are having on this country? How many children must go through life without a mother or father because we refuse to address alternative resources that would allow fami- lies to be reunited sooner. Most child psychologist agree that alienating children from … [Read More...]
Being more conscious to our readers in the New Year
Happy New Year! Yeah, another year down and a decade gone. For those who have been incarcerated since the 1980s and ’90s, we have officially moved into what we call the Buck Rogers dates (named after the late ’70s TV show). This term was coined to show how far off someone’s release date was back then, so good luck in this decade. As times … [Read More...]
Call to action for renewed faith during October Revival Week
San Quentin Protestant chaplain, “Mother” Mardis Ralph Jackson, and some of the member leaders, took time to discuss the church’s Revival Week, which was celebrated during the third week of October. Revival Week is celebrated with weeklong services from Wednesday through Sunday. It featured the chaplain, Elder Derrick Holloway, Pastor Harry … [Read More...]
SQ Veterans Day brings chairperson of the National Endowment for the Arts
Veteran’s Day brought the chairperson of the National Endowment for the Arts, Mary Anne Carter, inside San Quentin to mingle with artists and incarcerated veterans. Joining Carter was Alma Robinson, executive director of California Lawyers for the Arts (CLA). “From the moment I walked in this room I was blown away by the visit and beautiful … [Read More...]
Advocates launch #MeTooBehindBars for those incarcerated
Crowd of participants bringing awareness to #MeTooBehindBars 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 … [Read More...]
Avenal’s “Timeless” group explores insight into our past
By Adam Jennings, Contributing Writer Participants and facilitators of the “Timeless” group At Avenal State Prison, the “Timeless” group is helping its incarcerated population explore the question “Can we grow into the men we want to be?” “Timeless” is a long-term offenders group that is held in the prison’s A Facility. The group aims … [Read More...]
SF Police personnel visit SQ for second “Blue on Blue” conversation
Small group discussion between the incarcerated and SF police personnel Two dozen San Francisco Police Department (SFPD) personnel made their way across San Quentin’s Lower Yard on Nov. 22 and stood among men they may have previously arrested. It was a part of the second “Blue-on-Blue Conversation” (BBC) held at the prison. Former SF Deputy … [Read More...]
Annual Christmas Banquet brings out the holiday spirit
Guests dining at a previous Christmas Banquet 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 … [Read More...]
SQ Transgender Day of Remembrance
Participants hold up trans lives matter sign 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 … [Read More...]
Lawrence Bartley leads new Marshall Project endeavor
Lawrence Bartley The Marshall Project publishes stories about the experiences of those impacted by the penal system. It does so in the one place most incarcerated people don’t have access to: online. That changed when Lawrence Bartley returned to society after serving 27 years in prison. He’s now the producer of Inside News Magazine, … [Read More...]
Attorneys' preparedness for parole hearings under review
Changes are underway to correct attorney preparedness and performance at parole board hearings for men and women serving life sentences in California, according to a survey by Life Support Alliance (LSA). “We don’t represent this as a conclusive survey, an empirical study of great depth or precise scientific analysis,” LSA stated in … [Read More...]
Ice cream company allies with criminal justice reform
By Alfred King, Journalism Guild Writer Ben & Jerry’s has announced a new ice cream flavor in support of criminal justice reform, “Justice Remix’d.” B&J, well known for its social activism, launched a new flavor chocolate ice cream coupled with gobs of cinnamon bun dough and spicy fudge brownie to “spotlight structural racism … [Read More...]
The Homecoming Project
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
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...]
Flag Football Round Up
By Dre’Quinn Johnson, Contributing Writer Play Marin-14 All Madden-40 (1-1) Play Marin, from the local area, came into The Q with 7 players and added a few of the men from the yard to play with them. Riddle-Terrell threw for four tds to DeSean Nichols, Johnny Lee, Bryant Underwood and Keiandre Arrington. He also ran for … [Read More...]
2019 Prison Sports Ministries All Star Winning Coach: Hamisi X. “Ski” Spears
In the 2nd annual SQ All Star Basketball Tournament, Coach Spears – who goes by the name “Ski,” won the title, defeating last years champion, Coach Caesar. Ski is a Old School Hip Hop aficionado, having an in-depth knowledge of rap and hip hop form its nascency through the late 90’s. His ability to recall the complete lyrics to songs is … [Read More...]
Formerly incarcerated women take their life struggles to the stage
Members of Persephone Project 2 A play about formerly incarcerated women who are struggling to rebuild their lives is a popular production in Illinois. “The show is about women coming through the prison system, starting with challenges in their life, then coming out, returning home, and looking to transform their life,” said Mars Caulton, … [Read More...]
