In this episode, Rachel Dalinka moderates a powerful conversation between three formerly incarcerated individuals: Suave Gonzalez, Jeffrey Abramowitz, and Kimpedro Rodriguez. All transformed their lives and are now working to support others. The guests share their experiences with the challenges of re-entry, the importance of education and support systems, and the need for societal change in how returning citizens are perceived and treated. The discussion highlights the systemic barriers faced by those with criminal records, such as difficulty obtaining identification, housing, and employment, and emphasizes the importance of providing opportunities and support for successful reintegration.

Key Takeaways:

Transformation is Possible: Even in the face of significant adversity and systemic barriers, individuals can transform their lives and become positive forces for change.
Education is Crucial: Education plays a vital role in personal growth, empowerment, and successful re-entry.
Re-entry Challenges are Significant: Returning citizens face numerous obstacles, including lack of identification, housing discrimination, and employment barriers.
Support Systems are Essential: Mentorship, wraparound services, and community support are critical for successful reintegration and preventing recidivism.
Societal Change is Necessary: Employers and society as a whole need to change their perceptions of formerly incarcerated individuals and provide them with opportunities for a second chance.

Resources & Links Mentioned:

Rachel Dalinka: https://openingdoorspodcast.com/about-opening-doors
Suave Gonzalez: https://www.instagram.com/suavegonzalez215/
The "Suave" Podcast from Futuro Studios and PRX - Winner of 2022 Pulitzer Prize https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/suave/id1548544921
Suave Gonzalez's podcast and documentary updates: https://www.deathbyincarcerationpodcast.com/
Jeff Abramowitz: https://www.jeffrey-abramowitz.com/
Kimpedro Rodriguez: worldofkimpedro.com @peacepowerpercussion on Instagram
The Petey Green Program: An organization that provides educational support for incarcerated individuals and those re-entering society. https://www.peteygreene.org/
I Am More Program (Community College of Philadelphia): A program that supports formerly incarcerated individuals and their families with education and wraparound services. https://www.ccp.edu/student-services/student-assistance-centers/i-am-more-reentry-engagement-program
New Groove Network: An organization that connects artists of different generations to improve communities. https://newgroovemusicstudio.com/

Books:

Support Groups-Resources:

Grief Support Resources for Parents Who Have Lost Children to Gun Violence: https://judishouse.org/childhood-bereavement/gun-violence/
The Compassionate Friends non-profit organization exists to provide friendship, understanding, and hope to those going through the natural grieving process: https://www.compassionatefriends.org/
Adult Children of Alcoholics & Dysfunctional Families: https://adultchildren.org/meeting-search/
Co-Dependents Anonymous (CODA): https://coda.org/
Children of Incarcerated Parents: CAP4Kids -Philadelphia: https://cap4kids.org/philadelphia/parent-handouts/parenting-foster-care-adoption/incarceration-resources/
Rainbows for All Children: https://rainbows.org/

Support for Children dealing with Grief from many traumas, including incarcerated parents:

We Got Us Now: https://www.wegotusnow.org
National Resource Center on Children & Families of the Incarcerated – Rutgers Camden: https://nrccfi.camden.rutgers.edu/resources/directory/national-programs/
Youth.Gov: Children of Incarcerated Parents: https://youth.gov/youth-topics/children-of-incarcerated-parents/tools-guides-resources
Sesame Workshop: https://sesameworkshop.org/topics/incarceration/

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Opening Door Podcast Music by John Abella