“Until the lion writes his own story, the tale of the hunt will always glorify the hunter.” The Soy Autor writing process was developed in collaboration with young people at-risk of, victims of or perpetrators of violence in El Salvador. In 2017, this innovative program launched at Cook County Jail with young men awaiting trial for violent offenses. Through the process of drafting, revising, illustrating and publishing memoirs, the Authors’ Circle develops reflection, critical thinking, camaraderie, conflict resolution and positive self-projection.
In collaboration with:
Cook County Sheriff’s Office
Imagine That James Hopkins
In front of Pete’s Foods & Liquor, I caught a brief glance of these evil appariions, ghostly harbingers of death. In that moment I witnessed them wielding what could very well have been guns when all of the sudden, I watched the ames of ignited gunpowder leave their hands...
Now all I could do, all I could manage, was a smile. Unable to talk, I was forced to communicate with pen and paper. It hurted me in a profound way. No longer hearing my voice, I wished to simply say what I meant to say, but that luxury had been taken from me. Also, in a way it was damaging to my pride.
The outcome of this traumaac massacre lee me with a scar physically and mentally. Geeng through this ordeal, I owe to my family and friends. If it had not been thanks to their love and support, God knows whether or not I’d have had the will and strength to fight though and carry on. So many moments of self-refleccon, made me ask myself if this is how I wanted to live The experience had changed me in such a profound way. AAer all this, I ssll managed to graduate high school.
Even with all the ordeal, I always strive for success. Even now, I won’t let being incarcerated define me. I’m determined to come out of this with a posiive mindset and a beeer future..
I am from the Wild 100’s, From fashion and music. I am from the Roseland of nightmares,
guns, fights, drama.
From roller skates and house parties.
where dogs run through alleys,
I am from kush and alcohol. I am from Ramen noodles and hot sauce. I am from protecting my sisters,
cleaning the house before I go outside,
loyalty and respect.
I’m from a family of Christians who believe in Jesus Christ.