Tag Archives: race

Game Night

Posted on September 2, 2012 by

There are nine televisions in our unit–five for the blacks, three for the Mexicans, and one for the whites. You may watch whichever television you’d like, regardless of race, but only blacks may change channels on the black TVs, only … Continue reading →

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South

Posted on July 13, 2012 by

We sit with our elbows on the metal desk in his cell reciting parts of speech. The desks, painted what I call institution-gray, are inscribed with the histories of each cell’s past and current occupants: a water mark where someone … Continue reading →

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Half Alive

Posted on June 23, 2012 by

An inmate once exclaimed, “It’s as hot as a swamp out here,” and I pointed out to him that the prison is indeed built on what was once a swamp. Alligators live a mere fifty yards away in the undeveloped … Continue reading →

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Bring the Hot Sauce

Posted on March 16, 2012 by

The trick to making friends in prison is simple: bring the hot sauce. Technically, outside condiments are not allowed in the chow hall. But this rule, like so many others, is not typically enforced. Inmates regularly sneak in all sorts … Continue reading →

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Essays: Decisions

Posted on January 1, 2012 by

I asked the students in my GED lasses to write a short essay about a decision that changed their lives. Not many participated; most sat around making vulgar (yet amusing) comments about Ms. Williams’ robust anatomy: “Sheeeeet, I bet that … Continue reading →

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