Maximum-security prison farm in Louisiana
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In this powerful replay from a live event at Upper House, we hear the extraordinary story of Calvin Duncan, a man wrongfully convicted at age 19 and sentenced to life in Louisiana's Angola Prison. Over 23 years, Calvin became a jailhouse lawyer, fighting for his own freedom and advocating for countless others. Joined by criminal justice reform advocate Sophie Cole, co-founder of the Visiting Room Project, Calvin shares his journey from incarceration to exoneration and ultimately earning a law degree at age 60. Moderated by journalist and ordained minister Phil Haslinger, this conversation explores the brokenness of the justice system, the transformative power of advocacy, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.Guests:Calvin Duncan – Jailhouse lawyer, law school graduate, co-founder of the New Orleans Innocence ProjectSophie Cole – Criminal justice reform advocate, co-founder of the Visiting Room ProjectModerator: Phil Haslinger – Journalist and ordained ministerTopics Covered:Wrongful conviction and the flaws in eyewitness testimonyLife inside Angola Prison and the role of jailhouse lawyersThe fight for access to legal records and justice reformReentry challenges after incarcerationFaith, resilience, and the meaning of advocacyResources & Links:https://slbf.org/eventshttps://slbf.org/studiohttps://www.visitingroomproject.org
How do we narrate history, both the troubling past and what we chose to remember? Clint Smith sets out to wrestle with this question and its relationship to enslavement in his first nonfiction book, How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America (Little, Brown and Company, 2021). From Monticello plantation to Angola Prison to Galveston Island, Smith guides the reader on a journey as he visits domestic and abroad landmarks. In his exploration, he includes the reactions of the people he meets, like tourists, local public historians, and teachers, illuminating how these sites and all of us participate in remembering enslavement in contemporary America. N'Kosi Oates is a Ph.D. candidate in Africana Studies at Brown University. Find him on Twitter at NKosiOates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
How do we narrate history, both the troubling past and what we chose to remember? Clint Smith sets out to wrestle with this question and its relationship to enslavement in his first nonfiction book, How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America (Little, Brown and Company, 2021). From Monticello plantation to Angola Prison to Galveston Island, Smith guides the reader on a journey as he visits domestic and abroad landmarks. In his exploration, he includes the reactions of the people he meets, like tourists, local public historians, and teachers, illuminating how these sites and all of us participate in remembering enslavement in contemporary America. N'Kosi Oates is a Ph.D. candidate in Africana Studies at Brown University. Find him on Twitter at NKosiOates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/history
How do we narrate history, both the troubling past and what we chose to remember? Clint Smith sets out to wrestle with this question and its relationship to enslavement in his first nonfiction book, How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America (Little, Brown and Company, 2021). From Monticello plantation to Angola Prison to Galveston Island, Smith guides the reader on a journey as he visits domestic and abroad landmarks. In his exploration, he includes the reactions of the people he meets, like tourists, local public historians, and teachers, illuminating how these sites and all of us participate in remembering enslavement in contemporary America. N'Kosi Oates is a Ph.D. candidate in Africana Studies at Brown University. Find him on Twitter at NKosiOates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/political-science
How do we narrate history, both the troubling past and what we chose to remember? Clint Smith sets out to wrestle with this question and its relationship to enslavement in his first nonfiction book, How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America (Little, Brown and Company, 2021). From Monticello plantation to Angola Prison to Galveston Island, Smith guides the reader on a journey as he visits domestic and abroad landmarks. In his exploration, he includes the reactions of the people he meets, like tourists, local public historians, and teachers, illuminating how these sites and all of us participate in remembering enslavement in contemporary America. N'Kosi Oates is a Ph.D. candidate in Africana Studies at Brown University. Find him on Twitter at NKosiOates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies
How do we narrate history, both the troubling past and what we chose to remember? Clint Smith sets out to wrestle with this question and its relationship to enslavement in his first nonfiction book, How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America (Little, Brown and Company, 2021). From Monticello plantation to Angola Prison to Galveston Island, Smith guides the reader on a journey as he visits domestic and abroad landmarks. In his exploration, he includes the reactions of the people he meets, like tourists, local public historians, and teachers, illuminating how these sites and all of us participate in remembering enslavement in contemporary America. N'Kosi Oates is a Ph.D. candidate in Africana Studies at Brown University. Find him on Twitter at NKosiOates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/journalism
How do we narrate history, both the troubling past and what we chose to remember? Clint Smith sets out to wrestle with this question and its relationship to enslavement in his first nonfiction book, How the Word is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America (Little, Brown and Company, 2021). From Monticello plantation to Angola Prison to Galveston Island, Smith guides the reader on a journey as he visits domestic and abroad landmarks. In his exploration, he includes the reactions of the people he meets, like tourists, local public historians, and teachers, illuminating how these sites and all of us participate in remembering enslavement in contemporary America. N'Kosi Oates is a Ph.D. candidate in Africana Studies at Brown University. Find him on Twitter at NKosiOates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-south
Rattling the Bars's Mansa Musa explores how a one-woman play, The Peculiar Patriot, reveals the human cost of mass incarceration and the enduring ties between slavery and the prison system. The artist behind the play, Liza Jessie Peterson, has worked with incarcerated youth for decades, bringing their stories to the stage and to national audiences. Performed in more than 35 US prisons and filmed at Louisiana's Angola Prison—once a plantation, now a maximum-security facility—the play became the basis of the documentary, Angola: Do You Hear Us? (Paramount Plus / Amazon Prime). As the fight for abolition and prison reform gains momentum, this story reminds us that art is not decoration—it's a tool for awakening, organizing, and freedom.
Rattling the Bars's Mansa Musa explores how a one-woman play, The Peculiar Patriot, reveals the human cost of mass incarceration and the enduring ties between slavery and the prison system. The artist behind the play, Liza Jessie Peterson, has worked with incarcerated youth for decades, bringing their stories to the stage and to national audiences. Performed in more than 35 US prisons and filmed at Louisiana's Angola Prison—once a plantation, now a maximum-security facility—the play became the basis of the documentary, Angola: Do You Hear Us? (Paramount Plus / Amazon Prime). As the fight for abolition and prison reform gains momentum, this story reminds us that art is not decoration—it's a tool for awakening, organizing, and freedom.
Send us a text[For a complementary audio excerpt of Gary Tyler's book, narrated by Cary Hite, describing the point when Tyler is considering accepting a government plea agreement, and starting life outside Angola, listen here. Copyright © 2025 by Gary Tyler. Audio excerpt courtesy of Simon & Schuster. Audio read by Cary Hite, from the audiobook Stitching Freedom by Gary Tyler, published by Simon & Schuster Audio, a Division of Simon & Schuster, Inc. Used with permission from Simon & Schuster, Inc.]In 1974, at the age of 16, Gary Tyler, who is African American, and was born in St. Rose Parish, Louisiana, was convicted by an all-white jury of a crime he did not commit: the murder of a white teenager. Tyler was sentenced to death. He was sent to Louisiana's infamous Angola prison, where he was the youngest person on death row in the United States. A song by the British reggae band, UB40, titled in his name, “Tyler,” captures the injustice. But Gary Tyler survived to tell the tale, and to write a magnificent book about his life experience: Stitching Freedom: A True Story of Injustice, Defiance, and Hope in Angola Prison, written with Ellen Bravo, and published by Simon and Schuster. Gary Tyler was released from custody in 2016, having spent four decades in prison. Despite the compelling evidence of his innocence, he has never been exonerated. We had the honor of recording our discussion with Gary on October 6, the day before his book's release, and the October 7 anniversary of his arrest, decades later.
