New San Quentin program aims to stop misuse of guns and safer communities
Over 70 gun offenders gather in San Quentin’s Chapel B every Friday to discuss the factors surrounding their incarceration. Gangs, anger, vengeance, greed, and protection are just a few of the motives they mention in Arms Down, a rehabilitation program geared towards stopping misuse of firearms in communities and ending the cycle of addiction … [Read More...]
SQ residents celebrate friend, mentor Bernard Moss
Incarcerated people at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center, as well as self-help volunteers, reflected on the loss of a unique, caring person. Bernard Moss graduated from the Guiding Rage Into Power self-help program in 2014 and paroled from San Quentin in 2016. His death on June 8, 2024, was a shock to many, as he left behind a loving … [Read More...]
Three HFM workers exhibit quick action, compassion
A loud groan followed by a heavy thump broke the silence as Edward Brooks and his co-workers cleaned an office in San Quentin’s medical unit in late September 2023. They stared at each other and immediately began searching for the source of the noise, Brooks recalled. “I’ve always had a kind heart towards people from my upbringing; but, … [Read More...]
Joy, pomp and circumstance at Mt. Tam College
SQ residents receive their AA Degrees Seven students of Mount Tamalpais College graduated in a ceremony in Chapel B June 28. The commencement for California’s only private college inside the CDCR had the graduates walk up to the stage in a slow procession, proceeding with exactly four feet distance from one another, stepping to the gravity … [Read More...]
Tier Talk: All-American quarterback disciples on the gridiron
From a quarterback at Grant High in Sacramento to life in prison, Tommie Hall transformed his life around his faith in Jesus Christ and beating youngsters on San Quentin’s gridiron. Anthony Manuel Caravalho: You had the world in your hands but wound up at CDCR, how? Tommie Hall: Two words: gangs and drugs. I was prideful about my athletic … [Read More...]
U.S. Supreme Court decision allows SQ Covid lawsuits to proceed
The U.S. Supreme Court denied without dissent or further comments a State of California motion to dismiss a San Quentin-related Covid lawsuit, which allowed lawsuits against the state to proceed. The state faced four major lawsuits filed by families of San Quentin staff and incarcerated persons who had died of Covid and by survivors of the Covid … [Read More...]
Residents vote to recognize best staff
The exceptional leaders of San Quentin’s California Model were recognized in the first Shining Star Staff Recognition ceremony in which residents voted for the staff person they felt had best exhibited California Model characteristics. Acting Warden Chance Andes and San Quentin’s Chief Executive Officer Rhonda Litt said they created the new … [Read More...]
San Quentin residents “skate” to fundraising goal for disadvantaged youth
San Quentin resident artists displayed wooden skateboards painted in a variety of artistic styles to help raise funds to local disadvantaged youth. The eighth annual skateboard art donation event opened July 6 at Eureka’s Epitome Gallery. The 25 skateboards went on display for a month before selling for $150 each. “I have a special connection … [Read More...]
SF DA discusses domestic violence in SQ forum
Brooke Jenkins and her San Francisco District Attorney’s office sat with dozens of San Quentin residents in the Media Center for candid and informative conversations. The July 12 dialogue centered on preventive and intervention strategies to domestic violence and system-impacted youth. “Coming into San Quentin reinforces our department’s … [Read More...]
Self-help and self-discovery programs provide insight on victimization
Incarcerated and formerly incarcerated people are proving skeptics wrong by transforming themselves through self-help and self-discovery programs. “I paroled from San Quentin nearly 10 years ago. The reason I haven’t relapsed back into my previous criminal behavior is because I delved into the self-help groups San Quentin provided, and I made … [Read More...]
Life Support Alliance support informs residents on insight, parole hearing
Over a hundred San Quentin residents attended a four-day “Connecting the Dots” workshop to gain knowledge about causative factors of crime, the act of making amends, and the process of parole hearings. Life Support Alliance founders Vanessa and Dave Sloan and LSA representative Jeff Dupree presented information for residents with life … [Read More...]
Staff redeem their losing streak with win in kickball
The first kickball match organized by San Quentin Rehabilitation Center’s California Model resource team allowed staff to redeem their losing streak against the incarcerated. The staff won 7-5. “I’m glad we finally won our first event against the incarcerated, even though I didn’t get on base, it was a team effort,” said Lt. G. … [Read More...]
Kid CAT partners with The Beat Within for weekly writing workshop
It is a Monday night in the ARC trailer on San Quentin’s Lower Yard. There is a circle of chairs with incarcerated people and two outside volunteers sitting in them talking about past situations and choices made during adolescent years. Some are fond memories and some are difficult to recount. The stories shared come from people from all walks of … [Read More...]
San Quentin residents make hygiene care packages for indigent, newcomers
Hundreds of San Quentin residents donated hygiene supplies to help provide over a hundred care packages for indigent residents and newcomers to San Quentin. The idea came to fruition when residents Troy Makanski, Coby Phillips, and Tony Tafoya worked in a communal effort with California Model Correctional Officers Hauwert, Kruse, and Sergeant … [Read More...]
Nearly half of American prisons located near toxic water sources
Thousands exposed to toxins linked to cancer According to a new study, cancer causing pollutants, known as “forever chemicals” maybe found in nearly half of U.S. prisons that are located near toxic water sources, reported The Hill. The study published in the American Journal of Public Health noted PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl … [Read More...]
El luto entre los encarcelados
La comunidad de San Quentin se unió por tercera vez en conmemorar a los residentes y voluntarios que fallecieron durante el año 2023. El evento dio la oportunidad de honrar y nombrar a hermanos y hermanas quienes fallecieron durante su encarcelamiento y también de aquellos que fallecieron después de ser liberados. “Nosotros no … [Read More...]
Multi-day workshop educates residents on science of reconditioning body
San Quentin residents attended a multiple-day workshop to inform themselves about the three parts used by the brain to connect personality with personal reality. In June, the non-profit Give-to-Give put on the event for the second time in the last year. Nearly a hundred residents learned about the science of change and the way reconditioning … [Read More...]
Annual Narcotics Anonymous banquet held for first time since COVID-19
The Narcotics Anonymous group hosted its annual banquet at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center July12, which packed a large crowd of residents and outside volunteers and organizers into Chapel B. The event began with a moment of silence, followed by a reading of the Serenity Prayer. The event’s host, resident Steve Stevens, said the event had the … [Read More...]
‘Tough on crime’ is making a comeback, weakening criminal justice reforms
Lawmakers across the United States are retreating on criminal justice reforms, moving back toward a “tough on crime,” according to an article in USA Today. These rollbacks range from repealing voter approved drug decriminalization laws to lessening parole and early release opportunities. Politicians from Louisiana, Oregon, California, and … [Read More...]