San Quentin’s Prison University Project one step closer to full accreditation
ACCJC panel members Accrediting organization audits PUP classes to assess the university's effectiveness Representatives from the Association of Community Colleges and Junior Colleges (ACCJC) spent four days in October visiting and evaluating San Quentin’s Prison University Project (PUP). PUP applied for independent college … [Read More...]
NEWS BRIEFS
Raleigh, North Carolina — The ACLU Statewide Campaign for Smart Justice is moving to end putting incarcerated pregnant women in solitary confinement—some before convicted of any crimes, reports WNCN CBS17.com. Records that show in 2018, there were a total of 256 pregnant women behind bars at the North Carolina Correctional Institute for Women in … [Read More...]
SB 136 goes into effect on Jan. 1, 2020
Oct. 8, the Repeal Ineffective Sentence Enhancements (RISE) Coalition celebrated Gov. Gavin Newsom’s signature on SB 136: The RISE Act. The legislation, authored by Sen. Scott Wiener (D-San Francisco), dismantles a sentence enhancement that adds an extra year to an individual’s base sentence for each prior prison or felony jail term they already … [Read More...]
Inaccuracy of court records deprives people of constitutional rights
Many African Americans’ court testimony is inaccurately transcribed, according to a recent Criminal Legal News story. A recent study published in the Linguistic Society of America journal, Language, found that court reporters frequently misunderstand and misquote speakers of African American English (AAE) during court proceedings, an issue … [Read More...]
Flying Kites depicts the harsh realities of isolation in prison
A blending of visual manipulation with a literary representation of solitary confinement Students of the Stanford Graphic Novel Project produced a compelling and well-researched portrayal of the living conditions at Pelican Bay State Prison in an effort to show what it’s like to live in isolation. At first glance, Flying Kites: a Story of … [Read More...]
Americans see drop in violent crimes
By Kerry Rudd, Journalism Guild Writer Violent crime decreased in America during the past two years, except for rape, a recent analysis reports. Decreases were reported in murder, robbery and assault – three of the four categories of violent crime that the FBI tracks. The fourth is rape. “The rate for rape bucked this trend, however, … [Read More...]
Social media depicting prison experiences gaining popularity
By Alfred King, Journalism Guild Writer The prison experience meets social media. The popularity of YouTube prison channels that show viewers a slice of life behind prison walls has exploded. Former inmates, grappling with anxiety and family problems after release, have taken to popular social media networks to share their experiences … [Read More...]
Is "civil death" still warranted in a civilized society?
By Alfred King, Journalism Guild Writer Rhode Island considers anyone sentenced to life in prison to be “civilly dead,” meaning they have no civil rights. The law dates back some 100 years and stems from ancient English common law. New York has a similar law but does not enforce it, Mother Jones reported July 30. Prisoners declared … [Read More...]
Arizona prisoners racking up debt for needed medical procedures
Former prisoners of Arizona are being charged for medical procedures that should have been paid for by the state. Ashley Wilkeyson broke her ankle during a softball game at Perryville Women’s Prison while serving her sentence at Goodyear, Ariz. While still imprisoned Wilkeyson received a bill for $2907. Arizona requires prisoners to pay a … [Read More...]
Innocent man freed after 43 years in prison
Botched lineups and erroneous forensic evidence played major part in wrongful conviction An 81- year- old man once sentenced to death has been freed after 43 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, the Death Penalty Information Center reported. Charles Ray Finch, was released from Greene Correctional Institution in Maura, North … [Read More...]
They risk their lives for as little as $2.90 a day
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...]
Nghị Sĩ Bass Dẫn Đầu Sửa Đổi Hiến Pháp
Tờ báo Los Angeles Senti- nel tường thuật là bà nghị sĩ Karen Bass đang dẫn đầu để thành lập một pháp luật mới gọi là chương trình "One- Stop Reentry", và thay đổi hình luật tư pháp. "Chúng ta nên có một nơi có thể đưa ra thẻ tùy thân, để đăng ký cho trợ cấp, và liên hệ với dịch vụ y khoa, phương tiện giao thông—một nơi mà người có thể làm … [Read More...]
San Francisco sugiere humanizar el lenguaje hacia los presos
La Junta de Supervisores de la Ciudad de San Francisco aprobó recientemente una resolución que pretende humanizar el lenguaje que se utiliza para referirse a las personas que han estado encarceladas y que tienen antecedentes criminales. La resolución 336-19 reconoce el impacto dañino del lenguaje peyorativo y urge la ciudad a adoptar un … [Read More...]