KCSU music director Ria sat down with Jared Swilley of Black Lips ahead of their Dever show at the Mission Ballroom on October 28th, 2025. On this tour the band is supporting Viagra Boys whilst performing songs from their latest album “Season of the Peach”. The two discuss the excitement of touring, the juxtaposition of telling intense stories with a lighthearted sound, and how aliens might react to bird sounds.Ria JanapatiWe are here at the Mission Ballroom, October 2[7]th, [2025]. You are Jared of the Black Lips-Jared SwilleyJared, and you are?Ria I am Ria, Music Director of KCSU; I've got some questions. Jared Cool. Ria First one being: You've been doing this music thing for a hot minute now, are there things about being on the road specifically that change for you excitement level wise? Jared Oh sure, yeah. There's a different, like, excitement level. I've been touring since I was 16. We drove- the first like US tour we ever did was pretty miserable, but it was still the funnest thing; like, by my standards today, it would be pretty miserable, but I remember seeing the desert for the first time, and that's like, that excitement- I can remember the excitement I felt, like, the first time I saw a cactus. But like, now, you know, I slept on a pretty drive today because I've seen a lot of that stuff. So that changes. I still love being on stage and stuff. But yeah, I mean, just like, anything you do forever, things get boring. Ria Are there any cities that you visited a first time and you, like, couldn't wait to go back? Or maybe the opposite, you were really excited, but it wasn't your fav. Jared Oh, I won't mention any cities I didn't like, because I figure it's best not to say negative things about people or places. But there's... like, yeah, a lot of cities. I mean, talk about [the] excitement of being someplace. I remember the feeling of the first time we went to Europe to play; I couldn't believe it, like, because it was, it felt really cool. And I wanted to go back to all those cities, and I have been back to pretty much all of them. Or, like, you know, like Tokyo, like going there, I was like, "I have to come back here. It's awesome." So most, most places I would like, I, you know, there's, there's very few places I'd be like, “I never want to go there again.” So, yeah, I like most places.Ria I've seen that you guys have come to be known for pulling some antics during live shows, especially more in the DIY spaces. Has there been anything you've really wanted to do during a live show that would just be like a fun little act that no one saw coming? Jared There is one that we've been talking about doing... because we've done, like, all sorts of crazy stuff, and we're, like, older now, so I'm not trying to, like, make anyone upset anymore, like, do anything crazy. But like, have you ever seen the Wizard of Oz? Ria Absolutely. Jared So you know, like, when the Munchkins, like those guys come out as, like, the lollipop... the old guys? We want to- I guess I'm spilling the beans here, but it'll surprise people when we do it. But like, we kind of, like… We have this song that's about eating candy on our new record, and we want to just like, stop in the middle, hopefully, at a really huge show, like something like this [Mission Ballroom], or at a big festival, and, like, drop our instruments and go into the lollipop guild dance and then just start playing again. That's kind of like what we want to do.Ria Nice. A little surprise, a little dance break. Jared YeahRia Yeah, awesome. You just have to get the choreography down. Jared Yeah.Ria And then your newest album, Season of the Peach, I noticed it takes on a lot of different genre influences. There's some rockabilly sound, there's some 60s stuff, some folk stuff going on, just all over the place. So when you're taking inspiration to create something new like that, where do you find yourself looking?Jared I'm always looking in the past, and that's just for me. Fortunately, in this band, like all five members [contribute equally], right? So that's why it can kind of seem like it's all over the place, like musically. But, I mean, I only listen to, like, very old music, so that's kind of really what I'm pulling from; I listen to, like, old country and doo-wop and rockabilly and blues and stuff like that, so that's usually... I'm just trying to recreate stuff in a kind of, like, not as good way as the stuff I really like.Ria Back on your 2020 album, there's a song called "Angola Rodeo", and that song really interested me in the storytelling of it. It seemed like a bit of a silly take on, like, real life events. So-Jared YeahRia When you're going about doing that. Where do you draw the line between like, not taking yourself too seriously?Jared Well, you want to like, not like... or at least with me, I want to be like, if I'm talking about something very serious, and that's a very serious thing... Do you know the story of, like, the Angola rodeo? Ria Yeah, it's a prison rodeo.Jared Yeah, prison rodeo, and we actually went to it. I'd always wanted to go, and we went, and it's like, you know, it's pretty controversial. I happen to be in favor of it, just because it's like, if you're doing life in prison, or if you're on death row, like, it's the best day of your life when you get to do... They actually do it for like, a few months of the year. But you know, you don't want to be too preachy or too sappy, so you got to have your tongue firmly in cheek. My theory has always been, if you have, like, a really sad subject matter, make it a very poppy sounding song. And if you have really happy sounding stuff, it should be like, darker. That's kind of like how I like to do things. Ria Yeah, just flip them on their head. Jared And it's still, like... The lyrics are still like, kind of serious; but it's like a fun kind of sounding song. But you know, the Angola Prison is, like, one of the darkest places in the United States. It's pretty rough there.Ria I just thought that was really interesting, because on a first listen, if you're not really paying attention, it'll just be like, "Oh, this is a fun little tune-Jared There is, like, a big, like, stark contrast when you go to that rodeo, because you are in this just incredibly dark place. You drive in and you see death row, and you see the fields they're all working in, but then you go in there, and it's like, a really happy environment; like the prisoners... It's like, all guys on best behavior, but they've been working; like, they sell their arts and crafts that day. Their families are allowed to come in. They can actually have like, conjugal visits with their family in there. So it's like, it's super dark, ...
Gary Tyler, a Black teenager from St Charles Parish, was falsely accused and wrongfully convicted in 1976 of murdering a white student during a racially charged incident on a school bus, despite no physical evidence and testimony later recanted. He was sentenced to death at age 17, making him one of the youngest people on death row in the U.S. at the time. After nearly 41 years in prison, Tyler was released in 2016 when his conviction was reduced and he accepted a plea deal, widely recognized as a grave miscarriage of justice. Now he is an accomplished fiber artist and the author of 'STITCHING FREEDOM: A True Story of Injustice, Defiance, and Hope in Angola Prison." Gary Tyler joins Ian Hoch to share his experience.
Marc Cox talks with Eben Brown about the legal fight over “Alligator Alcatraz,” the detention center in the Florida Everglades facing conflicting court orders and jurisdiction disputes. They also discuss a new ICE facility at Angola Prison in Louisiana that will house criminal migrants for DHS. The segment wraps with a look at Chicago's high homicide numbers, often reported between 700 and 800 a year, and the political debate around crime statistics.
Marc Cox is joined by Hayden Padgett and Eben Brown to discuss the appeals court ruling on Trump and Harvard, campus anti-Semitism, and civil rights. They look at Chicago's high murder rate and political debate over crime, updates on migrant detention at Alligator Alcatraz and Angola Prison, and new victim testimonies in the Epstein case. Padgett also highlights efforts to recruit young conservative leaders.
