Greetings from Henok…

Incarcerated: 16 years
Housed: San Quentin State Prison

When I ask people if they would be interested in sharing a story with us their usual question is “Do I have to share or talk about my crime?” This moment oftentimes is the realization for them, that they are more than their crime, when I respond with “No we don’t want to hear about that, we’re interested in sharing whatever you feel comfortable sharing” In that moment our community members are reminded that they have a rich history prior to prison, and then they share whatever comes from their heart. For me it’s a blessing to see the light in their eyes grow slightly brighter. That is priceless, seeing someone regain & claim their humanity in a story and timed shared.