Table 3 Examples of quotes pertaining to the 6 conceptual themes
Advocacy and Support | “I use this pain to fuel my knowledge base and to become more committed to the cause of creating a human rights movement that Dr. Michelle Alexander envisions. It’s really not about ending prisons for public safety or to reduce costs, it’s about the deliverance of a nation. I have spoken on these themes throughout this certification.” Michelle |
Empathy Relating to CHWs’ History of Incarceration | “As I view our stories I reflect on our circle at the time. Most of us did not know what to expect, but once we started sharing our experiences we understood how much the experience would impact our lives forever. It was an emotional healing experience. It was raw and uncut also.” Mona |
Giving Back | “To become a true advocate, I must feel the pain, the frustration of the inequities still faced by so many of us, including women, to stay the course. Internal reflection brings on, for me, a true meaning of doing that right thing, for the right reason. When I speak or have spoken on my commitment to the movement, how I am and want to continue to be a part of what Dr. King started.” Michelle |
Professional Satisfaction and Responsibilities | “I know I need to find a balance for myself in this area, and practicing the skills that I have learned this week, and that I am learning from this course, will assist me in my goal of becoming a better CHW and a better person overall.” Michael |
Resiliency and Educational Advancement | “What it means to be a true re-entry CHW is to meet people where they are at, in their time of need, when they need us the most. And to help navigate, motivate, and advocate…” Sarah |
Social and Racial Injustices | “I think it persists because of the mentality of those that are in a position to change the policies. The mentality would need to change from furthering the punishment of being incarcerated, to that of how [to] bring the rate of incarceration down.” Alexander |