In Hour 1, Marc Cox covers Dan Buck's dislocated shoulder that landed him in the hospital, forcing him to miss the show. The conversation shifts to traffic congestion at the Boone Bridge, merging frustrations, and commuter tips. Marc dives into politics with Missouri redistricting, the New York mayoral race featuring Zohran Mamdani and Andrew Cuomo, judicial rulings, Jasmine Crockett's comments, and Eric Greitens' career. He also highlights U.S. military action against a drug boat and the role of technology in combating cartels Hour 2 features an update on Dan Buck's shoulder dislocation and discussion of Cardinals baseball, including Yadier Molina and Albert Pujols possibly returning in coaching or management roles. Marc talks about athletes staying connected to sports after retirement and gives his prediction for Mizzou vs Kansas, leaning toward a Mizzou win. In Other News, topics include Amazon Prime's new sharing policy, Sugar Fire's happy hour special, the $1.7 billion Powerball with no winner, the birth of two endangered leopard cubs at the St. Louis Zoo, Boar's Head listeria outbreak settlements, and Mizzou kicker Blake Craig's ACL injury. Hour 3 - Marc Cox is joined by Hayden Padgett and Eben Brown to discuss the appeals court ruling on Trump and Harvard, campus anti-Semitism, and civil rights. They look at Chicago's high murder rate and political debate over crime, updates on migrant detention at Alligator Alcatraz and Angola Prison, and new victim testimonies in the Epstein case. Padgett also highlights efforts to recruit young conservative leaders. In Hour 4, Marc Cox is joined by Shannon Bream and Griff Jenkins. They cover National Guard deployments in Los Angeles, Chicago, and the debate over federal vs local authority. Griff explains the Pentagon's move to send 600 lawyers to tackle the 3.7 million immigration court backlog. The hour also looks at crime in Chicago and St. Louis, new legal cases involving Harvard and First Amendment rights, a potential bipartisan bill to stop insider trading in Congress, and a Canadian home invasion story.
On today's episode of The Right Time, Bomani Jones is joined by Van Lathan, host of the Higher Learning podcast at The Ringer. The show begins with Bo asking about Van's lasso behind him that belonged to his father (1:28) before a brief conversation about Angola Prison in Louisiana (5:00). They react to the Hunter Biden interview with Channel 5 (21:35) and discuss Biden's crack use, including why he most likely got many others addicted to crack (27:11). After the break they reminisce about the life of Malcolm-Jamal Warner (30:27) and emotions that are evoked when a celebrity you loved dies (38:19). The show rounds out with Bo saying how immersed he was in Prince's death and how that was only three months after David Bowie's passing. (53:45) . . . Subscribe to Supercast for Ad-Free Episodes: https://righttime.supercast.com/ Buy 'The Right Time' merch: http://therighttimebomani.com/ Subscribe to The Right Time with Bomani Jones on Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts and follow the show on Instagram, Twitter, and Tik Tok for all the best moments from the show. Download Full Podcast Here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6N7fDvgNz2EPDIOm49aj7M?si=FCb5EzTyTYuIy9-fWs4rQA&nd=1&utm_source=hoobe&utm_medium=social Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-right-time-with-bomani-jones/id982639043?utm_source=hoobe&utm_medium=social Follow The Right Time with Bomani Jones on Social Media: http://lnk.to/therighttime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Today's journey of We Should Get Out More brings us to something a little different: a chat with Len Vanden Bos, chaplain of the Buffalo Bills– where John and Len visit one of the largest maximum-security prisons in the U.S. John and Nancy recently visited and what they saw was staggering. Angola holds countless stories not just of pain and injustice, but amazingly, deep transformation and freedom. Tune in for a meaningful chat about true surrender. People who aren't being formed by algorithms, but truly the Holy Spirit.Become New is here to help you grow spiritually one day at a time.
If you want to explore more, check out resources at RENEW.org. We recommend the article “Is Discipleship Required?” — a thoughtful look at why following Jesus means embracing discipleship. You can read it here: renew.org/is-discipleship-required. Until next time, keep pursuing real life in Christ. Today's episode will help us see how strategic partnerships—like those formed through the Solomon Foundation—can strengthen churches, fuel growth, and create lasting impact in communities and leaders' lives. Doug Fultz & Ken Idleman dives into the power of partnerships in ministry, with a special focus on the work of the Solomon Foundation. The episode kicks off with a relaxed, personal atmosphere—participants introduce themselves, share ministry backgrounds, and even chat about career goals and growing cities. From that casual start, the conversation naturally shifts into a deeper discussion about how strategic partnerships can fuel church growth and community impact. Doug Fultz and Ken Idleman lead the way, drawing from decades of ministry experience. Ken shares how biblical partnerships—from Moses and Aaron to Jesus and the disciples—have always been key to mission success. He reflects on his own ministry journey and the critical role partnerships played in growing churches and building strong communities. Doug focuses on the practical side—how networking among pastors and church leaders led to church plants and revitalization efforts. He highlights how the Solomon Foundation acts not just as a lender, but as a true ministry partner. With flexible financing and a heart for the local church, the Foundation helps churches grow—sometimes starting with no down payment at all. Real-life stories bring the impact to life: Nathan Freeman's church in Jacksonville grew from meeting in a funeral home to owning a $9M facility. Southern Hills Christian Church expanded significantly thanks to customized financial solutions. Even unique ministries, like a fully inmate-led church inside Angola Prison and Louisiana's Keep It Real reentry program, are thriving with support from the Foundation. Doug and Ken also stress that partnerships go beyond money. The Solomon Foundation invests in the spiritual health of leaders, offering mentorship, counseling, and encouragement. They wrap up by inviting listeners to see partnership as a way to make real kingdom impact—not just financially, but relationally and spiritually. This episode is a strong reminder that ministry isn't meant to be done alone—and that with the right partners, churches can do more than just survive; they can flourish.
Louisiana is in the midst of a deadly and growing outbreak of whooping cough. So far, two babies have died, and pediatricians have been urging the public to check their vaccine status and get vaccinated. Public health reporter Rosemary Westwood speaks with state epidemiologist Theresa Sokol to get an update on the situation.For 60 years, rodeo has been a tradition at the state's most notorious prison, Angola. The event lets inmates show off their vocational and artistic skills – and even make money. But it can be brutal, with inmates participating in dangerous activities some view as dehumanizing or exploitative. In the latest episode of The Light Switch podcast, Louisiana Illuminator reporter Piper Hutchinson speaks with Andrew Hundley, co-founder of the Louisiana Parole Project, to learn about the rodeo and opportunities for inmates after they're released.___Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Alana Schreiber. Our managing producer is Alana Schrieber. Matt Bloom and Aubry Procell are assistant producers. Our engineer is Garrett Pittman.You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, Google Play and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!
