‘White privilege’ was something she admits she had her entire life, but she didn’t realize it until a few years ago, not until all the movements that took place to bring attention to mistreatment of black and brown people. She wanted to help, do something, speak up and fight for the voiceless and those whose voices were heard – but ignored. She wanted to get involved, but she didn’t know where to begin or how to start her journey.
She didn’t have to, but she took the initiative to take the first step. She reached out to a church that connects inmates with positive people on the outside willing to get to know them without judgment, and eventually she became my penpal.
She had found a passion for change, and she shared that with those she knew, though many didn’t understand or support her. Everyone thought she was crazy for wanting to help people in prison, but she still reached out to me, determined to put light on what she saw as an unfair justice system that often sees guilt in the color of your skin.
She took the time to read about my case and the fifteen to thirty year sentence I was given for aiding and abetting, for being present when a crime took place, but not actually participating in a crime. She didn’t have to, but she chose to speak up and help fight for my freedom – or at least bring attention to it. She posted on social media sites and talked to advocates about my story. People she knew were embarrassed that she posted about me and knew people in prison. The people closest to her were against her, but she didn’t give up on me.
It was the first time in nine years of incarceration I felt hope again and believed someone cared even without actually ‘knowing’ me. She helped me to fight for my life and file appeals again even though I had already given up. She could have lost people close to her, but she stood up for something, against all odds, and showed true grit.
I ended up getting my federal appeal approved, and my penpal will forever have had an impact on my life.
ABOUT THE WRITER. Mr. Nero is our third place writing contest winner. This is only our second post by Tevin, and I am really glad to see him here for the contest. He wrote exactly to the prompt, and it does take a lot of courage and grit to stand true to your convictions when your peers see things differently. Curiosity had me look up his case – and I have to agree with his penpal. It was a very harsh sentence.
Tevin Nero can be contacted at:
Tevin Nero #792000
Alger Correctional Facility
N6141 Industrial Park Drive
Munising, MI 49862
Impressive story Nero, you have a golden Warrior Queen as your friend!