In the next two weeks, the Bureau of Prisons will probably notify me about where I should turn up to begin serving the three-month sentence. I feel some anticipation, but I don't feel dread or fear. In past experiences, I've encountered "a world of imprisoned beauty." I would like to listen to and learn from people confined inside the prison. The most onerous aspect of the U.S. criminal justice system is the length of sentences imposed on people, separating prisoners from children, family, community life and meaningful work. People form community behind the razor wire and the walls, befriending one another, helping each other, and easing some of the loneliness and isolation inherent in the mercilessly long sentences.
Yes. Anything you'd like to add before we wrap this up, Kathy?
Barbara Deming was a theorist and practitioner of nonviolence who was active in the civil rights movement, antiwar efforts, and many human rights struggles. She highlighted connections between issues of oppression. I think this is a good time to engage in what she termed "radical and uncompromising action" as we confront violence in all of its forms.
Thanks so much for talking with me, Kathy. I look forward to hearing about your time in prison if you choose to share it. You seem to have a knack for making lemonade. Good luck to you, during your stint behind bars and beyond!
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Kathy Kelly's recent piece:
Drones and Discrimination: Kick the Habit
my previous piece with a drone protester:
79-Year Old Grandfather Spends Thanksgiving in Prison For Drone Protest Die-In 12.17.14
(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
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