Los Bay Outsiders se llevan una apabullante derrota de 7 a 1
Los Earthquakes de San Quentin pusieron una tremenda goliza a los Bay Outsiders en el partido amistoso celebrado el pasado 27 de octubre en la Prisión Estatal de San Quentin. Desde el inicio del partido, los Earthquakes dominaron el balón y lograron imponerse a su rival a lo largo de los 90 minutos de duración del juego. Los Earthquakes … [Read More...]
AROUND THE WORLD
Molly Kittle in Athens, Greece Sister Helen Prejean, Mike Farrell and Nan Sincero Holding an issue of Wall City magazine Sue-Jean Sung in Mongolia Sam Lewis, Ralph Diaz, Kai and Adnan Khan in Bastoy Prison Island, Norway Brits Perry Neech and Jessica Spinks in Rafina, Greece Andrew Beale and Taylor Gannon in Teotihuacan, México … [Read More...]
The healing power of drama therapy
Hamilton cast and crew posing on SQ Plaza People might think Marin Shakespeare at SQ simply provides prisoners the opportunity to display their acting talent—but there’s a whole lot more to it. The program actually bases its core principles around the rehabilitative benefits of drama therapy. Suraya Keating and Marianne S. facilitate the … [Read More...]
Performances spark emotions and raise awareness
The Oct. 23 performance of Marin Shakespeare at the San Quentin chapel featured another series of original parallel plays—inspired this time by The Winter’s Tale. David Gadley started things off by illustrating the inner turmoil caused by overdose and an unavoidable drug test in Making Better Choices, before Jason Griffin examined the trauma … [Read More...]
The surprise of original theater
Raiveon Wooden dragging Philippe Kelly offstage The flyers and playbills clearly advertised a collection of “parallel plays,” yet hardly anyone who attended Marin Shakespeare San Quentin’s October showcases knew quite what to expect. “The performances you will see today invite us to contemplate a crucial choice many of us must make in … [Read More...]
Hamilton meets Marin Shakespeare at San Quentin
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...]
Capturing prison life through art – Avenal artists create historic murals
By R. Ramirez, Contributing Writer Historical murals are being created by the men of Avenal State Prison’s Facility F yard, capturing the pains and transformations of prison life. A two-part mural was painted on the Facility F chow hall walls. It aims to tell a compelling story. The paintings begin with incarcerated people working on … [Read More...]
Some states fail to adopt court ruling favoring juvenile LWOPs
By Kerry Rudd, Journalism Guild Writer Hundreds of prisoners sentenced to life without the possibility of parole as juveniles now find themselves eligible to apply for resentencing, but need help to gain a hearing. The Supreme Court held in 2012 that mandatory life without parole for juveniles was unconstitutional in Miller v. … [Read More...]
KidCAT facilitator Bev Shelby returns home to Texas
Leaving a legacy of commitment and connection - she will be missed by many Bev Shelby walked out of San Quentin State Prison on Oct. 24 with a heart full of emotion and memories. Before moving back home to Texas, she came to share one last Thursday meeting with her KidCAT family. “I can’t hug you guys. That really pisses me off,” … [Read More...]
LET THE PEOPLE SPEAK: Letters to the editor
My utmost respects are extended in full fashion. Let me get right down to this article. I’ll be brief and direct. Hope to make a direct impact in today’s network that has been evolving over these decades. I’ve read a prior article that was written about militarization of CDCR that is today’s darkest secret. I’m sure your paper news media will … [Read More...]
San Diego County Jails experience highest number of inmate deaths
By Alfred King, Journalism Guild Writer San Diego County Jails reported 140 inmate deaths since 2009, exceeding any other county in the state. That was the same year Sheriff Bill Gore took over. It averages one inmate death per month for a decade. Causes included dying of natural causes, such as chronic health conditions, drug … [Read More...]
Los Angeles DA in hot water for racial disparities in prosecution
The Los Angeles district attorney is facing sharp criticism for her handling of criminal justice issues, including capital punishment. District Attorney Jackie Lacey’s handling of the death penalty is “shameful” and riddled with racial bias, according to a report by the American Civil Liberties Union. Lacey’s tenure is in sharp contrast … [Read More...]
Report finds high rates of recidivism in prisoners released from SF County jail
By Alfred King, Journalism Guild Writer Approximately 43% of people released from the San Francisco County Jail were rearrested within a three-year period, a new report reveals. The data collected by the San Francisco District Attorney’s Office tracked the recidivism rates of 9,407 people in the county jail, the San Francisco … [Read More...]
Addressing racial bias in the criminal justice system
Removing racial information from police reports could reduce disproportionality Using technology to remove racial information from police reports before prosecutors decide to file charges should reduce racial disparities in America’s justice system, former San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon says. Gascon enlisted the aid of … [Read More...]
