Sit in any prison classroom or recreation room in any prison in the country and ask yourself: How many writers are in the room. How many people are writing rhymes or poems? Carefully-folded pieces of paper come out of pockets – words written in tightly stylized hand-writing. And more often than not, writing is kept hidden in prisons - not out in the open. So today, we’re traveling not just to San Quentin but around the country to unpack this art form called prison poetry. We’ll visit the life of one legendary prison poet of the 1960s - who eventually helped lead a literary movement. We’ll visit the backwoods of Alabama to find poets who are currently incarcerated… and who can knock your socks off with just a few dozen words. And we’ll ask you, the listener, to write a little poetry too. www.prisonpoetryworkshop.org

Marquee: We Free Singers Be

Powerful words about the impact of incarceration on a Houston family and a plea to, "stop making our prisons and justice system a corporation."  Moving words about the impact of incarceration on a Houston family. Help support Texas Families at the Texas Family For Justice November 7th rally.

Do you have a story to share about the impact of incarceration on your family or community? Share your story and let the voices of those affected by the criminal justice system be heard by calling 1-877-410-4863 or uploading a video here! 

Powerful Words from Houston

Working Narratives is a southern arts and social justice organization. We believe that social movements thrive and win when they draw on participants’ personal experiences and local cultures. By telling stories—whether in the form of performance, radio, video, or other media—movements build power, envision new democratic possibilities, and change culture and policy. Our work is located at the intersection of arts, technology, and policy.

Marquee: We Free Singers Be

Narrative Arts

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