Exploring the history of women who served on death row
For nearly 80 years, from 1855 to 1933, San Quentin housed the state’s incarcerated female population. In the years that followed, four more women would come to live inside the prison’s walls to spend their final hours on California’s once infamous Death Row. In her book, “San Quentin: Inside the Walls,” Nancy Ann Nichols offers a look into the … [Read More...]
‘Respecting the sancity of all human life’: Santa Clara DA takes 15 men off death row
California State Legislation permits prosecutors to resentence individuals if their sentence further serves no interest of justice, according to KTVU. Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff Rosen filed a resentencing motion for 15 men currently on death row. The aim of the DA is not to set them free, but to reduce their death sentence to life … [Read More...]
Defy Ventures offers training in entrepreneurship while serving time
San Quentin’s Mount Tamalpais College sponsored an entrepreneurship workshop, with aspirations of bringing a curriculum to the prison. The Defy Ventures Entrepreneurship workshop was the first of its kind at the facility. More than 50 SQ residents attended the event, held in the prison’s Education Annex (B-Building). The program’s aim … [Read More...]
California Men’s Colony hosts Day of Atonement: Victim and offender dialogue
For the 2nd Annual A Day for Atonement, held during National Crime Victims Week on April 23, 2024 in the Protestant Chapel at California Men‘s Colony (CMC), the incarcerated population participated in an event where survivors and victims of crime shared their stories and brought awareness of their experiences to offenders. Hosted by resident … [Read More...]
SQ sports: Triple threat in the making
A story about a trio of basketball players Throughout the history of sports, trios have formed foundations of some of the greatest teams. From Russell-Jones-Havlicek to Kareem-Magic-Worthy, and from Michael-Scottie-Rodman to Steph-Klay-Draymond, trios have not only solidified greatness but also provided legacies for generations of … [Read More...]
NEWS BRIEFS – June 2024
Maryland (Associated Press) – A wrongful conviction costed the state $3 million. Governor Wes Moore offered up an apology to the man who served 31 years in prison. “On behalf of the entire state, I’m sorry for the failure of the justice system, More said. A law judge also found that the man is entitled to the current median household income or … [Read More...]
Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment program graduates 28 residents
Program promotes recovery to residents at San Quentin The Integrated Substance Use Disorder Treatment program held its graduation at SQ in late April. At noon, dressed in their black caps and gowns, graduates wore outward displays of their accomplishments. The ISUDT program provides timely and effective treatment in an effort to reduce … [Read More...]
Se incrementó el numero de hispanos graduados en el periodismo en español
En el mundo del encarcelamiento, el periodismo sigue creciendo y cambiando. Diecinueve residentes se graduaron de la clase de perio - dismo en español. Siendo uno de los grupos mas grandes de periodismo en español en el Centro de Rehabilitación de San Quentin. El Director Chance Andes, quien abrió la ceremonia felicitando a los 39 graduados, … [Read More...]
Bridging the gap at California Medical Facility
Governor Gavin Newsom’s vision for the California Model has been slowly implemented in San Quentin Rehabilitation Center’s with the intent to redirect the culture of incarceration. The work of transformation has now begun to spread throughout the CDCR. The California Medical Facility hosted its first “Bridging the Gap” basketball game this year. … [Read More...]
“Learning to Heal”: A book by Harry Goodall
The founder of the self-help program, E.A.T. Emotional Awareness Therapy, Harry C. Goodall, penned a book called, Learning to Heal. The book outlines some of the 12 Steps that he uses in his group sessions at San Quentin prison. Goodall has published many articles in other publications and with his knowledge and experience with Behavioral … [Read More...]
San Quentin resident embarks on a new journey with Solitary Watch
Award-winning incarcerated journalist, Juan Moreno Haines, 66, has a new title. Once an accomplished reporter and editor at the San Quentin News, he has risen to the ranks of editor-in-chief of the outside publication Solitary Watch. “Naming Juan Haines editor-in-chief is among the most important things we have ever done,” Solitary Watch … [Read More...]
Editorial: Ideological tug-of-war
How do you transform a correctional system that has been built on institutionalized “prison politics”? These hidden politics consist of violence, racism, retaliation humiliation, and a rampant gang mentality that has been fostered by some, if not most, correctional officers and prisoners/residents alike. The implementation of the California … [Read More...]
SQ mental health therapists use recreational games for treatment
The San Quentin Mental Health Department offers recreation therapy, an important aspect of rehabilitation for the incarcerated. The Enhanced Outpatient Program (EOP) in H-unit, supervised by Dr. Robin Farrell, "employs four recreation therapists. They facilitate different therapy groups, assisting clinicians with their patient care." The … [Read More...]
San Quentin holds second annual Victim Awareness event
The San Quentin Rehabilitation Center held its second annual victims awareness event on the Lower Yard. Residents, community members, administration, and victim rights organizations gathered to discuss the effect of crime on lives. Resident Sammie Nichols said the event gave him the opportunity to hear from the voices of survivors and to … [Read More...]
SQ writers’ workshop for veterans
Military veterans at San Quentin reflected on moments of personal tragedy, their time in the military, and life after service. They did so in writing. The War Horse, an online publication focused on veterans’ issues, brought its writing seminar to San Quentin with the support of the nonprofit Pollen Initiative. “There’s not enough military … [Read More...]
San Quentin breaks ground, begins building historic learning center
Months after the announcement of a new learning center and multiplex replacing Building 38, San Quentin Rehabilitation Center administration and construction team projected to commence with breaking ground in late May. After gutting and completion of the asbestos abatement of the former furniture factory building, demolition of Building 38 … [Read More...]
Over 100 residents recognized for accomplishments
Resident-led rehabilitation groups lead to 30% drop in disciplinary reports The mood in the Education Complex’s B-Building appeared positively giddy. Residents mingled with officers. The San Quentin Color Guard practiced their ceremonial entrance. A captain nodded vigorously as a new arrival explained to her his rehabilitation goals. A … [Read More...]
Warrior basketball team promotes anger management through self-help group
An incarcerated basketball coach and his undefeated team promote a self-help group. Resident Jeremiah “JB” Brown, head coach of the San Quentin Warriors, created the team “94 Feet” to cultivate a positive reputation for an identically named anger management and conflict-resolution self-help group that he has created. “These players on 94 Feet … [Read More...]
Mount Tamalpais College offers advanced assessment test for English and Math
MTC students who pass newly offered assessment tests may now bypass prerequisites The Education Complex saw much bustling activity as Mount Tamalpais College held a town hall-style meeting May 3 to kick off its summer semester. More than 60 San Quentin residents sat in a circle in room B-5, listening to MTC administration announcing new … [Read More...]
