As far back as kindergarten I struggled with a learning disability.
Throughout my trial I was being talked over like I wasn’t even in the room. I was a literate defendant but I just sat there having no say, listening without fully understanding what was going on. Strangers including the prosecutor, the judge, my attorney, even some jurors made decisions over my life. From that moment on I made myself a promise: never again will I allow anyone to make decisions about me without me having a say. I was raised by a single parent, my mom. She did the best she could raising five children on her own. It’s been six years since her passing. What I wouldn’t give to hear her voice or hold her tight again. My mom was and still is my superhero. Growing up poor, I saw her work in fast food just to pay bills and feed us. Sometimes she went without eating so her kids could. This is a dedication to her memory. Bonnie F. Jackson, I love you, Momma. It is important that the public, especially victims of violence, know my deep shame and remorse for my actions. Words can never express the pain I caused, especially to my victim’s family. What was I thinking? The truth is, I wasn’t. As far back as kindergarten I struggled with a learning disability. I was placed in special education classes and dropped out, unable to read or write. Years later I was diagnosed with dyslexia and dyscalculia. This is my first adult offense. At 21 I was sentenced to life for party to a crime of first-degree homicide. I grew up in a rough neighborhood, involved with gangs and drugs by 13. Without positive role models I saw violence and even murder before the age of twelve. None of this excuses what I did. I take full responsibility. During my incarceration I earned my HSED, completed AODA Level 5, vocational custodial training, and anger management. I now mentor younger residents. Out of my desire to give back I started Project Give Back, a group focused on helping at-risk youth through education, awareness, and job training. Instead of filling prisons I hope to fulfill dreams. Never again should a mother stand over her child’s grave or visit them in prison.
