Conversations with Tyler

Shaka Senghor on Incarceration, Identity, and the Gift of Literacy

Nov 20, 2019

In this engaging conversation, Shaka Senghor, author of *Writing My Wrongs*, shares his transformational journey from 19 years in prison to becoming a celebrated writer and leader. He discusses how literacy became his lifeline during seven years in solitary confinement. Shaka reflects on the challenges of reintegrating into society, the impact of technology, and the importance of empathy for those formerly incarcerated. He also dives into issues of racism, spiritual growth, and the necessity of systemic reform to combat recidivism.

01:00:24

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Episode guests

Shaka Senghor

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Episode notes

Intro

2min

Literature and Transformation in Solitary Confinement

18min

From Rebellion to Redemption

8min

Reentering a Transformed World: Technology and Social Dynamics

3min

Racism, Spirituality, and Leadership

17min

Breaking the Cycle: Reforming Recidivism and Reintegration

9min

Ethics of Silence and the Nature of Injustice

3min

How do you survive seven years in solitary confinement? The gift of literacy is what saved Shaka Senghor. Reading, journaling, academic study, and writing books was a way to structure and survive an inhumane, mentally toxic environment. And after 19 years in total behind bars, he was finally able to apply that gift and create employment for himself as a writer and organizational leader upon rejoining society.

Shaka joined Tyler to discuss his book Writing My Wrongs: Life, Death, and Redemption in an American Prison, what it was like to return to society not knowing the difference between the internet and a Word document, entrepreneurialism and humor in prison, the unexpected challenges formerly incarcerated people face upon release, his ideas for helping Detroit, what he connects with in Eastern philosophy, how he’s celebrating the upcoming anniversary of his tenth year of freedom, and more.

Read a full transcript enhanced with helpful links.

Recorded October 31st, 2019 Other ways to connect

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