Today, Hunter spoke with Kristen Rome the Executive Director of the Louisiana Center for Children's Rights. Last fall, Hunter spoke with another member of LCCR about the policies pursued by Governor Jeff Landry to make it easier for the state to criminalize young people. Sadly, today's episode is on the same topic. Up for a vote on March 29th, Louisiana's Amendment Three is a Constitutional Amendment that would give the legislature nearly unlimited power to get young people prosecuted in the adult legal system. Kristen joins the show to help explain what the amendment is, how it got on the ballot, and why people should vote no! Guest Kristen Rome, Executive Director, Louisiana Center for Children's Rights Resources: Find LCCR's Work Here https://lakidsrights.org/ https://www.facebook.com/lakidsrights https://x.com/LAKidsRights https://www.instagram.com/LAKidsRights Vote No On Three https://www.noon3la.org/ Laws Targeting Mostly Black Parishes https://apnews.com/article/juvenile-records-louisiana-e95896fcc0ca3e1a8d92409a345ad706 Contact Hunter Parnell: Publicdefenseless@gmail.com Instagram @PublicDefenselessPodcast Twitter @PDefenselessPod www.publicdefenseless.com Subscribe to the Patron www.patreon.com/PublicDefenselessPodcast Donate on PayPal https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=5KW7WMJWEXTAJ Donate on Stripe https://donate.stripe.com/7sI01tb2v3dwaM8cMN Trying to find a specific part of an episode? Use this link to search transcripts of every episode of the show! https://app.reduct.video/o/eca54fbf9f/p/d543070e6a/share/c34e85194394723d4131/home
News flash: Slavery didn't end after the Civil War. Thanks to the massive loophole of the 13th Amendment, it's still going strong - in the form of forced prison labor all across America. We take you to Louisiana, the world's incarceration leader. Local historian Eric Seiferth tells about Louisiana's barbaric prison labor system, where inmates are forced to toil in the same fields worked by enslaved people over 150 years ago. We're talking reparations? Let's start by actually ending slavery in America!SHOW NOTESGuest: Eric Seiferth Eric Seiferth is a curator and historian with the Historic New Orleans Collection. His extensive research was instrumental in creating Captive State: Louisiana and the Making of Mass Incarceration, an exhibit examining the roots of Louisiana's dubious distinction as the incarceration capital of the world.More on Louisiana's slave labor system:Promise of Justice Initiative – New Orleans-based group fighting to stop enslaved labor and other atrocities of the Prison Industrial Complex.Derrick Fruga's Return Home - Short film about formerly incarcerated man whose nearly two decades of forced labor earned him just enough money to buy his mother a bouquet of flowers.Visiting Room Project – Website lets you sit face-to-face with people serving life without parole at Angola Prison, telling their stories in their own words. The only collection of its kind with over 100 interviews.Angola Prisoners Lawsuit More on mass incarceration and forced prison labor:“13th” – Oscar-nominated documentary on our history of forced prison labor and the 13th Amendment loophole.Equal Justice Initiative – One of America's leading advocacy groups fighting for justice in the penal system. California Voters Reject Anti-Slavery PropositionACLU graphic of America's coast-to-coast slave wages for prison laborMore on “Captive State” and HNOC:Captive State: Louisiana and the Making of Mass Incarceration - exhibit websiteHistoric New Orleans Collection website HIGHLIGHTS OF EPISODE[5:45] Forced labor in the Louisiana prison system[9:01] Through-line from slavery at Angola plantation to slave labor at Angola Prison today[19:28] Louisiana eliminates parole for life sentences and adds life-term offenses[23:19] Louisiana's impact on brutal practices across U.S. prisons[28:40] Tension in New Orleans between horrific oppression and creative resistance[33:48] Importance of shining a light on our true history and organizing for reparations Contact Tony & AdamSubscribe ·
It's Day 2 of Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation hearing to be Health Secretary, and many are wondering how Republican Senator Bill Cassidy will vote. The former emergency room doctor has concerns about the vaccine skeptic. Although Cassidy mostly votes along party lines, he did vote to impeach Trump on Jan. 6 charges. The Times-Picayune/The Advocate's editorial director and columnist Stepahnie Grace joined the show to share the latest. The new movie about the life of Bob Dylan, “A Complete Unknown,” is shedding a light on the folk music revival. But many don't know how Louisiana musician Huddie Leadbetter, or Lead Belly, played a role in expanding the genre. While his framed portrait only makes a brief cameo in the film, Lead Belly was a big influence on folk artists like Bob Dylan, Pete Seeger and Woody Guthrie. Although the common narrative insists he was “discovered” by white folklorists while locked up in Angola Prison, a new book is separating fact from fiction. Sheila Curran Bernard is the author of “Bring Judgment Day: Reclaiming Lead Belly's Truths from Jim Crow's Lies.” She breaks down the myths of his career and how he expanded folk and blues music across the U.S. and Europe.Poor sanitation is a longstanding issue in the Gulf South, especially in Alabama's Black Belt where the soil is a problem for traditional septic systems. The state's previous rules for funding water infrastructure made it difficult for residents to fix sanitation issues themselves. The Gulf States Newsroom's Danny McArthur reports on the patchwork of people and groups trying to address the problem.___Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Bob Pavlovich. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber. We receive production and technical support from Garrett Pittman, Adam Vos and our assistant producer, Aubry Procell.You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 pm. It's available on Spotify, the NPR App, and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!
This is the conclusion of our two part interview with Andrew Krinks on his recently published book White Property, Black Trespass: Racial Capitalism and the Religious Function of Mass Criminalization. Today we explore the religious functions police play for Christian societies, in particular the US, and their relationship to theological concepts of redemption and salvation. We also talk about religious discipline, labor discipline and regimes of prison labor, which is obviously topical with renewed discussions of incarcerated fire fighters with the recent wildfires in Southern California. Krinks also explains why the dehumanization of prisons should not be understood as a violation of their mandate, but a fundamental aspect of it, one that also serves a function within the religious ideologies from which the prison emerges. Definitely check out part one of this conversation if you missed it and if you are inclined to up a copy of the book, which is a fascinating read, check out our friends at Massive Bookshop who use the proceeds from their book sales to bail people out of jail. I also just want to plug that we have an ongoing video series on our YouTube channel with Mtume Gant who is a filmmaker, media critic, and professor of film, where we are reading and discussing Cedric Robinson's book Forgeries of Memory and Meaning. And if you like this conversation I think you'll find a lot of resonance with those discussions as well as they really go into how and when race-making processes are instrumentalized in the media, using historical examples. We aim to bring you content multiple times per week, sometimes it's in video from, sometimes it's in audio form, so make sure that you subscribe to our podcast feed as well as to our YouTube channel. In order to release this much work, requires a great deal of support from our listeners and viewers. We will have another study group starting up in late February and that will be open to all of our patrons as well. Thank you so much for all of your support, and if you would like to join the wonderful community of folks who make this show possible, become a patron of the show for as little as $1 a month at Patreon.com/millennialsarekillingcapitalism. Links: Billy Graham and the caskets made at Angola Prison. Recent video episode on the California Wildfires with Mel Lopez and Alejandro Villalpando Forgeries of Memory and Meaning with Mtume Gant White Property, Black Trespass: Racial Capitalism and the Religious Function of Mass Criminalization through Massive Bookshop .
