LD.Cruse

Soren Kierkegaard, believed that “Becoming human is a project, and our task is not so much to discover who we are as to create ourselves”

(Corey, 2009, p. 135)

Prisons embody stark emptiness. They are dismal environments for those confined within.

The financial burden on Sedgwick County taxpayers amounts to approximately 43 million dollars annually for housing of humans in this jail.

It’s pretty much the most expensive place to sleep in town. It’s far from the Ritz, yet is has frequent flyers and the taxpayers are fitting the bill.

Regardless of the reasons for incarceration, and recognizing the voices advocating for punitive measures, there still exists an opportunity for a more humane approach to incarceration.

Many won’t understand the purpose. Many will discredit this work, meanwhile and disturbingly, recidivism rates are through the roof.

Such a high rate underscores a systemic issue demanding attention. It demands a different approach. About a 1000 different approaches. This is simply one.

Prisons can be a place to START the rehabilitation and healing process so people don’t return.

Color helps with that.

Shout out to Brick Mob, Chris Garcia, Dale Small, Christian Ministries of Offenders, Captain Paula Smith and everyone who helped make this happen, I’m so thankful to see this on the wall and I’m hopeful it won’t be the last change at the Sedgwick County Detention Facility.

Maybe next they can fence in the north lawn and build a garden. Teach inmates to grow things. Sell to local vendors.

Just a thought. :)