Newly paroled residents face challenges and obstacles in reentry
People who leave prison face challenges such as mental stability, drug use, and staying connected to family. Incarceration can have an impact on people who are returning citizens. People who are exposed to violence and judgmental factors while in prison, face uncertainty and self-seclusion upon release, according to BusinessNH Magazine. As a … [Read More...]
Prison Fellowship connects residents with spirituality at San Quentin
The Prison Fellowship Academy held its second annual graduation in San Quentin’s Protestant Chapel. PFA is a Christian-based rehabilitation program that helps incarcerated people connect with spirituality. On May 18 family and friends of the incarcerated graduates filled SQ’s Protestant Chapel. Approximately 50 incarcerated graduates … [Read More...]
Meet SQ Journalism Guild instructor Lisa Armstrong
A college professor reaches out to incarcerated people, helping former and current imprisoned people tell their story. Lisa Armstrong is a professor at the University of California at Berkeley Graduate School of Journalism and previously a professor at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism. She studied architecture and urban … [Read More...]
First Concrete Rose Truck Driver Training graduation
The San Quentin Rehabilitation Center raised the bar for the California Model another notch in May with a first-ever graduation for more than two-dozen residents who completed the Concrete Rose truck driver training. The graduates each worked 192 hours during the 32-week training course, and the culmination of their work received recognition by … [Read More...]
Celebrando los logros y las perdidas
Los Residentes de San Quentin Celebran el día del padre Para muchos residentes en el Centro de Rehabilitación de San Quentin, el día del padre es como cualquier otro día. Para otros es un día de muchos recuerdos – buenos y malos. En America Latina y en otras partes del mundo, variá en como es celebrado el día del padre. En algunos … [Read More...]
Happy Father’s Day
Father’s Day offers an opportunity for the incarcerated to reflect on gender, culture, and the struggles of parenting behind bars. The holiday originated in 1909 when Sonora Smart Dodd of Spokane, Washington, was motivated by Anna Jarvis’ idea of Mother’s Day, according to the Old Farmer’s Almanac of 2024. Dodd’s father, William … [Read More...]
Prison residents debate incarceration cycle in UK
In Great Britain, UK, His Majesty’s Prison collaborated with a church to create a new rehabilitative initiative that allows incarcerated male and female residents to debate, according to BVI News.com. The debate teams faced off at the first coed debate competition. Those in attendance have to witness incarcerated residents discuss essential … [Read More...]
Marin County struggles with police recruitment
High cost of living in the county make it difficult to hire, retain law enforcement personnel Marin County law enforcement faces difficulties in hiring, in part because of high cost of living and a video of a violent arrest. Agencies with similar or higher salaries and long commutes make it difficult to retain and recruit new officers, … [Read More...]
SQ’s Mental Health teaches financial literacy course
The mental health programs at San Quentin give the incarcerated quality resources to become better people. The CDCR’s Mental Health Services Delivery System provides programs such as Correctional Clinician Case Management System (CCCMS), according California Code of Regulations Title 15. A particular Mental Health program made available … [Read More...]
Local band The Lemon Hammer performs classics for residents in Chapel A
There was dancing in the aisles and the playing of air drums during the foot-stomping and heart-pounding rock concert in San Quentin’s Chapel A on Saturday evening, March 16. “Rock and Roll is here to stay,” sang Danny and the Juniors back in 1958. They were right, as experienced by a demure yet enthusiastic crowd that enjoyed the variety … [Read More...]
SQ Warriors defeat Town Boogie in season opener
The basketball rivalry between the San Quentin Warriors and Town Boogie continued on May 4th. The teams battled in front of a full house in spite of the rain as Town Boogie’s captain, Jeffery “Free” Gary, and his team arrived from outside to fellowship with the Warriors. As the game started Town Boogie scored first. The … [Read More...]
Dr. Anderson discusses suicide prevention and training programs
San Quentin Rehabilitation Center’s mental health staff are recognized during Nurses Appreciation Week for their continued commitment caring for residents. Dr. E. Anderson, Suicide Prevention and Training Cooridnator, arrived at San Quentin in 2021 after her role as a mental health clinician at the California Health Care Facility at … [Read More...]
Jewish community celebrates Passover with stories of gratitude and appreciation
Editors Note: In the Jewish religion, the spelling of the word for the Almighty uses a dash instead of the vowel: G–d. The annual Jewish festivity came alive as Rabbi Paul Shleffar welcomed the attendees from both the outside and the inside community to celebrate Jewish freedom with a traditional Seder. Rabbi Shleffar talked about the meaning … [Read More...]
Artist Jose ‘J.D.’ Diaz draws with photo realism skill
Incarcerated artist Jose “J. D.” Diaz started taking drawing seriously about three years ago. When he first started sketching, he did not know in which direction he wanted to go. He recently started painting. According to Diaz, his art resembles life itself. Much like a working on canvas or sketching, it captures “the impermanence aspiring … [Read More...]
Origami genius, resident Daniel Le increases creativity, enhances mental wellness
Resident artist discusses how the Japanese art form translates to rehabilitation For Daniel Le, origami started as a curiosity. Having watched origami artists on YouTube videos inspired him to learn more about the art form. Eventually, Le created a signature piece of origami art — fireworks. “When I am doing origami I am thinking on … [Read More...]
Criminal and Gang Members Anonymous holds graduation for 29 residents
Criminal and Gang Members Anonymous held their graduation ceremony to honor participant’s dedication towards rehabilitation by pursuing a life of amends and atonement for the crimes they’ve committed. Graduates and guests descended to the Garden Chapel for the 29 graduates whom shared their experiences and appreciation towards their … [Read More...]
Opening day for SQ softball
The San Quentin Hardtimers’ opening game took on Lost Dreams Awaken. As the team came to the Lower Yard, the Hardtimers warmed up for the game. Lost Dreams Awaken, a coed team of softballers, plays in the North Bay Softball League. It is the second season that LDA promoted sobriety through sports while celebrating, laughter, and easy-going … [Read More...]
San Quentin’s resident all-star softball team defeats staff 11-10
San Quentin correctional officers accepted a challenge from members of the incarcerated softball team. The game was part of the prison’s effort to elevate relationships between administration, correctional officers, staff, and incarcerated residents—a priority of the Reimagining San Quentin report, which is part of Governor Newsom’s California … [Read More...]
Soccer opener delivers miraculous goal
The SQ Earthquakes kicked off the first game of the soccer season against the Bay Area team known as the Outsiders. The Outsiders have played at SQ since 2017 and they currently play around the Bay Area while fitting SQ into their schedule this past April. Opening Day started intensely as SQ grabbed the first possession. The … [Read More...]
