While We Were Away Prison Creative Arts Project (PCAP)

In this episode, Rick talks shop about prison politics, policies, and justice. He explores an ostracized childhood full of art and culture, and what it means to him to have raised himself out of childhood while inside, He shows us the anxiety of reentry and strategies that can help in becoming: your own therapist, your […]

In this episode, Scary discusses the small, strange privileges of returning home, from attending a funeral to being able to lock a door. He builds an argument for his zen mentality, pointing out that there is little in the world outside that is as upsetting as life inside prison. Finally, he grapples with some of […]

In this episode, AyLaina describes the miracle of her family, past and present, and gives advice on how to hold down and advance in a job. She journeys through the multiple roles she has held as a woman, mother, daredevil, poet, wife, and formerly incarcerated person. Each has come with particular stigmas, and their intersection […]

In this episode, Kevin’s ambition and positive outlook shines. He talks about his lowest points, experiencing homelessness and working four jobs in a strange city. These experiences strongly informed Kevin’s entrepreneurial spirit. He walks us through his upbringing, from his fraught relationship with his parents to his struggles with ADD. Cycling in and out of […]

In this episode, Hazelette tells stories of her daughter’s adoption and the life she’s been able to lead since coming home over 30 years ago. Every decision was guided by her God, and it has led her to great joy; Hazelette talks about her passion for spiritual music and her identity as a singer, and […]

In this episode, Alan shares his love for art with his Anishinaabe community. He describes his various encounters with the police since coming home, and talks about the joys of tinkering with his new house. A master of all trades, Alan weaves his time inside, the native community, children, his dog and the police together […]