Challenge to Oregon's treatment of trans prisoners may pave way for change
Brady Hall is a transgender inmate in Oregon who petitioned the court to transfer from male housing to a female facility. (Transgender people do not identify with the gender with which they were born.) She wanted to move from Two Rivers Correctional Institution —a male facility in Umatilla County, Oregon—to a women’s prison. In her petition, she … [Read More...]
What happens when the power goes out in prison?
The power went off at San Quentin State Prison, leaving thousands of prisoners and custody staff together in a dark and perilous situation in October. In the prison’s North Block and West Block, about 1,500 men were moving around outside of their cells inside the two five-story buildings when the power outage caught them and about a … [Read More...]
Louisiana taking steps to keep families connected
A new program is helping Louisiana girls keep in touch with their incarcerated fathers. “Not being able to see my father has been traumatizing,” said Dominque Jones, whose father has been in prison since before she was born. She organized a program that helps girls cope with the strain of life without their incarcerated dads. “When I was … [Read More...]
Norways approach to incarceration sets new standard
Replace Norway is taking the lead in Europe when in it comes to prison reform and rehabilitation, according to Emma Jane Kirby of the BBC. The country has moved away from just locking people up and throwing away the key, to an approach of cutting the prison population and finding ways to stop the reoffending rates. “In Norway, the … [Read More...]
Warren and criminal justice reform
Presidential candidate and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) finally focused her attention and political career on criminal justice reform. Her plan includes combatting crime and improving public safety, according to an August Vox article. Warren’s proposal emphasizes establishing a clemency board for early release, investing more on … [Read More...]
Ex-felon joins judicial commission
Wrongfully convicted Hakim Crampton recalls his generation was told while growing up that “We were going to be dead or in prison. And we believed it,” he said to reporter Ashley Graham of WLNS in Jackson Michigan. Crampton was in prison for 15 years until he was granted parole after proving his innocence. Like the biblical man Joseph, who … [Read More...]
Feds consider releasing prisoners
The Justice Department and Attorney General William Barr are working together to release non-violent criminals following decades in prison, according to Michael Balsamo of The Associated Press. The Trump administration signed a new bi-partisan law last year called the First Step Act. The Act allows federal courts to release prisoners who are … [Read More...]
Federal judge slams prosecutors for mishandling evidence
A federal judge has held prosecutors in contempt for failing to preserve evidence in a case involving recorded conversations between prisoners and attorneys. Some 110 defendants alleged the recordings violated 6th Amendment protections. Three defendants had their sentences vacated or indictments dismissed, the ABA Journal reported in … [Read More...]
Multiple exonerations follow deputy’s arrest
A recently fired Florida sheriff’s deputy was arrested for planting false evidence in cars he had pulled over. Some 120 convicted persons were exonerated once the actions of Zachary Wester were discovered. “There’s no question that Wester’s crimes were deliberate and that his actions put innocent people in jail,” said Chris Williams of the … [Read More...]
Conditions unsafe for the incarcerated in some southern prisons
Many prisons in the South lack air conditioning and this creates life-threatening conditions in heat spells, the Prison Policy Initiative reports. “The lack of air conditioning in Southern prisons creates unsafe -- even lethal --conditions,” the report stated. “Prolonged exposure to extreme heat can cause dehydration and heat stroke, both of … [Read More...]
California legislators want to streamline re-entry
New "one-stop" program would acknowledge many hurdles for returning citizens Congresswoman Karen Bass Congresswoman Karen Bass is spearheading legislation to create a one-stop reentry program, as well as criminal justice reform, according to the Los Angeles Sentinel. “There should be a place where you can get your ID, sign up for … [Read More...]
A governor's commutation gives Laverne Shoemaker a second chance
Laverne outside CCWF women's prison Laverne Shoemaker overcame what some prison reform activists call “a living death sentence.” Shoemaker was serving life without the possibility of parole (LWOP) until her sentence was commuted by then-Gov. Jerry Brown. After 26 years, Laverne (Dej) DeJohnette Shoemaker walked free in June. “I am a … [Read More...]
A profile of success: Antwan "Banks" Williams
Ear Hustle cofounder has lasting impact on his community - both inside and out of prison Antwan "Banks" Williams Antwan “Banks” Williams, 31, one of the co-founders of the celebrated podcast Ear Hustle, paroled from San Quentin in October. Imprisoned at the dawn of adulthood, he had to mature behind bars. Williams said he “can’t fathom” … [Read More...]