Centinela holds homerun derby competition
Mastery Prison Ministry volunteers, prison coaches offered a homerun derby. On March 20, Centinela State Prison’s Physical Education Department and Mastery Prison Ministry offered a Home Run Derby on A, B, and D Facilities. The event provided incarcerated persons an opportunity to participate in an environment more closely resembling those in … [Read More...]
SQ Giants beat LA LOVE 4-3 at season opener: “SQ baseball is the reward you get”
The LA LOVE, a baseball team sponsored by actor Casey Affleck, came in to play and celebrate the San Quentin Giants’ 121st season opener April 20. One hundred and twenty years ago San Quentin established what is now the oldest continuous program in the institution: the San Quentin baseball program. At one time, SQ baseball was allowed to … [Read More...]
Resident artist resentenced and released under 1172.1(a)
The process took months. It required dozens of telephone calls to lawyers. It required a lot of legal mail, both sent and received. It also required much hope. In the end, the effort – and the hope – paid off. Former San Quentin resident Luciano Borjas said he received a resentencing under 1172.1(a). Just prior to his departure from San Quentin, … [Read More...]
Humans of San Quentin holds recognition ceremony
Humans of San Quentin hosted nearly 300 residents and guests by acknowledging the stories, insights, and beliefs that residents expressed on HofSQ digital platforms. The inaugural ceremony in May recognized the contributions of the incarcerated voices inside San Quentin with certificates, cake, pizza, and a preview of the Humans of San Quentin … [Read More...]
Why we celebrate Nurses Appreciation Week
Nurses Appreciation Week was acknowledged in San Quentin, honoring the nurses in a weeklong celebration, which began on May 6 and ended on May 12, in recognition of the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the iconic founder of the nursing profession. “We are rewarded with ‘goodies’ [depending on each department] and given ‘coodles’ for our … [Read More...]
God Behind Bars delivers spiritual enlightenment in the Garden Chapel
The Spirit of the Lord was on full display at the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. Fresh Life Church minister Levi Lusko, Christian music artist Mack Brock, and “The Voice” finalist Bodie Cruz came in to fellowship with residents, guests, and administrators. Hundreds descended upon Chapel B midway through the 50-day Easter season to hear God’s … [Read More...]
Nursing founder honored for her contributions to humanity
Since 1965, International Nurses Day has been celebrated on Florence Nightingale's birthday, May 12. Born in 1820, in Florence, Italy, Nightingale is celebrated as the founder of modern nursing. Nightingale's lasting contribution set an example of compassion, commitment to patient care, diligent and thoughtful hospital administration, … [Read More...]
San Quentin residents attend two-day conference in Armor of God service
San Quentin’s Reformed Services hosted a two-day conference on a critical and exegetical study of the Armor of God, from the book of Ephesians in the Christian Bible. Resident Dave Richard and Reformed Services Pastor Aldo Yannon hoped to inspire residents to answer a call to put on the Armor of God. A few outside guests and two residents … [Read More...]
Proposition 47 faces political pushback after ten years of enactment
Legislation approved by California voters to reduce jail time for low-level crimes, faces of political roll back. Proposition 47 was passes by in 2014. Ten years later there political support is surging to eliminate the law. Republicans have criticized the law from its beginning, and have repeatedly attempted to overturn it. They insist … [Read More...]
Creating awareness together through identity workshop
A unique Shakespearean collaborative workshop took place inside SQRC’s ARC building on May 19, 2024, involving three distinctive SQRC groups, Shakespeare, The Beat Within, Kid CAT, and students from Urban School of San Francisco. The morning began with confusion and mixed emotions from all group participants mentioned above, minus the high … [Read More...]
Ray Ochoa finds new purpose in life through his quality art
Art begins with creation through imagination and, for Ray Ochoa, through his motivation to make a living. Ochoa’s art began with a sponsor who once had worked as an artist and now owns art galleries in San Francisco and Hawaii. That sponsor was the first to encourage him to create art. “I learned to draw by looking over the shoulders of … [Read More...]
Hunger pains encouraged Moises Ramos to set sail for artistic future
Driven by hunger, the need for means to survive inside a prison walls gave life to innovation and creativity displayed in hidden gems of art. In 2015, California sent Moises Ramos and many other prisoners to Arizona because of overcrowding in CDCR facilities. He had left his family and loved ones and did not have the means even to purchase … [Read More...]
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR – May 2024
Looking forward to SQ News Dear SQNews, My name is Joseph Garcia Guzman III. I am requesting a copy of San Quentin News. Unfortunately, I’m in AD-SEG serving a RHU term. All I can say is prison politics. I don’t even gang bang, I am a US Army Veteran, and someone got caught up in the funk. I’m a G.P. inmate but I should of never ended up on … [Read More...]
Book Review: A Reason to Breathe
“A Reason to Breathe” is a deeply moving and inspiring memoir by Halim A. Flowers. This book is a story of resilience, hope, and the human spirit’s capacity to overcome unimaginable adversity. Flowers writes the narrative of his life with vulnerability and lyricism, navigating the complexities of identity, and trauma, and redemption. In this … [Read More...]
SQ Giants’ Coach Will reveals his secrets to coaching prison baseball teams
Having watched coaching greats like Billy Martin, Walter Alston, Bruce Bochy, and Frank Robinson, baseball enthusiasts can’t help but compare the leadership of Richard “Coach Will” Williams to a bevy of successful managers. What makes this man create diamonds out of incarcerated residents? What makes this man lead to a zero percent recidivism rate … [Read More...]
SQ’s Daytona at the Lower Yard: Officers, residents race remote-controlled cars
Residents, staff, and administration of SQRC got together on a warm March morning to continue bridging the gap of rehabilitation as the morning turned into an exciting day for some good, old fashioned childhood remote control car enthusiasts. Named the First Annual SQRC Car Race, the event was organized by Correctional Officer S. Lopez. “We … [Read More...]
Kings’ new uniforms look good, too bad game didn’t
On March 25, the San Quentin Kings donned new "unis" as they opened their season playing SQRC's archrival team Town Boogie. The jerseys presented to each player on their chair would be the last gift the King’s received all day. Town Boogie led by Geoffrey “Free” Gary destroyed the San Quentin Warriors during their opener the (day/week) before, … [Read More...]
Poor shooting performance leads to opener loss
On March 23rd, the SQ Warriors began their season with an opening day game against their outside arch-rival, Town Boogie. The official start of the season was scheduled for April 27th, but Town Boogie didn’t want to wait and decided to schedule games so they could come down the hill ready to take on some new faces and old faces of the … [Read More...]
