WORDS FROM OUR FOUNDER

July  

Wed, Jul 31, 5:48 PM (15 hours ago) to me It's hard for me to understand People who have served 30,40,50 years, not receiving a second chance when they've done everything they've been asked to do. When the Parole Board says Serious Nature of the crime-- we have to realize that the crime will never change only the person can. Then with Virginia having the lowest rate of recidivism and the highest rate of reducing the prison population in the country, it's hard to understand why more aging prisoners would not get an opportunity for freedom. I thoroughly believe that a person at 50 is definitely not the same person that they were at 20 years old. I can remember my own 20's well, juggling life with four children and trying to figure out my place in the world. My understanding of consequences was jaded by the reality of my youth. Now, as a man in my late 40's, I understand how every decision you make has a significant result on your life! 
As we begin our parole initiative in August, we are doing this for the aging prisoners who are continually being told NO at their parole hearings. They have done the work, completed all the programs, and have families waiting for them--- but somehow, they're continually told NO! We are sad to inform you that in the month of March and April, only three people were approved parole. We believe the numbers in May and June are probably similar if not worse! We are now embarking on a journey of raising these parole numbers starting from August and September on into the future. If you believe in second chances for those who've done decades and have put in the work to redeem themselves, please reach out to us to assist. Every voice matters!
The40strong@gmail.com
In the meantime, continue to use your voice and always be a promoter of change! Our organization started with 40 members and now we have 1,000's! Making a difference only happens with Action and we need you!
              Free 40 Strong Founder

June

After almost 3 1/2 years of doing the work, I had no idea how tired I was. I can remember arriving at Greensville almost 2 weeks ago still exuberant from the great news on the victory of EXPANDING EARNED SENTENCE CREDITS. It was a little bit surreal after all of the strategy, networking, events, emails, action calls and everything else over the last two years. Did I ever doubt that we would win---- NOT AT ALL! There's something sobering about men and women being told that they would in fact be reuniting with their families, only to be told a couple weeks prior to that July 2022 date that
they wouldn't be. It was painful and heartbreaking to say the least. However, I used that pain, and those tears to fuel motivation. So, when I arrived here at Greensville I came with the baggage of many sleepless nights and the fatigue of reform. When I laid my head on my pillow the first night here, I slept like I hadn't slept in years! I would do the same the next night, and the next night and nights after that. Now, after almost two weeks here I feel somewhat like myself. It feels like I was in isolation at Lawrenceville almost. With Lawrenceville being privately owned, it was hard to tell what influence 40 Strong was really having in Virginia DOC. It wasn't until I was moved in population that it became crystal clear. I was greeted with so many hugs and smiles from members that it overwhelmed me. I TRULY HAD NO IDEA!!! Nevertheless, I gave hugs and listened to the stories of hope and newfound belief. Then the other day when I heard the nurse call 7 men to sign discharge papers of upcoming releases unbeknownst to them, it was surreal again. Many had release dates next year, or 2026 and even 2028. Their faces said it all! So yes, the hard work was paying off by us and all the organizations and advocates on the ground. This is a pivotal moment in Prison Reform in Virginia. Now, the focus shifts to the fight for Second Look in General Assembly session 25. I still believe and the motivation is there. As I look around Greensville, I see aged faces who've been here for decades begging for the chance for a Second Chance. I see the eyes of men who want to reunite with their families. So, the story continues... I am thankful for this journey and for our close to 2500 members that we give hope. I am humbled to serve and believe that Second Look is next. Let's GO!!!!

Free 40 Strong