California law paves the way for ex-felons to serve on juries
Formerly incarcerated have hopes to fill jury boxes 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 … [Read More...]
Alameda County top prosecutor in favor of rehabilitation
Alameda County District Attorney Nancy O’Malley 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 … [Read More...]
The visionary who resurrected San Quentin News
Former Warden Robert Ayers Jr. 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 … [Read More...]
Annual KidCAT banquet celebrates service to others
KidCAT members, facilitators, and guests at the 2019 KidCAT Banquet on October 4, 2019 This year’s KidCAT banquet celebrated the magic and power that comes through dedicating one’s self to being of service to others. Outside volunteers, CDCR staff, incarcerated men and returning citizens gathered in the San Quentin chapel Oct. 4 for an … [Read More...]
Family, community and music fill Makahiki celebration
Auntie Adel’s Ukelele Group’s Neil Prudente, Chanton Bun, Tith Ton, Jackson, Adel “Auntie” Serafino, Jackson, Moua Vue, Sean Koyota, Patrick Makukane and Louis Salé 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 … [Read More...]
San Quentin Athletics: 38-2
The San Quentin A’s finished the regular season at 38-2, having a 33-0 win streak to begin the year. This is the best sporting record at The Q, ever. Below are the San Quentin Athletics coaches, general manager, players and game officials. Anthony “T Tone” Denard co-captain, 1st Base, pitcher Angelo “The Meech” Mecchi infield, … [Read More...]
San Quentin’s 2019 Championship Basketball League Draft
Mekhi “Fly-Khi” Williams was the first pick in San Quentin’s 2019 Championship Basketball League (CBL) draft. “It’s a cool feeling, being picked number one,” Williams said. “Now I gotta show and prove.” Aaron “Showtime” Taylor created the CBL, which provides a positive activity for the incarcerated. Players of all skill levels and ages are … [Read More...]
Coco Guaff, Naomi Osaka and Serena Williams
Good sportsmanship, among the current millennial generation, is lacking in today’s social media environment. The impact that we have on a person or team that we’ve played hard to defeat, followed by the humility to uplift the defeated as one worthy of honor, is a lesson that seems lost in today’s sporting atmosphere. Then, there’s Serena … [Read More...]
All Madden 0-1 against Michael Vick’s Georgia United team
By Dre’Quinn Johnson Contributing Writer San Quentin’s Flag Football program opened the 2019 season in late September with All Madden playing Georgia United (GU), a team put together by former NFL quarterback and current Fox Sports co-host Michael Vick. Final score? 32-14, with All Madden taking a loss on the their first Sunday … [Read More...]
In-Depth: Warriors’ Emerald “The Ghost” Kemp-Aikens
By Malik Ali Journalism Guild Writer Emerald “The Ghost” Kemp-AIkens on the court Emerald Kemp-Aikens is a 25-year-old man from Berkeley, Calif. He was on the San Quentin Warriors basketball team and enrolled in the education department in pursuit of his GED when he received some very heartbreaking news. In May 2019, staff informed him … [Read More...]
Historical fiction gives account of the slave trade
Homegoing, a debut novel by Yaa Gyasi (2016), explores the unhealed wounds of slavery, compellingly rendered through several hundred years, seven generations, fourteen characters over a span of two continents. The title, “Homegoing,”comes from an old African-American belief that death allowed an en- slaved person’s spirit to travel back to Africa. … [Read More...]
Twelve CDCR prisons are in dire need of repair
Don Spector, Director of the Prison Law Office: “Prisons are literally crumbling” San Quentin’s West Block 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 … [Read More...]
San Quentin workers donate more than $7,000 to non-profits
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...]
Study advances alternative form of criminal justice
A new study outlines a restorative justice strategy based on “public redemption” that the authors claim produces lower recidivism rates than traditional criminal justice punishment strategies. Public redemption, the study claims, produces an avenue for offenders to tell the truth and be accountable for bad deeds with an outcome that’s beneficial … [Read More...]
San Francisco looks towards changing its language relative to justice involved persons
Supervisors hope to eliminate stigmatization by changing criminal justice labels By Charles Crowe Staff Writer San Francisco officials urge a softening of criminal justice language to more humanize incarcerated people. “The words ‘felon,’ ‘offender,’ ‘convict,’ ‘addict,’ and ‘juvenile delinquent’ would be part of the past in official San … [Read More...]
Recent decline in most US state prisons still insufficient
By The Ella Baker Center for Human Rights Most states have downsized their prison populations in recent years, but the pace of decarceration is insufficient to undo nearly four decades of unrelenting growth. The recent pace of decline would take 72 years to cut the US prison population by 50%, according to a new analysis by The Sentencing … [Read More...]