Physical Fitness Training event draws participation from SQ Warden
In March, the California Model moved forward as administration, staff and residents participated in an intense, hour-long workout in the gymnasium at the San Quentin Sports Complex. SQRC’s Physical Fitness Training has started a new program and participation on Saturday and Tuesday training class has grown to include three correctional staff … [Read More...]
Colombia Propone Legalizar las Drogas
Nuevos metodos para combatir las drogas ilegales La Guerra se está perdiendo en contra el consume de drogas en las Américas. Los países de latino américa consideran legalizar las drogas para luchar en contra la violencia, el trafico transnacional, homicidios y adicciones informa Raúl Zepeda Gil del The Conversation. La fuerza militar no … [Read More...]
Defensores Públicos de SF ofrecen ideas sobre la libertad Colombia Propone
Abogados defensores públicos de San Francisco visitaron la sala de periodismo de SQNews en el Centro de Rehabilitación de San Quentin (CRSQ). Los residentes compartieron sobre el impacto del sistema actual de la Audiencia de Libertad Condicional (conocido en inglés como Board of Prison Hearings o ‘BPH’). Se consideró la disponibilidad real de … [Read More...]
Cuarenta-cuatro residentes de CRSQ se graduaron en diseño grafico y audio en computadoras
La autoridad industrial de California, conocido como CALPIA en ingles celebrar los nuevos logros de los residentes que a lo largo de 20 meses dedicaron su tiempo y esfuerzos en el aprendizaje de diseño gráfico y audio. El impacto social que logro este programa llamar la atención de algunos medios como KQED, KCBS, KRON y KTVU. De acuerdo a … [Read More...]
El dia de las madres es celebrado 365 dias del año
Los Hombres latinos de el Centro de Rehabilitación de San Quentin Conmemoran el Día de las madres. Para mucho prisioneros el amor de una madre es la antorcha que les da esperanza en sus vidas. Conforme al difunto reverendo Dr. Myles Munroe, estadísticas han demostrado que 95 por ciento de las personas encarceladas en EE.UU. fueron criados … [Read More...]
Feliz dia de las Madres
“A mi madre que ya paso: perdóname por los sufrimientos que te hice pasar. Gracias por los buenos consejos que nunca agarre”, — Efrain Rojas “Mamá en español, Umi en árabe, Ima en hebreo, Éomma en coreano, Uma en zulu, Mom en inglés y Mamma en italiano. En el idioma que sea, estoy seguro que esta es o ha sido la palabra más importante en la … [Read More...]
FACTS AND STATISTICS: Measuring recidivism countrywide becomes daunting task with varying data
The meaning of statistics can vary greatly according to their definition. A multiplicity of meanings applies to the metrics of recidivism, too, and such interpretations have vast implications on the lives of incarcerated persons, for they reflect on the success or failure not only of their rehabilitation but also on the justice system as a whole. … [Read More...]
Kairos 57 honors volunteers in celebration of Living Water
Kairos celebrated its 35th year at San Quentin with Kairos 57, a celebration of Christ, called Living Water. John, Chapter 7 verse 38 says, “Whoever believes in me, as Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.’” At Kairos #57, water from Christ’s followers flowed with grace and mercy. Kairos San Quentin … [Read More...]
Incarcerated barbers give haircuts to correctional officers
Residents and correctional staff at the San Quentin Rehabilitation Center are taking steps to break out of their comfort zones and breach long-standing systemic barriers with barber shop talk, laughter, and normalization to the prison environment. Dozens of residents watched from the tiers in SQ’s Alpine housing unit as correctional officers … [Read More...]
SF Salvation Army runs recovery program
The Salvation Army runs a recovery program in San Francisco’s Mission District at the Joseph McFee Center. “The Way Out Program” houses at least 50 men living in the facility, according to KTVU Fox News 2. Participants can live in the treatment center up to two years. The “goal is to get people off the streets, into treatment where they can … [Read More...]
Wisdom for Healthy Re-entry from Community Health Workers
Transitions Clinic Network (TCN) is a network of community health clinics that serve returning community members. TCN clinics are led by Community Health Workers (CHWs) with lived experience of incarceration who support people with their health care and reentry. TCN hosts a monthly Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) column to empower individuals to … [Read More...]
Christian Science practitionerMark McCurties visits The Q to discuss God’s love, healing
San Quentin Rehabilitation Center hosted Christian Science practitioner Mark McCurties from Ann Arbor, Michigan, to speak with residents and guests about understanding how God’s unconditional love can propel meaningful change in the world. McCurties travels worldwide to instruct on Jesus Christ’ life, his healing works, and how everyone has … [Read More...]
SQ church forgoes their yearly banquet to support unhoused
San Quentin’s Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, in lieu of a food banquet for Easter on Palm Sunday, held an “un-banquet,” where residents donated food items and toiletries. The donations collected were given to the Missionaries of Charity Sisters who live in Richmond. The Sisters were able to give these gifts to people who are struggling … [Read More...]
SB731 helps returned citizens find sense of normalcy with expungements, record sealing
SB 731, in effect since 2023, gives Californians the safety valve of expungement, which state law calls “records relief,” said an article by Jeanne Kuang in CALmatters. Although it excludes sex offenders, it regards most felony convictions eligible for records clearance, even convictions for violent crimes. To apply, returned citizens only need … [Read More...]
Incarcerated women residents uses vocational training from prison to obtain jobs
Three incarcerated women who graduated an apprenticeship program while serving time found jobs once released, according to an article in The Seattle Times. Brittany Wright, 30, successfully completed Trades Related Apprenticeship Coaching (TRAC), a vocational training program that helped her develop job-searching skills, including networking. … [Read More...]
Fiscal watchdog tells California to close five more prisonsin report to legislature
California should close five more prisons to give taxpayers a potential $1 billion in annual savings, said the Legislature’s fiscal advisor, as reported by Bob Egelko of the San Francisco Chronicle. The closures would not compromise public safety, the recommendation said. According to the article, a report to legislators by the nonpartisan … [Read More...]
SQ closes historic PIA mattress factory as part of changes
Mixed emotions arose as Prison Industry Authority’s (PIA) Mattress factory closes shop in San Quentin. The closure is part of the new Rehabilitation Center’s move toward a technological and educational campus. The mattress factory has been in San Quentin since moving locations in the mid-eighties and is moving again, this time to Mule Creek … [Read More...]
Kid CAT Juvenile Lifer Support Group
The Kid CAT Juvenile Lifer Support Group (JLSG) at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center began in 2013. The program was created from Michael Tyler’s vision of providing safe space for juvenile offenders to share their life stories without the fear of being judged, or having their vulnerability used against them in a negative fashion. JLSG was created … [Read More...]