Release Date: 07-29-2019In this episode of Houndsmen XP, Steve and Chris sit down for a visit with Cleave and Becky Dwire of northern Nevada for a great conversation about their experiences as professional outfitters, specializing in dry ground lion hunts.Becky talks about her experience being a professional trainer and working with the most elite canine trackers in the world at Angola Prison in Louisiana and bird dog training legends of the south west. Growing up around hunting dogs and the greatest trainers in the country led her on a path to become an Xtreme houndsman and marry not only the love of her life but also an adventurous lifestyle.Cleave, soft spoken, as is common among tough hombres of the west, dives into topics about scent, dog's noses and mules. He openly shares his knowledge about dry ground lion hunting and his successes as a professional lion hunter, muleskinner and Xtreme houndsman.Together, Cleave and Becky make a dynamic hound duo, sharing a story book hound hunting life in some of the toughest conditions for trail hounds in the U.S. This is an episode you don't want to miss. ►Get Your Houndsman XP Info, Gear & More Here!www.HoundsmanXP.com►Become a Patron of Houndsman XP! Check out our Tailgate Talks.|
We have guests! Professors Eric Bronson and Beck Strah interview students Caroline, Daniel, Emma, Pete about their visit to the Prison Rodeo at the Louisiana State Correctional Facility at Angola. They also discuss smuggling meth into prison, Beck spilling Gumbo on his pants, the ethics of the prison rodeo, Hurricanes, the rodeo fair, trustees, the violence of the rodeo, prison cats, and Condemned to Hell (1984).
Eric Seiferth is a curator and historian at the Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC), and he joins us on this Pelican Briefs Pop-In to dive into the powerful exhibit Captive State: Louisiana and the Making of Mass Incarceration. We explore how Louisiana's 300-year history of slavery, punishment, and racial oppression has shaped the state's current system of mass incarceration, including the connections between Angola Prison, forced labor, and the convict lease system. Together, we discuss the historical roots of these policies and their ongoing impact on Louisiana's criminal justice system. From tough-on-crime legislation to the rollback of criminal justice reforms, we tackle the big questions around how mass incarceration has evolved and what it means for public safety today. Don't miss this critical conversation on how history continues to influence incarceration in Louisiana. If you are interested in visiting the HNOC's exhibit Captive State: Louisiana and the Making of Mass Incarceration, find more information here: https://www.hnoc.org/exhibitions/captive-state-louisiana-and-making-mass-incarceration Follow Pelican Briefs Patreon: patreon.com/LaPelicanBriefs Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lapelicanbriefs/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560259747696 X: https://x.com/LaPelicanBriefs
A nine-year-old lawsuit alleges lack of proper medical care for inmates at Angola Prison. Months ago, U.S. District Judge Shelly Dick issued an opinion ordering the state to fix its quote “callous and wanton disregard” for the health of those in custody.But in the months since, there's very little to indicate that this failing prison healthcare system will change. Reporter Richard Webster has been covering this story for Verite News and ProPublica. He joins us today to explain why a decades-old law seeking to prevent inmates from filing lawsuits is thwarting the latest attempts for medical improvements.July 25 marked the one-year anniversary that national monuments were created across the U.S. remembering Emmett Till and his mother Mamie Till-Mobley. Till— a young Black teenager—was murdered in Mississippi nearly 70 years ago and it became a flashpoint in the Civil Rights movement.As Gulf States Newsroom's Maya Miller reports, now young Black filmmakers in the Magnolia State are now using the sites to tell the Till family's story while explaining the complex history of their community.New Orleans' City Park leaders are moving forward with plans for redevelopment of certain areas. The process has already generated some controversy as early drafts suggested paving a new street over the Grow Dat Youth Farm, a popular urban youth farming program. Reporter Drew Costley of Verite News spoke with producer Matt Bloom about the latest in the park's planning efforts, and why supporters of the farm claim they've been left out of the decision-making process. — Today's episode of Louisiana Considered was hosted by Adam Vos. Our managing producer is Alana Schreiber; our contributing producers are Matt Bloom and Adam Vos; we receive production and technical support from Garrett Pittman and our assistant producer, Aubry Procell.You can listen to Louisiana Considered Monday through Friday at noon and 7 p.m. It's available on Spotify, Google Play, and wherever you get your podcasts. Louisiana Considered wants to hear from you! Please fill out our pitch line to let us know what kinds of story ideas you have for our show. And while you're at it, fill out our listener survey! We want to keep bringing you the kinds of conversations you'd like to listen to.Louisiana Considered is made possible with support from our listeners. Thank you!
What does it do to you when someone you love is ripped from the family, charged with a crime, wrongfully incarcerated, and – after nearly 25 years, continues to serve a life sentence without the possibility of parole in the infamous Angola prison – a national disgrace – despite evidence of his innocence, and still protesting his innocence? Deborah G. Plant, author of the book OF GREED AND GLORY: IN PURSUIT OF FREEDOM FOR ALL is my guest today. Informed by her own personal experience . . . armed with her skills as a scholar, author, and literary critic with a masters and doctorate in English . . . YES, this story could happen to anyone, and has too often happened to too many African-American Everymans and Everywomans Deborah Plant takes moments that can bring you to your knees and gives us a book to bring us to our senses; to a knowledge of what is being done to thousands of people in our name as American citizens. We close this episode with a profile of Angola Prison, the infamous Louisiana State Penitentiary located on the site of 8,000-acre Angola Plantation—so named for the homeland of people enslaved there. Clint Smith travelled to the prison to research his #1 New York Times bestseller, "HOW THE WORD IS PASSED: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America." He spoke about Angola during his visit to the show in 2021.
At just 16 years old Ronald Olivier made a decision that would change his life forever, but he wouldn't let it define it. On today's show Ronald shares his journey from growing up in poverty-stricken New Orleans to being sentenced to life in prison with no chance of parole at the age of 16. He recounts his transformation in prison and how he became a missionary, spreading the gospel to other inmates. Despite facing challenges and unjust treatment, Ronald remains hopeful and finds purpose in his faith. He shares a powerful encounter with the victim's mother, ways he saw God move in other prisoners' life, and the impact forgiveness had in changing his life forever. Today, Ronald Olivier is a loving husband and father. He has his Bachelor's Degree in Christian Ministry and is an ordained minister. For several years Ronald served as the Director of Chaplaincy for the Mississippi State Penitentiary, and today serves as a Client Advocate for the Louisiana Parole Project where he helps formerly incarcerated individuals transition back into society.Ultimately, Ronald's story is one of redemption and the power of God's grace, and we know you'll love hearing about his journey of freedom, forgiveness, and redemption during his time in Angola prison. Ronald's life is a testament to the power of forgiveness and the possibility of redemption.Thanks for listening and sharing this episode with a friend! SHOW LINKS: Connect with Ronald27 Summers Brandon's Episode on The Happy Hour Kent's Episode on The Happy Hour
Deborah Plant, author of Of Greed and Glory: In Pursuit of Freedom for All, joins us to discuss the justice system, how those who enforce the law have internal biases, white priviliege in the courts, and Deborah's personal experience with her brother's life sentence at Angola Prison.Facepalm America: facepalmamerica.comTwitter: @FacepalmUSAFind Beowulf: @BeowulfRochlenBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/facepalm-america--5189985/support.