Governor Gavin Newsom signs new justice bills into law
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed 25 bills on Oct. 8 aimed at setting a path to reform California’s criminal justice system, he reported in a news release. The bills include support for those reentering the community after serving their sentences, including creating a system to automatically expunge records of individuals previously convicted of … [Read More...]
LET THE PEOPLE SPEAK- DEAR SAN QUENTIN NEWS
In your April 2019 (Edition 115) issue of the SQ News ran an article about my having been found suitable for parole after nearly 50 years of imprisonment. Now, ordinarily I would’ve felt honored that the editorial staff of SQ News had taken an interest in my situation. I have long admired the [organization’s] efforts around humanizing prisoners, … [Read More...]
Reflecting on the Texas murder of an unarmed Black man
Amy Guyger, the White former Texas officer who killed unarmed Botham Jean, a Black man in his home, was found guilty of murder last month. Race normally wouldn’t or shouldn’t be an issue when it comes to a tragedy, but with the inequalities in the U.S. criminal justice system it will most likely be a part of the conversation. As an incarcerated … [Read More...]
The UK revises prisoner work furlough policies
By—Alfred King In the United Kingdom, more prisoners are being allowed to take outside jobs while serving their sentence. Both England and Wales have adopted new policies concerning the release of prisoners to work in the community, BBC News reports. This change in current policy comes as the government seeks ways to reduce re-offending, … [Read More...]
Maine and Vermont encourage the incarcerated to cast their vote even while in prison
When most felons go to prison they lose their right to vote in most of the 50 states, the strongest exceptions being Maine and Vermont, reported Mother Jones. Depending on what you were convicted for, states like Mississippi, Alaska and Alabama let some of their prison population vote. Volunteers at the Maine and Vermont prisons come into the … [Read More...]
La diversidad de los deportes en San Quentin hacen la diferencia
Por Pedro Espinal Escritor de periodismo Los deportes en la prisión de San Quentin tienen una larga e interesante historia que ha contribuido al entrenamiento y espíritu competitivo de muchos reos. Al comienzo del siglo XX los prisioneros jugaban deportes en el campo de recreo. Aunque los deportes no eran tan variados como ahora, se divertían … [Read More...]
Air Force vet commits to working with youth organizations
KidCAT’s Will VanBrackle and his wife, Kellene 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 … [Read More...]
Ad agency ConCreates embraces incarcerated employees
ConCreates is an advertising agency started by a former prison inmate and staffed by 436 incarcerated men and women—plus 319 ex-cons successfully working on the outside, reports fastcompany.com “Our mission is to challenge the stigma of how society views people with criminal history, as well as how people with criminal history view themselves,” … [Read More...]
Working to shift philanthropic investments to include prison education
Prison University Project students at work in class “Education of incarcerated people must be included in the overall strategy to transform society,” said Dr. Jody Lewen Executive Director of San Quentin’s Prison University Project (PUP) in a July 23 interview with SQ News. Dr. Lewen ‘s opinion is shared by an increasing number of educators, … [Read More...]
Formerly incarcerated entrepreneurs successful in business
Entrepreneurship does not define where you have been, but where you are going. Formerly incarcerated Teresa Hodge, Marcus Bullock, and David Figueroa have all launched successful businesses despite all having a troubled past that led them to prison, reported the ABA Journal. “It was as if prison provided a moment of clarity—a place to plan and … [Read More...]
Retail giant Alibaba gives workshop on working in E-commerce
As part of an interviewing workshop, Peter Stern, from online retail giant Alibaba, told about two dozen incarcerated computer coders that learning Mandarin is a big plus, if they want to get a job with the E-commerce company. Although the Chinese firm does not have a policy on hiring formerly incarcerated people, Stern said that his … [Read More...]
Many top American companies were founded by immigrants
About 45% of America’s top companies were founded by immigrants or their children. These firms brought in $6.1 trillion in revenues in the fiscal year 2018, according to a recent report. This figure put into context is larger than the GDP of Germany, Japan and the United Kingdom, reports the New American Economy Research Fund. These companies … [Read More...]
Around the World
Andy Alpine, co-facilitator of SQ’s Developing A Positive Attitude, in St. Lucia Project REACH Teacher Nan Sincero at the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, South Africa Gordon Melvin on the banks of the Peace River in Northern Alberta SQ News Adviser Jan Perry at the Eiffel Tower in Paris … [Read More...]
A journey of recovery and reclamation for Officer Calvo
Correctional Officer Calvo with his kitchen crew 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 … [Read More...]
