I am a huge Free Minds supporter but have never actually seen them in action during On the Same Page and it was pure magic. Tara, the executive director, started by talking about "Glen" the founding Free Minds member. Next were the guys sharing their stories mixed with poetry reading. The guys were so engaging and open that they had every student staring and listening in amazement. The students were encouraged to read along in their literary journals and I saw students who "don't read" with their eyes glued to the page. Students opened their minds and shared some deep thoughts on poetry and meaning as well. It was truly amazing to see the power of a positive male role model.
At the end of the session together, we shared a toast for change (from Freedom Writers Diary) where all of the students received a champagne glass with sparkling cider and made a toast saying what they would change about the world or themselves. After hearing the guys tell them how important school is, many students made a pledge to take school more seriously. The students have been buzzing about the visit ever since and continually ask my about my experience working at the jail and beg me to ask the guys back. It was an amazing experience. I hope to have them come to school for PD next year to talk about the school and prison pipeline.
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