In this episode I talk with first-time author Ronald Olivier whose life is a movie...or at least a book. He wrote "27 Summers: My Journey to Freedom, Forgiveness, and Redemption During My Time in Angola Prison." As a historian and racial justice advocate, I've made incarceration one of my primary areas of focus in terms of action and raising awareness. That's why I was honored and excited to talk to Ronald about his experiences in Angola Prison and what he has share with us now that he's on the other side. You'll fee like you could listen to Ronald tell stories all day. Especially because of his mellifluous Louisiana accent. You will also be inspired by the depth and richness of his faith. He's sincere when he says he lives by the motto: "Don't tell me what God can't do!" Support Ronald's Work: Get the Book: 27 Summers Follow Ronald on IG: @RonaldSlim75 Follow Ronald on FB: Ronald Olivier Support Jemar's Work Subscribe + Rate + Review the Footnotes podcast Subscribe to my Substack: JemarTisby.Substack.com Get your merch: JusticeTakesSide.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Bonjour! Stephanie here. I just finished reading a book called “27 Summers” by Ronald Olivier, and I'm still recovering from the shock of it. He shares his gripping journey of running the streets in Louisiana of life without parole at the Angola prison and then finding his way back home. 27 Summers, that's 27 years he spent in Angola prison. The first time that Ronald saw someone killed, he was 12 years old. Death was It's all around, and after running the New Orleans streets for several years selling drugs, stealing cars, he murdered a young man at age 16. And so he was sentenced to life in prison without parole. That is his story of how he lost his life, and he's going to tell us how, by God's grace, he found it again inside a prison cell in the worst prison in the states. He grew up in the eighth ward of New Orleans, and the streets were his playground. He played hard without many consequences until one ill-fated Christmas day when he pulled his gun, fired it, and killed someone. After waiting 2 years for trial, he was convicted a state of second-degree murder, and he was sentenced to life in prison without parole in Angola, the Louisiana state penitentiary which is America's most notoriously brutal prison. His memoir came out just a few weeks ago, 27 Summers. Ronald gives us an in-depth look into this mesmerizing story, his youth, he the Adrenaline filled highs, the utter lows, the near-3 decades of incarceration, and most of all, God's relentless love reaching into those dark depths. He details finding true freedom during the imprisonment. He details the miraculous release. The story continues to this day, and he tells us about it in today's episode. I've asked him why he wrote this book. And he said it's to be inspired by god's unrelenting love for all of us, his grace, his redemption, and they're on full display as Ronald finds abundant life in prison. He attends seminary. He finds forgiveness. He's going to tell us about that. All of this within the context of a life sentence. His motto gives me chills: “Don't tell me what God can't do.” It's the heartbeat behind this riveting story. It's a firsthand example of God's power to transform individuals, families, communities to this day. KEY TAKEAWAYS - Emphasizing the positive impact of rehabilitation, Ronald shares his journey from imprisonment to becoming the director of chaplaincy at the Mississippi State Penitentiary and his work with the Louisiana Parole Project, advocating for the reentry of long-term prisoners into society. - Olivier speaks about his coming to faith, the complete turnaround in prison, leading to his release and eventual parole, marking a turning point in his journey and a testament to the transformative power of God's grace. - Sharing about his book "27 Summers", Ronald Olivier's story touches global audiences, shedding light on the unjust conditions of the justice system and offering hope that trusting in God can bring about unfathomable change in the most challenging circumstances. MORE ABOUT RONALD OLIVIER Ronald Olivier served twenty-seven summers in the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary, known as Angola. He was released in 2018, and became a client of the Louisiana Parole Project. In 2020, less than two years after leaving Angola, Ronald was hired as the director of chaplaincy at the Mississippi State Penitentiary. In 2023 Ronald returned to the Louisiana Parole Project as a client advocate, using his experience to guide other formerly incarcerated people toward successful careers and lives. He lives in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, with his wife and son. MORE ABOUT 27 SUMMERS In one of America's most notorious prisons, a young man sentenced to life without parole miraculously found faith, forgiveness, redemption, and restoration. In 27 Summers, Ronald Olivier shares his dramatic and powerful story and offers proof that God can bring healing and hope to even the darkest circumstances. As a teenager Ronald Olivier ran wild in the streets of New Orleans, selling drugs, stealing cars, and finally killing someone on what was supposed to be the happiest day of the year--Christmas Day. Facing the consequences of his crime, he remembered what his mother once said. "Baby, if you ever have real trouble, the kind that I can't get you out of, you can always call on Jesus." So he did. Ronnie was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Through the agony of solitary confinement and multiple transfers into increasingly dangerous prison environments, Ron kept seeking God for healing and hope. Finally, after being locked up for twenty-seven summers at the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary--known as Angola--Ronald was miraculously released. Remarkably, he became the director of chaplains at Mississippi State Penitentiary. Today, he loves to combat hopelessness, wherever he finds it, by saying, "Don't tell me what God can't do!” Through his book, he invites you to - learn new insights about faith and patience from a man who spent almost three decades in a cruel and violent environment; - be encouraged, like Ron, to find grace and forgiveness to overcome the pain of their past; and - find hope that God can redeem and restore anyone. Ronald's fascinating story brilliantly displays God's power to transform individuals, families, and communities, reminding us that there truly is nothing God can't do. REVIEWS 27 Summers is an incredible journey into the power of redemption. Ronald Olivier's story takes us on a rollercoaster from his wild youth in the streets of New Orleans to the Louisiana State Penitentiary, where he finds salvation and solace through faith in God. This book is an inspiring tale that shows how even in our darkest moments, we can find hope, peace, and freedom if we choose to turn to God. Ronald is a great example to others that anyone seeking God and redemption can find his way out of the pits of hell-- from a life of crime and prison-- and into a life of helping others. 27 Summers is a must- read. -- Commissioner Burl Cain, Mississippi Department of Corrections Gritty, terrifying yet truly uplifting! -- Bear Grylls, adventurer and author of Never Give Up and Mud, Sweat, and Tears I first met Ronald Olivier in prison. An experience I thought I would never take part in. Since meeting Ronald and learning about his story, I've wanted nothing more than for the world to hear it and meet the man who inspired me. 27 Summers will change your perspective on life, faith, and love. Ronald did that for me. His story will do the same for you. I can't wait for you to read about Ronald and learn what I learned: that change is not only possible but also probable when you encounter Jesus. Thank you Slim, for sharing your story with the world. We need it. -- Sam Acho, author, speaker, and ESPN analyst Ronnie Slim is a living testimony to God's redemptive power. In the depths of one of America's most notorious prisons, he discovered unimaginable healing, hope, and God's purpose for his life. 27 Summers tells the story of God's abounding love, proving that even in the darkest of circumstances, He is with us and provides a way out. -- Len Vanden Bos, chaplain for the Buffalo Bills This inspiring, powerful, and important memoir is so timely as we continue to reckon with decades of over- incarceration and excessive punishment. Ron Olivier makes redemption accessible to us all. -- Bryan Stevenson, author of Just Mercy This inviting, encouraging, and inspiring book is the read you've been wait-ing for! Ronald Olivier's journey of flaws and failures led to a life of faith and unusual triumph. 27 Summers beckons you to step behind prison walls with Ronnie and experience freedom born of God's grace and mercy, proof that He never counts anyone out. -- Dr. Leslie Draper III, board certified senior clinical chaplain and mayor of Simmesport, Louisiana This is one of the most compelling comeback stories you will ever read. It will hold your attention on every page-- and ultimately lead you to your knees in wonder, love, and praise. Hugely recommended! -- Matt Redman, GRAMMY Award– winning worship leader and songwriter and author Support us on Other, PayPal and Other!
Ronald Olivier, a former inmate serving a life sentence in the notorious Angola Prison in Louisiana, shares his powerful story of redemption, which is the subject of his newly published book, 27 Summers.
