A Crucial Voice
On July 9th Mrs. Lanette Eggleston and her Out of the Box Productions came to Grafton Correctional Institution and along with the participation of the incarcerated population delivered a powerful theatrical performance entitled “When Love Hurts†that shed light on the pervasive issue of domestic violence. Domestic violence affects individuals from all walks of life, including us who are incarcerated, and as the creator of Moving F.A.S.T I believe it is essential to recognize the importance of involving incarcerated men and women in raising awareness and supporting initiatives against domestic violence. By including the voices of incarcerated individuals, Queen Lanette has demonstrated the need and ability to foster a more comprehensive understanding of the issue and work against violence and abuse.
Domestic violence knows no boundaries and can occur in any relationship, regardless of socioeconomic status, gender, or background. As an incarcerated man, often marginalized and forgotten by society as a whole, we are not exempt from the devastating effects of domestic violence due to the fact that many incarcerated men and women have experienced or witnessed domestic violence in our own lives leading to a cycle of violence and trauma which can enrich the discourse surrounding domestic violence awareness and prevention. Our firsthand experiences can offer valuable insights into the underlying causes, dynamics, and very real consequences of abusive relationships. By including our voices, a more comprehensive understanding of the complex factors contributing to domestic violence can be gained.
Queen Lanette’s engagement with incarcerated individuals contributes to our rehabilitation and personal growth to a degree unreached by those occupationally tasked to do so. By attending her awareness campaign allowed me and the other men to reflect on our own experience, understand the consequence of our actions, and develop empathy for survivors. She is helping to break down the stigma and prejudices associated with being incarcerated. That is how we can contribute positively to society upon release, break the cycles of violence that may have trapped us in the past, while promoting a sense of accountability and responsibility with past actions. Performance art, discussions, and workshops confronts the harmful beliefs and behaviors that perpetuate violence. Like Lanette, shouldn’t we all be challenging the societal norms and contribute to the broader efforts of preventing domestic violence, and violence in general?
As a united front of love Coach Marty and Queen Lanette recognizes our capacity for change and continues to create opportunities for us to make amends by building bridges of understanding and compassion. This positive impact can shift public awareness and produce a more inclusive and supportive society for all.
I applaud Lanette and Out of the Box Productions for including incarcerated individuals in the performance and audience. Our experiences and voices provide unique insights, and provide a deeper understanding on the issue of domestic violence and work towards effective solutions. Involving us in her awareness campaign and support initiative, she has empowered us to become agents of change, breaking the cycle of violence and fostering rehabilitation. Our consistent involvement is important, and ensures that all people, regardless of their circumstances, have a voice, a crucial voice, in creating a safer, more compassionate society for everyone.
As Lanette emphasizes, this starts with 1 Protector and a 1000% daily value of Support, Strength, Courage, Believe, Fight, Ambition, and Confidence.
To live for the people.
Founder & CEO of the Tranquil Earth Alliance