SQ residents bridge the generational gap through social justice and Hip-Hop
San Quentin residents made efforts to bridge the generational gap between young and elder offenders, with a series of conversations that took place on Fridays earlier this year. The discussion was the first attempt to bring a perspective of understanding between young and older people of different eras. The theme of these discussions is … [Read More...]
SQ residents share inspiration
Many San Quentin residents may draw inspiration from role models to stay positive so to achieve their rehabilitation goals. What would help them find a sense of belonging? Celebration of one’s culture would go a long way. During Asian-American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Month in May, San Quentin residents recognize and celebrate … [Read More...]
ROOTS program cultivates cultural healing across prison walls
Incarcerated and free members of the Bay Area Asian community met to build a shared vision of comprehensive community safety and healing. The two dozen outside guests included elders and representatives from organizations connected with Oakland Chinatown. With the goal of making their neighborhoods safer, they came into prison for open … [Read More...]
Research finds little hope for returned citizens searching for love with online dating sites
Josh Miller, 27, considers himself “a laid-back person who enjoys meeting new people,” his online dating profile said. “Spending time with my family and friends is very important to me, especially since I missed so many years with them while I was in prison,” the profile continued. Then Miller wrote, “I always try to remain positive and be in a … [Read More...]
SQ residents commemorate departed with third annual Mourning Our Losses ceremony
San Quentin held its third annual celebration of life, circumstance, brotherhood, and legacy. In the Mourning Our Losses event, residents and staff took turns celebrating the lives of persons lost within the San Quentin community. Spoken word and musical and theatrical performances depicted human connections and experiences. “We witnessed their … [Read More...]
SQ residents show their commitment to 64 days of nonviolence
Residents in San Quentin embarked on a 66-day journey to nonviolence by focusing on 66 principles of nonviolent choices and actions. The concept originated with the grassroots campaign by the Association for Global New Thought. Recognized internationally, the season of nonviolence commemorates the period of 64 days between the anniversaries of … [Read More...]
SQ 2024 Guild graduation ceremony, staff and advisors recognition
The fifth annual San Quentin News Journalism Guild Graduation took place in the Garden Chapel on March 15. Forty graduates from the 2024 class and dedicated volunteers received acknowledgment for their commitment and hard work as San Quentin News anticipated to continue its growth. The day started with a mingling of attendees and the graduates. … [Read More...]
NEWS BRIEFS – May 2024
1. Utah — (The Hill) Transgender women in a Utah facility were discriminated against according to a complaint filed by the The Department of Justice. The lawsuit claimed the women were denied access to healthcare services and medical treatment for gender dysphoria. The medical condition is protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act … [Read More...]
Condemned Row LGBTQIA+ residents hold nation’s first annual interfaith banquet
Earlier this year, San Quentin’s The Sound Mind Company group held the nation’s first Annual Interfaith Banquet for its Condemned Row LGBTQIA+ Residents and Straight Allies Group. The program, written in 1999 by condemned resident Floyd Smith, suffered from years of delays and after Covid, the group finally returned. The banquet took place … [Read More...]
Prison art exhibit gains traction
Prison art exhibitions bring public awareness to incarcerated people’s experiences and are truly worth more than a thousand words, according to The Marshall Project. One art exhibition included an “Federal Prison Inmate Activity Book” that resembled a child’s activity book. The book included word puzzles using terms like “larceny” and … [Read More...]
North Block residents start in-block self-help groups
In the midst of reimaging San Quentin, self-help groups are made available in North, South, and West Block housing units, due to long waiting lists. According to the Reimagine report dated January 2024, SQ is highly recognized for its current rehabilitation programs, but there is a need for space and shorter wait lists. In NB, second watch … [Read More...]
Death Row author overcame dyslexia, published ten books
Living on California’s Condemn Row also known as Death Row and being lockedup 24 to 20 hours a day in a tiny cell, condemn resident Albert “Ru-Al” Jones overcame three different types of dyslexia to self-publish 10 books in one of San Quentin’s darkest places. Jones, 59, said he has been locked up for 30 years with 27 years on the “Row” and 24 … [Read More...]
Death Row transfers: Residents in SQ’s Death Row are transferred according to governor’s plan
CDCR is in the process of phasing out its Death Row units at San Quentin and the Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF). San Quentin’s Condemned Row residents are housed in the rehabilitation center’s East Block. These residents are locked up in a 4-by-10- foot cell for 20 to 24 hours a day and are handcuffed every time they came out of their … [Read More...]
ABE III teacher King talks about his journey to San Quentin
When the head of a prison asked him casually at a mutual friend’s birthday party to consider teaching at his carceral institution, he replied, “What? You have a school at San Quentin?” That sparked the conversation between then-Acting Warden Oak Smith and B. King, who would become a new Adult Basic Education teacher at SQRC’s Robert E. Burton Adult … [Read More...]
SQTV’s Brian Asey reunites with his family
Brian Asey, 57, paroled from San Quentin Rehabilitation Center in March, after serving 26 years in prison. Originally sentenced to 85 years to life under California’s Three Strikes Law, his sojourn took him to prisons in Tracy, Centinela, Solano, and Soledad. Under Assembly Bill 109, “Realignment,” Asey arrived at San Quentin December 15, 2011. … [Read More...]
Governor Newsom and Prince of Norway visit the Q
Rumors of a high-level visit had haunted San Quentin all spring. Who would come? The governor? Perhaps the Prince of Norway? No one knew for sure until Tuesday, April 16. On that cool and sunny morning, an entourage of some 30 visitors crowded into the newsroom of the San Quentin News. Governor Gavin Newsom, with his towering height appeared … [Read More...]
Canine Companion programholds first graduation
The first-ever puppy graduation at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center celebrated four resident handlers and the puppies Artemis and Wendel, whose hard-to-miss presence the residents, correctional staff, and administration noticed. The handlers said the nation- al nonprofit dog program Canine Companions empowered them in a meaningful and … [Read More...]
Ella Baker Center makes Spanish presentation at San Quentin
Ella Baker Center for Human Rights discussed the Racial Justice Act (La Ley de Justicia Racial) with over 150 non-English-speaking, Spanish language residents at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. “Wow there is a lot of people in here, for real this is a good surprise, good morning everyone!” exclaimed in Spanish, Simelia Rogers, EBC program … [Read More...]
I put that on my mama
Listening to Grammy award winning Victoria Monet’s new classic, I Put That on my Momma — “On my momma, on my hood, I lookfly, l look good…” Monet sung. I ponder how the prison system is “thirst trapping” [using for attention] precious incarcerated moms. When moms get to prison, we are promised rehabilitation, but prison misuses our natural … [Read More...]