What if you could find hope, inspiration, and transformation in the darkest corners of life? That's exactly what my guest today has achieved, even when it seemed like all the odds were stacked against him. We kick off by sharing the incredible journey of Ronald Olivier, author of "27 Summers: My Journey to Freedom, Forgiveness, and Redemption During My Time in Angola Prison." Ronald's firm belief in the power of faith and his unwavering motto, "Don't tell me what God can't do," will leave you inspired.We wrap up with an exploration of the 2012 law change on mandatory life sentences for juveniles in the US. This change had a profound impact on many young lives, including that of Olivier, who was convicted of murder. His journey back to court for re-sentencing and the emotional meeting with the victim's mother is a testament to the power of forgiveness. From in-depth discussions on faith, redemption, and transformation to heartrending stories of forgiveness, this episode promises to touch your heart and soul.Purchased book Here: 27 SummersFollow Danny @ https://dannybjr.substack.com/#BuildingAvillage #America The Violent
In this compelling episode, we sit down with Ronald Oliver, who not only survived 27 summers in Angola prison but also emerged from the experience with a profound faith in God. As Ronald shares his extraordinary journey, he emphasizes the crucial role that trust in God played in navigating the challenges of incarceration. His unwavering faith is a beacon of hope, illustrating that even in the darkest moments, redemption and forgiveness are possible through a higher power. In addition to his own experiences, Ronald touches on the impact of parents in shaping the lives of their children. He reflects on the crucial role his own parents played in instilling values and resilience, underscoring the significance of parental guidance in molding the character of the next generation. Ronald's insights add a layer of depth to the conversation, highlighting the broader theme of familial influence on personal growth. Ronald's newly released book, "27 Summers: My Journey to Freedom, Forgiveness, and Redemption During My Time in Angola Prison," serves as a beacon of inspiration for anyone facing adversity. Join us for an unforgettable interview that explores the profound connections between faith, family, and personal transformation. This riveting episode not only underscores the incredible power of trusting in God but also emphasizes the pivotal role parents play in shaping the lives of their children. Don't miss out on this impactful conversation. Get his book BE LOVE do good is a part of the Christian Parenting Podcast Network. To find practical and spiritual guidance to help you grow into the perfectly imperfect parent you want to be, visit www.ChristianParenting.org
In one of America's most notorious prisons, a young man sentenced to life without parole miraculously found faith, forgiveness, redemption, and restoration. In 27 Summers, Ronald Olivier shares his dramatic and powerful story and offers proof that God can bring healing and hope to even the darkest circumstances.As a teenager, Ronald Olivier ran wild in the streets of New Orleans, selling drugs, stealing cars, and finally killing someone on what was supposed to be the happiest day of the year—Christmas Day. Facing the consequences of his crime, he remembered what his mother once said. "Baby, if you ever have real trouble, the kind that I can't get you out of, you can always call on Jesus." So he did.Ron was sentenced to life in prison without parole. Through the agony of solitary confinement and multiple transfers into increasingly dangerous prison environments, Ron kept seeking God for healing and hope. Finally, after being locked up for twenty-seven summers at the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary—known as Angola—Ron was miraculously released. Remarkably, he became the director of chaplains at Mississippi State Penitentiary. Today, Ron loves to combat hopelessness, wherever he finds it, by saying, "Don't tell me what God can't do!” Become a member at https://plus.acast.com/s/unimpressedpodcast. https://plus.acast.com/s/unimpressedpodcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Malik Rahim, a former Black Panther and long-time prison and housing activist, joins Rattling the Bars to discuss the conditions faced by prisoners at the notorious Louisiana State Penitentiary, more commonly known as "Angola." Rahim also delves into the necessity of environmental justice in the face of a future where climate collapse and fascism will come hand-in-hand.Studio: Cameron Granadino, David HebdenPost-Production: Cameron GranadinoHelp us continue producing Rattling the Bars by following us and becoming a monthly sustainer: Donate: https://therealnews.com/donate-pod-rtbSign up for our newsletter: https://therealnews.com/nl-pod-rtbLike us on Facebook: https://facebook.com/therealnewsFollow us on Twitter: https://twitter.com/therealnews
Prison can be many things, especially transformational and inspiring. Ronald Olivier is the author of “27 Summers: My Journey to Freedom, Forgiveness and Redemption During My Time in Angola Prison”. He joins Tavis to share his story of running in the streets, being sent to Angola for life without parole and finding his way back home.
Have you ever witnessed a crime?As just a young teen, not only had Ronald Olivier witnessed crime, but he had been convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison. He was a product of a broken home, a crack epidemic, and a society that had turned its back on him. This harsh lifestyle ultimately resulted in Ronald killing another young man on Christmas day. In the absence of a father figure, he found guidance in unlikely places, proving that a helping hand can come from the most unexpected corners. From a haunted past to a transformative future, Ronald Olivier's story is one of remarkable redemption. He was serving a life sentence in Angola Prison, but he found his freedom in forgiveness and faith. Ronald narrates an emotional encounter with the mother of his victim, a moment that broke walls and built bridges. He stresses the importance of faith, urging listeners to remember God's endless grace. Get a glimpse of Ronald's inspiring journey in his new book, which is available on Amazon. Embrace the power of change, forgiveness, and second chances in this powerful episode.Episode Highlights: Introduction to Ronald.Where is Ronald today?Ronald's upbringing.His father, his hero.The crack epidemic.The day Ronald's life changed forever.Turning to Jesus.Sentenced to Louisiana State Penitentiary.The conviction of the Holy Spirit.Kids need a father figure.The people God placed in Ronald's life. Education and open doors.Mission work and pastoring a prison church.Breakthrough in the law.Speaking to the victim's mother.God's grace & goodness.Find More on Ronald:Follow Ronald on FacebookFind Ronald on Instagram @ronnieslim75Order 27 Summers Here!Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on A Force to Be Reckoned With:Jointheforce.usFollow us on Instagram @bethanyadkinsJoin our FREE Patreon!This show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
Wednesday, November 8, 2023 Another fine Wednesday show with our own Kerby Anderson hosting. In the first hour, he welcomes Ronald Olivier. A former Angola Prison inmate, Ronald is now a client advocate at that same prison. Ronald will share his book, 27 Summers, which releases today!! In the second hour, Kerby reviews the current events […]
A federal judge has ordered Louisiana officials to move kids out of a former death row unit at Angola, one of the nation's most notorious prisons. The ruling found that authorities at the facility had locked children up in cells for days at a time as a form of punishment, punished detained youth with the use of handcuffs, mace, and denial of family visits, and failed to provide appropriate educational and social services and mental health treatment. We are joined to discuss by Elizabeth Weill-Greenberg, a senior reporter for The Appeal, who has consistently investigated the treatment of child prisoners held at Angola. Elizabeth writes on prison and jail conditions, and wrongful convictions. Read Elizabeth Weill-Greenberg's coverage: https://theappeal.org/louisiana-judge-ruling-angola-prison-children/ —- Subscribe to this podcast: https://plinkhq.com/i/1637968343?to=page Get in touch: lawanddisorder@kpfa.org Follow us on socials @LawAndDis: https://twitter.com/LawAndDis; https://www.instagram.com/lawanddis/ The post Judge: Vacate Lousiana's Angola Prison of Children w/ Elizabeth Weill-Greenberg appeared first on KPFA.