San Quentin’s Boot Hill to exhume veterans for proper burials
Complying with a 1935 law, Marin County has agreed to exhume San Quentin’s Boot Hill veterans and give them each proper burials in a national cemetery with full military honors. San Quentin opened its doors for business as California’s only prison in 1852. It was meant to house over 3,000 of the most notorious, most hardened, most deadly and … [Read More...]
Filmmaking team premierès College Behind Bars at SQ
Bard Prison Initiative (BPI) graduates celebrate at Taconic Correctional Facility in June 2017 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 … [Read More...]
Avenal State Prison holds first annual Children’s Hospital art donation
All those who created artwork pieces featuring roses, cards, and knitted R2D2 and BB8 (inserts) for the Valley Children’s Hospital This is the first annual Valley Children’s Hospital hobby donation on C-yard. By Ms. D’s graciousness we were able to host a hobby donation for the children. Those photographed participated by putting their talents … [Read More...]
TRUST facilitators go home but find new blood to lead
TRUST participants, members and facilitators share one last photo before leaving prison 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 … [Read More...]
11 annual Walk for a Cure
Correctional and administrative staff in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month in front of SQ’s Tower 1 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 … [Read More...]
La meta no es solo ganar un maratón sino ganar una batalla de vida
Voluntarios y miembros del 1000 Mile Running Club y miembros del Skid Row club de Los Angeles en la Lower Yard de SQ El 1000 Mile Running Club llevo a cabo la octava carrera anual de tres horas de entrenamiento con miras al maratón del mes de noviembre. Un promedio de 25 corredores se anotaron para participar y batir sus propios records. La … [Read More...]
Raising awareness during 2nd annual Mental Wellness Week
—Joe Garcia —David Ditto and Anthony Faulk contributed CDCR Undersecretary Kathleen Allison, BPH Chief Psychologist Cliff Kusaj and BPH’s Jennifer Shaffer holding up Hope T-shirts Incarcerated and outside members of the San Quentin community joined forces to emotionally support one another and raise awareness during the prison’s second … [Read More...]
No More Tears violence prevention program originates from the heart
No More Tears’ Lonnie Morris right) and members of Healing (center) with Mattie Scott (center for Our Families and Our Nations 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 … [Read More...]
America has a dark little secret – ADX
The Federal Government’s highest security prison put prisoners in the harshest conditions Florence, Colorado, is home of the Federal Government’s highest security prison: The United States Penitentiary Administrative Maximum Facility (ADX), According to experts, ADX prisoners are exposed to more extreme conditions of isolation and sensory … [Read More...]
Seven more years to apply for state victims funds
California crime victims would have another seven years to apply for state victims funds under legislation introduced in the State Senate. The current deadline is three years. Approximately 100 crime survivors fail to apply in time for about $84,000 each year, Witness LA reported July 21. The measure is SB375 by Sen. Maria Elena Durazo (D-Los … [Read More...]
California expands higher education access for prisoners
A new program offering bachelor’s degrees to prison inmates is thriving in Los Angeles County. “It’s about making people who can reach all their potential,” said Bidhan Roy, an English professor for the program at Lancaster in the Mojave Desert. The bachelor’s program allows each student to take up to two classes per semester. It currently … [Read More...]
Big Wheels to the Big House covers victimization as well as hopes and dreams
“The world is cold and dark...Who cares?!” That’s what’s on the book cover of Juvenile Offenders: From Big Wheels to the Big House (2018) by Rosemary Jenkins. The page-turner is a learning journey of what it’s like to survive unthinkable victimization, learn to be accountable and then, in the process, generating personal hopes and dreams. … [Read More...]
Valley State Prison honors program participants
Its annual Motivational Tour highlighted the group's progress By Joseph Hader, Contributing Writer For the past three years, the Youth Offender Program has held its annual Motivational Tour at Valley State Prison, celebrating its progress and honoring its participants and supporters. This year’s event was a bit different, however, … [Read More...]
Pelican Bay inmates break down barriers of stigmatization
The PEACE Group By Little John Perry Over the years, Pelican Bay has been considered the worst prison in California. Since its establishment in 1989, the ‘Bay’ has been infamous for housing the most hardened criminals the state holds– hence the even more infamous Security Housing Unit (SHU). There are countless tales of violence on both … [Read More...]
Ministry volunteers bring message of hope to San Quentin inmates
Where would you run for cover and whom would you take with you if you woke up tomorrow and the world had come to an end? Ask Pastor Tom Pham and his minis- try team these questions and they’ll tell you exactly what they would do – that is, running to God for cover and taking with them as many lives as possible. It is this spirit that brought … [Read More...]
