It was during this time that I made a conscious decision to embark upon a journey of growth and self development. I enrolled in every therapeutic program that Green Haven Correctional Facility offered. There I pursued higher education, earning college credits and giving presentations on the importance of personal development.
Incarcerated: 26 years
Housed: Sing Sing Correctional Facility, Ossining, New York
When I entered the prison system in 1996, I met a group of older brothers who introduced me to ‘The Resurrection Study Group’ which focused on Afrocentric values, history and culture. When I began attending classes I was encouraged to engage in deep reflection and introspection. It was during this time that I made a conscious decision to embark upon a journey of growth and self development. I enrolled in every therapeutic program that Green Haven Correctional Facility offered. There I pursued higher education, earning college credits and giving presentations on the importance of personal development. I made a conscious decision to not be bitter but to be better, I told myself I would not serve time, but rather I would have time serve me. While earning my AA from Sullivan Community College and my B.S. from Mercy college I had the rare opportunity to present a Tedx Talk. I also continue to work with the nonprofit, Children of Promise (cpnyc.org) which caters to children of incarcerated parents. I am grateful for the elders who reached out to me early in my incarceration.
