

#2353 - Shaka Senghor
89 snips Jul 22, 2025
Shaka Senghor, a writer and resilience expert who served 19 years in prison for murder, shares his powerful journey from incarceration to advocacy. He discusses the trauma of growing up in a violent environment and the harrowing realities of prison life, including solitary confinement and escape attempts. Shaka emphasizes the role of writing and creativity in healing, highlights the importance of second chances, and sheds light on the systemic issues of wrongful incarceration. His insights on gratitude and resilience illuminate pathways to personal growth and redemption.
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Shaka's Early Life and Conviction
- Shaka Senghor grew up in Detroit, excelled academically, but faced abuse and street violence early on.
- He was shot multiple times as a teen and later convicted of second-degree murder at 19, serving 19 years in prison.
County Jail and Sentencing Experience
- Senghor describes county jail and attempts to escape using sheets to open doors.
- He was sentenced at 19 to 17 to 40 years, thinking his life was over.
Life in Solitary Confinement
- Senghor served 19 years including 7 years in solitary, describing it as barbaric and chaotic.
- Prisoners made weapons and waged wars even in isolation, where conditions were brutal.