To my Designed Conviction family, because that’s what it’s called when we come together as one for a common goal. I would like to say “Thank you “, for this opportunity at being a part of the team, as an inside contributor; it was unexpected but well received and appreciated with honors.
To all contributors and participants, my name is (Stephen Charles Reed), I´m 53 years of age, from Los Angeles CA. I’m currently serving time at Salinas Valley State Prison in Soledad, CA.
As an up and coming artist, poetry has given me a release and sense of self that I never would have found possible otherwise; it has connected me to people who can make a difference in my life, thus giving me the opportunity to make a difference in the world.
I don´t believe an artist is confined to one genre but (embraces all) being given this platform to highlight my talents as a writer/poet, I hope to contribute powerful and meaningful messages that inspire and encourage up and coming artists like myself.
Art is about community and the positive changes that come from within, rather than in prison or society. I hope to shed some light on the negative stereotype that has been placed on our incarcerated men, women and children.
In California we´re changing the narrative with positive productive work in our self-groups, through our educational programs and religious services. The California prison system is flawed, it’s rehabilitative efforts is slow and outdated and as a collective unit here at Salina Valley State Prison, we prisoners are networking with each other bringing awareness to an unjust rehabilitation system, while showing society that reform is possible even if it’s through our own valiant efforts.
Thank you for your time and patience and I hope to live up to the billing.

Sincerely,
Stephen Reed T.50067
S.V.S.P. C2-128L
P.O. Box 1050
Soledad, CA 93960