San Quentin residents comment on how relationships with their mother are unlike any other
Mother’s Day should be acknowledged every day of the year. Residents of San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC) are grateful to have their mothers as part of their lives. Even in prison, our mothers have helped us stay strong and connected with family values. According to the late author and Rev. Dr. Myles Munroe, 95% of incarcerated … [Read More...]
CCWF residents offer support, motivation for new arrivals
How do you motivate people who come to prison with lengthy sentences to do well while they are incarcerated? That was a question that members of the Beyond Incarceration Program Inmate Leisure Time Activity Group posed to themselves when discussing some of the issues occurring amongst the population of Central California Women’s Facility. In … [Read More...]
Residents show off their talents at CCWF’s ‘Got Talent’ show
The Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) held its third annual “CCWF’s Got Talent” show. Anyone wishing to perform had to first audition on their facility yard and for the facility captain. The top five acts advanced to perform for the institution’s administration. Once all the participants were chosen the talent show was held in late … [Read More...]
Pollen Initiative opens Media Center at CCWF
The first ever Media Center was opened in the California Correctional Women’s Facility. Approximately 24 incarcerated persons, outside guests, and administration filled the local visiting area for the historical moment. The March event highlighted the long awaited chance for the CCWF residents to have the platform and equipment to speak out in … [Read More...]
Residents support St. Jude’s Children Hospital with food sale
Looking to serve its residents and support kids, San Quentin hosted the second annual food truck event on its Lower Yard on November 16. This time around, $33, 644.70 was raised, of which 32% of the proceeds will be donated to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and Marin Foster Care. As the residents walked down to the Lower Yard, most … [Read More...]
Transitions Clinic Network staff visit SQNews
Members of the SQNews sat down with Transitions Clinic Network staff to discuss incarceration, health, and reentry resources for people returning to society. Bethany Divakaran is a program manager for TCN, overseeing the Reentry Health Care Hub. She noted the importance of having these meetings with those incarcerated so that people being … [Read More...]
NEWS BRIEFS – January 2024
1. California — (Los Angeles Daily News) An editorial opined that most of the 6,000 Angelenos incarcerated in L.A. county jails do not pose a risk to public safety but simply cannot afford bail. Despite changes to the county’s bail practice, the editors believe that law enforcement and city officials stoked fear that without cash bail, “our … [Read More...]
Q&A session with the 49ers
The 49ers answered questions from the incarcerated about the prison system and how it impacts people while sharing personal stories on the day when they contributed gifts to the SQ residents. Team owner Jed York was represented by his twin daughters, M. York and G. York, in honor of their deceased brother Tony York, who started bringing team … [Read More...]
Salt and Pepper shakin’ up on the court
Known as “Salt and Pepper,” the number one and two guards of the San Quentin Warriors, Mason “White Chocolate” Ryan and Keshawn “Steez” Strickland are arguably the best pair on the team. However, the duo are leading by example, showing their teammates and the prison population how to gel cohesively on and off the court. They have done so through … [Read More...]
Leading the charge on reimagining San Quentin
To help put into effect Gov. Gavin Newsom’s new reimagined concept for San Quentin, the prison’s top administrators appointed the best leader for the task of retraining a core group of officers — an essential component to making relationships between staff and the residents work. “The goal is to get [residents] with the most problems to … [Read More...]
San Francisco 49ers inspire change within San Quentin during annual visit
Thanks to a sizable donation made to San Quentin by the 49ers, incarcerated people at SQ experienced the holiday season’s warmth with gifts wrapped for their kids and families, while celebrating with part of the team. The twin daughters of team owner Jed York, Chaplain Earl Smith, and key players of the 49ers were present in the SQ … [Read More...]
Editorial: New year brings hope, commitment, change
First, let me wish you all a prosperous new year. It is hard for me to wish you all a Happy New Year, because there is nothing happy about being in prison. Prison can be a place of self-refection, a place you can center yourself to find peace and hopefully that would lead us to redemption, but a happy place I think not. As we enter a new … [Read More...]
Nonprofit offers coding class for incarcerated in attempt to lower recidivism rates
A non-profit organization helps incarcerated people learn coding, giving them a better chance at employment after they are released. Persevere, a Tennessee-based business, has their coding program in four prisons, in the state of Arizona. The organization works with incarcerated people in four Arizona facilities, teaching computer coding help … [Read More...]
Juvenile hall still not shut down despite vote
San Francisco has abandoned its commitment to shutter its juvenile hall, where young people remain incarcerated four years after county supervisors voted to shut it down, according to the San Francisco Chronicle. In 2019, Supervisor Hilary Ronen led the charge to end incarceration of underage defendants. “We’re done with jailing kids,” she … [Read More...]
Documentary shines light on two-strikes law
A documentary depicts the use of Florida’s two-strike law, sending those who are convicted for a repeat offense, to life in prison. Frontline’s documentary program sheds light on the Florida two strikes law, called “Prison Release Reoffender law,” with some of the strictest sentences repeat felony offenders, according to Frontline. In the … [Read More...]
Formerly incarcerated who received the right to vote largely failed to use it
Though millions of formerly incarcerated persons have regained their right to vote, in at least four states, they largely failed to register and go to the polls. Reasons for self-disenfranchisement range from simple unawareness — no one told them that they now have the right to vote — to disbelief, because of the long-standing tradition that … [Read More...]
Residents almost ‘cooked alive’ in cells as climate change creates extreme temperatures across U.S.
Beef, pork, veal, and lamb require cooking at a minimum of 145°F, a temperature based on the 2017 FDA Food Code and displayed on a chart at statefoodsafety.com. Incarcerated persons at a state penitentiary in Parchman, Mississippi, almost cooked their bodies as a 145°F indoor temperature turned their cells turned into ovens in 2022, an … [Read More...]
UC Berkeley students leave their mark on SQNews journalism
Some visitors come to San Quentin to satisfy their curiosity, some come because they want to contribute to social justice, and some come because they feel inspired by hard work that goes into the production of a newspaper. Every Sunday afternoon, the newsroom of the San Quentin News hosts a cadre of students from the University of California, … [Read More...]
A dance to the music of time:
A 1976 novel by Anthony Powell Anyone who has ever endured a goofy oaf, a bungler, a clod, a complete bonehead whose sudden and entirely unexpected appearance spoiled the moment — perhaps a cocktail party, a romantic date, a wedding, even a funeral — would know Kenneth Widmerpool. The prototypical Widmerpool exists only on the pages of the … [Read More...]
