In the Blackseat

In the Blackseat is an unfiltered view of the Black experience, as told by Black people. Join us as we discuss everything from raising Black children to Black hair to being Black in the diaspora - this is a no holds barred exploration of the beauty, pain and diversity of being Blackity Black in the world today. In a world that stays trying to tell us who we are, we are controlling the narrative.

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In the Blackseat

Episode 14 | In the Blackseat, Mass Incarceration, Part I

December 09, 2020 • Liz M. • Season 1 • Episode 14

Mass incarceration has disproportionately affected the Black community for generations. Men and women have been stolen from their families and neighborhoods, and thrown behind bars, their bodies used as wood to keep lots of people warm (and rich).

We must never forget that inmates are people, so in this episode - the first part of our season finale - I want you to meet Kiilu and his wife Crystal. Kiilu spent his entire adult life in various prisons in California, for crimes he committed as a teenager. Although he had a 25 to life sentence, he changed his life and fought for his freedom. He's been out for fewer than six months, and he's in the Blackseat - with his lovely wife - to tell you his story.

It is a captivating and challenging conversation, and I am proud to share it with you.