With seemingly everyone accepting there is a crisis in our prison system that requires urgent attention, there is a recurring use of the term ‘rehabilitation’. Sadly there is no similar acceptance of a crisis in the ‘reformed’ probation service which has always had ‘rehabilitation’ as a core aim.
Prison reform is an issue that is central to my studies in law. It is also a campaign that Sergio Delavicci has taken on. Here is what he had to say on the issue.
Why are you passionate about speaking to prisoners?
I’m so passionate about speaking to prisoners because I believe I can be a positive influence in their life. Not too long ago I was facing similar consequences and I was able to turn my life around.
With you being a celebrity with a major role in Creed 2, what inspired you to want to speak to prisoners?
Even though I don’t necessarily consider myself an average person, I don’t consider myself a celebrity as well. I rather be known as someone who made something from nothing and was able to make a difference in the lives of other people. What inspired me to speak to prisoners is the fact that I can relate, have the voice and the ability to impact them in a positive way.
For those who are facing prison time what advice would you share with them?
For those who are facing prison time, the advice I would give them is don’t give up. There’s a reason why they’re in the situation they are in but there is also a lesson to be learned from it. If you’re truly innocent then study the law and hire a good lawyer if possible. There is a high percentage of people who are wrongfully convicted in this country.
What kind of change/reform would you like to see happen in the United States prison system?
The change I would like to see happen in the United States prison system is better and fair treatment.
Many of those who are currently incarcerated look up to you as a role model, what message would you like to share with them?
The message I would like to share with those who are currently incarcerated and look up to me is to manage your time wisely until you’re released. Don’t allow any negative thoughts to consume you and stay away from negativity and conflicts behind the wall. Keep yourself busy and occupied at all times (read books, write what’s on your mind, work out, get a job, speak to someone who’s about making a positive change in their life, learn to like yourself) If you’re facing life, continue praying. Have God in your life at all times.
How has speaking at prisons impacted or changed your life?
Speaking at prisons has definitely impacted my life. It has brought me closer to the reality of life and allowed me to better understand that anything can happen to anyone.
When it comes to youth offenders/prisoners what advice would you share with them?
When it comes to young offenders, I would advise them to leave any negativity behind while they still can. The kind of choices they make today can change their entire life for the good or bad.
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