Banging For A Change

Disparity. Difference. Diversity. Disproportionate.  The themes of the week.

As a society we claim to celebrate diversity because differences amongst our population are allegedly welcomed.  Difference in the form of a disparity, however, is questioned more than applauded, especially when the disparity leads to a disproportionate impact on different groups.  All week we have considered that Blacks and Hispanics are incarcerated at a higher rate than Whites, that a higher percentage of men than women can be found in jails and prisons, and a higher percentage of poorer individuals than wealthier individuals end up in handcuffs.  We know that any person is capable of committing crime; however, what we see in prison most often are poor, Black and Hispanic men.

This week as we visited the Barry Bonds trial twice, we enjoyed the beauty and glory of the federal courthouse.  We were awed by the technology in the courtroom and the formality of the entire process.  However, just fifteen minutes away from the obvious financial investment by our government, today we traveled to United Playaz Clubhouse. Nestled in a neighborhood where crime is common and poverty is palatable, this non-profit organization was established in 1994 by Rudy, the executive director.  He learned first-hand the challenges of reentering society after any length of confinement to find employment, rejoin family and continue one's education.  We met with some of the staff members today and in a panel led by Vernell, we talked about the effectiveness of the criminal justice system.  Our conversation ultimately focused on the impact and importance of education on preventing involvement in criminal activity.  We talked about how former prisoners seek redemption as society seemingly discourages the ultimate possibility of rehabilitation.  After our talk, we enjoyed a delicious lunch of local Chinese fare and then received a tour of the Clubhouse where everyday elementary, middle and high school students go to complete homework and hang out.

After saying our goodbyes to the United Playaz and Vernell, we headed to Lombard Street, one of the most crookedest streets in America.  Scary! Not only is the zig-zag street on a steep hill, but we traveled down this road in our trusty Dodge minivan in the rain. OMG!  Luckily, we survived this venture, headed to Safeway for  a few groceries and then back to the hostel.

Our chefs of the night, Megan, Kramer and Kang prepared a delicious spaghetti dinner.  After chowing down, we went back to the room to work on our "True Colors" reflection.  This exercise forced us to identify characteristics unique to our personalities.  We talked honestly about how these traits can benefit others but also inhibit relationships.  We all agreed that such self-reflection is critical in our continued examination of the criminal justice system.

Tomorrow...Alcatraz!

~Christine