How did it become that African Americans make up 40 percent of prison populations in the U.S.? Poor communities of color have been targets for incarceration through the implementation of racist laws and policies such as redlining, gang sentencing enhancements, The War on Drugs, and The Three Strikes Law. Even though these laws were established many years ago, the effects are still being seen today in the men and women who are coming out of our country's prison system just to go right back in.

What happens today when men and women return to "free society" can be considered a modern-form of segregation. Author and legal scholar, Michelle Alexander, would even go as far to say that there is a "new Jim Crow" emerging with the formation of laws that prohibit ex-felons from successfully reintegrating back into society. By denying the population the right to a job, private property, a vote, and public benefits, communities of color take on a second-class citizenship that mirrors that of the Jim Crow era.

The impact of this modern-day segregation is simple and clear - the roots cause destruction to poor communities of color leaving prison doors to become ones that continuously revolve for the same people, their families and friends, and the generations that are soon to follow.

Many progressive cities such as San Francisco, New York, and Washington D.C., have made an investment in grassroots organizations that work towards prison justice and reform by helping specific individuals with their reentry process. This is an important first step as it allows hope to endure in the community as well as rise in those are are most affected by our corrupt systems. Reentry programs, such as those that focus on the arts, technology, job training, entrepreneurship, athletics, etc. at the local level, are some of the most effective ways to reduce recidivism rates.

The most important things for recently released folks to learn is social skills for our modern society that will guide them to a successful future. Programs such as these are often implemented at halfway houses and non-profits but are crucial because they bring people together so that important social skills can be re-developed.

Based in Los Angeles, California this non-profit organization provides musical instruments and mentorship to incarcerated individuals state-wide in order to reduce recidivism, support rehabilitation, and create a safer environment within state prisons.

Studies found that participating prisoners in Jail Guitar Doors have 75% fewer disciplinary actions, and were up to 27% less likely to reoffend upon release.

"To see these gangbangers holding these guitars, not being able to play and just pulling on the strings - there's some magical power that's unleashed through this art. It's almost like immediate healing starts to take place." - anonymous quote

Based in northern California, this non-profit organization gives incarcerated men a chance to express themselves through the art of theatre. The focus in on drama-therapy which increases self reflection, self expression, emotional intelligence, goal setting, and so much more!

"My small part in the wonderful productions put on by your company have stripped away the anger and hate and armored myself in...I may not be a great actor but I have become a better man" - Az Ford, Actor, Shakespeare at San Quentin

Based in San Quentin state prison, this organization is run inside founded by men inside. They use dance and community to create a culture of transformation to end cycles of incarceration and to create more proximity between the general public and incarcerated people. This connection is essential to successful reentry!

They are changing the model of rehabilitative programming by handing the leadership and responsibility of transformation to the people who are being transformed...the participants learn how to navigate barriers of separation, technology, and bureaucracy together. This model just show how critical art is as a step in feeling self-empowered.

"I woke up one morning in a cell wanting to change my life and the world that had shaped my life. All I had was my art, so I learned to use that." - Emile DeWeaver, Co-founder.