Preventive efforts found to lower crime rates
An 18-month-long law enforcement collaboration with community programs resulted in a drop in serious and violent crime rates. Sacramento Police Chief Kathy Lester declared a new approach to violent crime prevention by collaborating with community groups, according to a story by Rosalio Ahumada in Sacto 911. Following this announcement, the … [Read More...]
Death Row minister believes in becoming a better friend while serving the condemned
Death Row minister Chitoka Webb finds comfort and ease in life experiences, through religious leadership, and health. Webb, 48, is a Presbyterian minister and chaplain intern who volunteers on California’s Death Row. She frequently has thoughts about life and death in her capacity as non-judgmental minister, according to the Marin Independent … [Read More...]
‘Carveouts’ excluded from justice reform
Large categories of incarcerated people are being excluded from criminal justice reforms because of their convictions of specified crimes, the Prison Policy Initiative reports. Those who are convicted for serious, violent, and certain drug-related offenses face what is termed carveouts from reforms, the seven-page report states. Reformist … [Read More...]
Using monkhood as penance loses relevance
After a fire drill in Thailand had resulted in an accident that killed a student, four firefighters deemed responsible for the death attended the victim’s funeral with “shaved heads and dressed in saffron robes, kneeling on the ground with their palms pressed together,” said an article in TIME. In Thailand, the practice of buat na fai — … [Read More...]
California first in gender-affirming surgery
A San Quentin incarcerated trans-woman received gender-affirming surgery after California permitted gender affirmation surgery to incarcerated persons, a first in the nation. According to CalMatters, two groundbreaking policies had turned to law in the past seven years. First, in 2017, California set standards for granting gender-affirming … [Read More...]
Christian community honors Pastor Tom’s decade of service
The Christian community at San Quentin hosted a celebratory banquet for Pastor Tom Pham’s 10th anniversary of leading Bible studies. Food, fun, and frolicking festivities accompanied the event held in Chapel B on November 30. For the past decade, Pastor Tom has led a weekly non-denominational Bible study as well as services on Tuesday and … [Read More...]
Second chance at life
From 42 years on Death Row to SQ's Earned Living Unit A formerly condemned incarcerated individual is alive and thriving in San Quentin State Prison’s mainline population. After serving 42 years on death row, Marvin Walker, a.k.a. “Shaka,” is currently residing in one of SQ’s Earned Living Units. This specialized housing is reserved for … [Read More...]
Progressive prosecutors find themselves under fire across U.S.
What two characteristics do Andrew Warren, Larry Krasner, Monique Worrell, George Gascón, Joe Gonzales, Pamela Price, and Chesa Boudin have in common? They all belong to a new force of progressivism in criminal prosecution and they all have been in the crosshairs of conservative politicians eager to return their jurisdictions back to a lock-’em-up … [Read More...]
Death penalty cases and executions at record low
Capital punishment and the imposition of new condemned sentences hit a new low nationwide in 2023, according to the National Reporter. The Death Penalty Information Center reported a 20-year low that has criminal justice experts rethinking the effectiveness of the death sentence. “The data shows that most Americans have rejected the death … [Read More...]
Union boss backs California Model
CCPOA VP witnesses firsthand the benefits of Norway model In September, about a dozen members of the California Correctional Peace Officers Association visited prisons in Norway to observe the Norway model, reported the Los Angeles Times. The tour included California corrections officer Steve “Bull” Durham. He focused not on the demeanor of … [Read More...]
California, state officials found liable for deliberate indifference during 2020 Covid outbreak
The Ninth Circuit ruled California prison officials acted with “deliberate indifference,” by not taking sufficient precautions or countermeasures during the 2020 Covid outbreak, reported the Courthouse News Service. The decision allows the State and San Quentin State Prison officials to face liability for the Covid outbreak where 29 persons died … [Read More...]
Rabbi, Imam come together to host discussion on unity amid war
On October 28, Rabbi Shleffar and Imam Muhammad Fasih held an open campus discussion at San Quentin on war and death around the world. Thirty-five prison residents came together with the two religious leaders to share their concerns of the ongoing conflicts in Palestine and Ukraine, as well as the overall psyche of this nation. Rabbi Shleffar … [Read More...]
Woven rehabilitation: Michael Barker weaves his art into his life-long rehabilitation
Artist Michael Barker has infused his rehabilitative qualities into his art and has garnered a fan base that spans 30 years and four prisons. Barker innovatively bonds an assortment of paper to plastic by hand sewing the materials together to make strands that creates his masterpieces. His transformative artwork provides enjoyment and a … [Read More...]
Broken reentry system costs taxpayers billions
Probation and parole, as alternatives to a brutal penal system, fail American communities and cost taxpayers billions. According to the opinion of a former commissioner of the New York City Departments of Probation and Correction, new alternatives of probation and parole require consideration. “Our national system of supervised parole and … [Read More...]
‘Believe music heals’: Sound of music gives residents opportunity to share truth
San Quentin’s music community welcomed a new program that seeks to encourage and empower participants to sing their truths. Sponsored by musician and recording artist Essence Goldman, her non-profit organization “Believe Music Heals,” and Jewish chaplain Rabbi Paul Shleffar, 25 residents will put their lived experiences into song form. While … [Read More...]
Mount Tamalpais College builds trust with prison through town hall meeting
By Michael Callahan, Staff Writer and Bostyon Johnson, Managing Editor In November, San Quentin’s Mount Tamalpais College held two town hall-style meetings to strengthen their communication with correctional staff and incarcerated students. Never before at San Quentin had college students, staff, and CDCR administration all come together … [Read More...]
Residents discuss impact of Hip-Hop during roundtable
In October, nearly 50 San Quentin residents gathered to commemorate 50 years of Hip-Hop and to “chop it up” about when their love for rap had started. The symposium, held in Chapel B, brought out the raw and unapologetic truth, highlighting the impact of Hip-Hop on incarcerated persons at San Quentin, as well as the influence rap has on urban … [Read More...]
Nonprofit’s annual book fair returns to SQ Library
On December 1, San Quentin’s library hosted a Christmas book fair, which provided a vast selection of books for hundreds of residents to send to their loved ones. Friends of San Quentin Library, a nonprofit organization, had collaborated with Bay Area libraries to donate more than 800 books. “We are hoping to provide connection, to spread the … [Read More...]
Illinois first state to combat racial bias by removing cash bail
What factor should determine whether a defendant has to stay in jail? The defendant’s economic capacity to post bail or the threat the defendant poses to public safety? Statistically, Black and Latino men generally pay higher bail than White defendants do, so Illinois set a precedent as the first state in the country to abolish cash bail … [Read More...]