A Georgia grand jury indicts Donald Trump. Recovery continues in Lahaina after deadly Maui wildfires. A federal court hears allegations of "harmful conditions" for juveniles jailed in Louisiana.Want more comprehensive analysis of the most important news of the day, plus a little fun? Subscribe to the Up First newsletter.Today's episode of Up First was edited by Susanna Capelouto, Kevin Drew, Ally Schweitzer, Benjamin Swasey, and Alice Woelfle. It was produced by Mansee Khurana, Claire Murashima, and Lilly Quiroz. Our technical director is Zac Coleman, with engineering support from Carleigh Strange.
The Angola Prison Rodeo is a rodeo hosted by a prison. Inmates participate in almost all of the activities, and the money raised goes to religious programming for the prison. They generate a surprising amount of income that is not always spent as intended. Learn more as hosted by Rachel Teichman, LMSW and Victor Varnado, KSN. Produced and hosted by Victor Varnado & Rachel Teichman Full Wikipedia article here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angola_Prison_Rodeo WE APPRECIATE YOUR SUPPORT ON PATREON!https://www.patreon.com/wikilistenpodcast Find us on social media! https://www.facebook.com/WikiListen Instagram @WikiListen Twitter @Wiki_Listen Get bonus content on Patreon Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Louisiana State Penitentiary, also known as Angola Prison, is the largest maximum-security adult prison in the US. Angola is the perfect symbol for the criminal legal system's ongoing legacy of racism. It's transformed from a slave plantation to a camp for mostly Black laborers exploited by convict leasing, all before becoming a prison. For over a century, Angola has been a site of human rights abuses, which continue to this day. This fall, a new chapter of horror began on its grounds: the detention of children in the same cell block that once held incarcerated people awaiting the death penalty. In August, the ACLU and partner organizations filed a class action suit, Alex A v. Edwards, seeking to block the transfer of children to Angola. The lawsuit is pending, and in October, the state began moving children as young as 14 into Angola, a move that violates state and federal laws. Here to talk to us about how we got here and how the ACLU and community partners are continuing to fight the avoidable and unconstitutional detention of children in Angola are Gina Womack, executive director and co-founder, Families and Friends of Louisiana's Incarcerated Children, and Tammie Gregg, Deputy Director of the ACLU's National Prison Project.
Description: In 2020, the authorities at the Louisiana State Penitentiary (better known as Angola, for the former plantation on which it stands) shut down a play in the middle of a performance. What happened in that audience of incarcerated men that got guards so concerned? That's the subject of “Angola Do You Hear Us? Voices From a Plantation Prison," (2023 Oscar Short-Listed) a new MTV documentary directed and edited by Cinque Northern (My Name is Pauli Murray) and produced by Catherine Gund. Award-winning actress and writer, Liza Jessie Peterson, (HBO's Def Poetry, Ava Duvernay's 13th), whose one-woman show was shut down that day, and Norris Henderson, a former inmate who'd worked with her to bring the show, join Laura to reflect on the intersection of art and politics, incarceration and economics, and the work of VOTE, the criminal justice reform group Henderson founded upon his release. What difference can a play make? Watch and see.The Laura Flanders Show is made possible by listeners like you! We do not take advertising or government funding. Please become a member today for as little as $3 a month. Patreon supporters receive early access to listen and download the full uncut conversation from our weekly show.Full research and reading list to further delve into the conversation is available at Patreon.com/theLFShow.
Our Patreon supporters receive early access to listen and download the full uncut conversation from our weekly episodes. Description: In 2020, the authorities at the Louisiana State Penitentiary (better known as Angola, for the former plantation on which it stands) shut down a play in the middle of a performance. What happened in that audience of incarcerated men that got guards so concerned? That's the subject of “Angola Do You Hear Us? Voices From a Plantation Prison," a new MTV documentary directed and edited by Cinque Northern (My Name is Pauli Murray) and produced by Catherine Gund. Award-winning actress and writer, Liza Jessie Peterson, (HBO's Def Poetry, Ava Duvernay's 13th), whose one-woman show was shut down that day, and Norris Henderson, a former inmate who'd worked with her to bring the show, join Laura to reflect on the intersection of art and politics, incarceration and economics, and the work of VOTE, the criminal justice reform group Henderson founded upon his release. What difference can a play make? Watch and see.Full research and reading list to further delve into the conversation is available here on Patreon.
After a statue of General Robert E. Lee came down in his hometown of New Orleans, Dr. Clint Smith began visiting sites like Monticello Plantation and Angola Prison to learn more about the ramifications of slavery in the United States today. It became the basis for his best-selling book, How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America. On this week's Disrupted, he joins us to talk about what he learned while researching the book. Smith is the recipient of the 2022 Stowe Prize and will be speaking at the Harriett Beecher Stowe Center on September 22, 2022. GUEST: Dr. Clint Smith: Staff writer for The Atlantic. Author of How the Word Is Passed: A Reckoning with the History of Slavery Across America and the poetry collection Counting Descent. This episode originally aired on September 21, 2022, and was produced by J. Carlisle Larsen, Kevin Chang Barnum and Catie Talarski. Disrupted is produced by Kevin Chang Barnum, Emily Charash and Catie Talarski. Disrupted is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, Stitcher, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Visiting Room Project is the largest collection of first person testimonials of people serving life sentences in prison, featuring the stories of men serving life in Angola Prison in Louisiana. Nearly 5000 people are sentenced to die in Louisiana prisons without the possibility of parole.
In 2020, the authorities at the Louisiana State Penitentiary (better known as Angola, for the former plantation on which it stands) shut down a play in the middle of a performance. What happened in that audience of incarcerated men that got guards so concerned? That's the subject of “Angola Do You Hear Us? Voices From a Plantation Prison," a new MTV documentary directed and edited by Cinque Northern (My Name is Pauli Murray) and produced by Catherine Gund. Award-winning actress and writer, Liza Jessie Peterson, (HBO's Def Poetry, Ava Duvernay's 13th), whose one-woman show was shut down that day, and Norris Henderson, a former inmate who'd worked with her to bring the show, join Laura to reflect on the intersection of art and politics, incarceration and economics, and the work of VOTE, the criminal justice reform group Henderson founded upon his release. What difference can a play make? Watch and see. Music Spotlight features “Hope” by Samora Pinderhughes featuring Elena Pinderhuges, Nio Norwood and Jehbreal Jackson from Pinderhuges' album Grief. The album is also part of The Healing Project a multi-disciplinary project created and developed by Samora Pinderhughes.“That moment when she started telling that story, people started reconciling with their own situations. Like, ‘Oh, she's talking about me. That was similar to my circumstance.' The bigger picture of the prison industrial complex, they got it. That this is a plantation by every definition of a plantation, you're working the field from sun up to sun down.” - Norris Henderson“The time I spent with the incarcerated adolescent boys at Rikers Island really ignited something in me . . . I couldn't understand why more artists were not ringing the alarm and screaming about this human rights crisis.” - Liza Jessie PetersonGuests:Norris Henderson: Founder & Executive Director, VOTE (Voice of the Experienced)Liza Jessie Peterson: Writer, Actress, Poet, Educator; Playwright & Performer, The Strange Patriot Help us kick off this holiday season with your good vibrations! Here at the Laura Flanders Show we rely on you, our hive of listeners, to buzz about the show! Hit the subscribe button for this podcast, if you haven't already, and if you're subscribed via apple podcasts, please rate us and write a review. Thanks in advance to all you busy bees for buzzing about the show and helping us grow! We are listener supported media, become a member today! https://Patreon.com/theLFShow