Inspiration:

The value of a reform-minded public lies not in inequities and human rights abuses, but in adopting a broader ethos - one that grants prisoners' basic human dignity, allows room for error, creates a safer work environment for prison staff, and creates less harm to the children and families of those convicted of crimes. The cycle of trauma ends with a reformed mind.

What role does art play in your life?

Art is the way I express my feelings that I am incapable of verbalizing. It is the way my mind is able to be free of the walls that contain me. It is my expression of freedom.

Justice statement:

Justice is defined as the act of giving to others what is their due, otherwise known as vengeance. In giving requital, harm must be done to a whole other group of people, thus creating an endless cycle of harm and trauma. In our society, this is considered fair. Fairness, though, is merely giving one side what they desire in a way the other side cannot argue, regardless of the harm it causes.

Responding to affliction with affliction is like fighting fire with fire. It is counterproductive, creating only more damage. The original detriment still exists, but now at a greater level with the addition of more. While offenses still need correction, what we are doing is not working. It's time to get off the cycle of damage and promote healing that benefits all sides, and on a greater scale, society as a whole.