Governor's moratorium on death penalty has not stop capital sentences
By Alfred King Journalism Guild Writer The governor’s moratorium on executions has not stopped some California district attorneys from seeking the death penalty in new cases they prosecute. District attorneys “across the state have continued to pursue capital charges against defendants,” the Sacramento Bee reported July 17. Lawyers working … [Read More...]
Rechazan correlación entre inmigración indocumentada y crimen
No existe una correlación significativa entre inmigrantes indocumentados y crimen, sugiere una reciente investigación. Un estudio realizado por el Marshall Project y el New York Times reveló que los crímenes violentos y de propiedad disminuyeron entre 2007 y 2016 en áreas donde viven inmigrantes indocumentados. El estudio desaprueba la … [Read More...]
Empleo en la prisión: Una jornada laboral que se paga en centavos
Los prisioneros en el estado de California trabajan un promedio de ocho horas por día, pero ganan centavos en vez de dólares. José Ledesma de 69 años de edad y quien cumple una sentencia de 15 años, dice que su trabajo en la cocina de la prisión de San Quentin no le ayuda mucho porque debido a su horario le es difícil participar en programas … [Read More...]
AROUND THE WORLD
Susanne Karch with sisters Gunilla and Agneta on the small island of Kӓringӧn off the West Coast of Sweden Dr. Susan Rahman in front of the wall that divides Palestine and Israel PUP instructor Sophie FitzMaurice across the pond … [Read More...]
LET THE PEOPLE SPEAK
Letters to the editor Before These Walls Before these walls, I laughed out loud and freely After these walls, my laughter sounds strange and forced Before these walls, I loved first and doubted later After these walls, I rarely love and always doubt Before these walls, I saw the best in everyone After these walls, I seek what’s below … [Read More...]
Local television station honors three with the Jefferson Award for their public service at San Quentin
San Quentin employee Raphaele Casale has been presented The Jefferson Award for Public Service for her behind the scenes community work. Raphaele Casale Casale is an office technician who works in the San Quentin warden’s office. She also runs the prison’s music program and is one of the staff sponsors for the SQUIRES (San Quentin … [Read More...]
Street Spirit Editor in Chief Alastair Boone talks about her work
Alastair Boone is the editor-in-chief of a publication aiming to empower its target population. Street Spirit is a San Francisco Bay Area-based homeless advocacy newspaper. Local un- housed residents run the paper, which was founded in 1995. During a visit to San Quentin last May, Boone shared her story and explained that under her direction … [Read More...]
SQ veterans lose innovative facilitator Rebecca Haskell
Rebecca Haskell, an outside facilitator working with Veterans Healing Veterans (VHV), has impacted San Quentin’s incarcerated veteran community like few have before her. Haskell’s exuberant and immersive style of leadership training enabled SQ’s dedicated core of veteran facilitators to reach new levels of interactive communication— an … [Read More...]
Two restorative justice classes celebrate completion
Incarcerated men and community members from the local San Francisco Bay Area met in San Quentin’s Protestant Chapel on Aug. 16 to celebrate the graduation of two restorative justice programs. The Victim Offender Education Group (VOEG pronounced “vogue”) and Next Step honored dozens of incarcerated men who completed the year- long programs, … [Read More...]
KidCAT members unite and bid farewell as leadership roles transition
Youth offenders and prisoners focus on incorporating the entire community The latest graduating cycle of KidCAT’s First Step curriculum marked the end of a distinct era in this ground- breaking program’s history. The youth offender support community celebrated and said heartfelt goodbyes on June 30 to four of its outside volunteer … [Read More...]
Changes coming to San Francisco County jail – free phone calls
Two dramatic changes are coming to the San Francisco CountyJail–free phone calls for prisoners and reduced markups for commissary items. “These fees are overwhelmingly paid for by the friends and families of the incarcerated, especially low income women. It was a clear equity issue,” said the mayor’s spokesperson, Jeff Cretan. Mayor London … [Read More...]
They found a home among others with similar stories
On May 1, the first Transgender Support Group began at San Quentin Prison with two mental health clinicians and me as an adviser on Wednesdays in the hospital, so the transgenders can support each other as a group. The group meets from 1:30-3 p.m. on the second floor of the hospital with J. Lopez and J. Spohn, who both have a master’s … [Read More...]
Realignment may have created more dangerous county jails
Since the U.S. Supreme Court ordered California to overhaul its overcrowded prisons in 2011 and realignment reforms were implemented, inmate-on-inmate homicides have risen 46 percent in county jails statewide. Killings have tripled and even quadrupled in several counties, according to a report by Jason Pohl and Ryan Gabrielson of the Sacramento … [Read More...]