Criminals and gang members took the initiative to find help by participating in Criminal Gangs Anonymous, one of San Quentin Rehabilitation Center’s six-month self-help recovery programs.
Eighty graduates of the CGA 12-step recovery program have succeeded in a program in which they rejected criminality, addiction, and gang beliefs that led to a destructive lifestyle.
Eric Macias, 45, a CGA facilitator, joined the program 11 years ago. As a former active gang member, the program helped him to find healing by disassociating himself from the gang and criminal lifestyle, he said, adding that he found purpose in helping others quit the same lifestyle he had lived for many years.
“I have the credibility. I offer hope in inspiring others that change is possible” said Macias.
Warden Chance Andes opened the event by recognizing the participants for overcoming gangs, one of the rehabilitation center’s biggest obstacles. “Be proud of yourself. This is a huge step committing six months to a 12-step program,” said Andes.
Program participants said the program focused on giving insight by making participants aware of the cycle of addiction — obsession, compulsion, and progression — that fueled their criminal lifestyle until their lives turned unmanageable.
Graduate Troy Varnado, 46, said he looked forward to returning as a facilitator for the next cohort. He said he understood criminality and gang activity as his biggest addiction, which led him to prison. Step 10 of the program had the most impact on him; he said he ran a personal inventory of himself that gave him the courage to admit his errors.
“I use this step to check in with myself throughout the day, to see where I could have done better” said Varnado.
The entire room silenced as the powerful voice of soulful singer Amos “Famous” Carter performed the hit song “Change” by Sam Cook. The lyrics sounded so emotional, they moved to tears some of the attendees.
After serving 28 years incarcerated at various California institutions, Michael Malik Russell Sr. returned to San Quentin to support his son, Michael “Luqman” Russell, 32, who graduated from CGA.
“It feels good to be someone who is formerly incarcerated and come back and support a group that I facilitated when I was inside,” said Russell Sr.
The younger Russell received parole three days prior to his graduation, ending a 30-year sentence by going to the Youth Offender Parole Board, which found him suitable. He said he knew the importance of having a father’s support while serving time.
“It’s a different feeling when your actual parent is the one supporting you” said Russell Jr.
Marcy Ginsburg, the program’s outside sponsor, discussed her gratitude for witnessing the hard work the students and facilitator put in to earn their certificates.
“I’m honored to be a part of this day,” said Ginsburg. “This program makes a difference in their lives and I’m seeing real change.”
