On a recent Hard Knock Radio episode, Davey D hosted a powerful conversation about systemic prison abuse. The discussion centered on Robert Brooks’ death at Marcy Correctional Facility in New York. Experts included Bishop Dwight Fowler, Student Minister Kenneth Muhammad, Van Smith Jr., Ted Adams, and Marcus Higdon.
The Death of Robert Brooks: A Public Lynching
Davey D began by addressing disturbing footage showing 13 correctional officers and a male nurse beating Robert Brooks, who died. He compared the lack of outcry over Brooks’ death with the swift action in cases involving wealthy individuals. Davey emphasized the stark contrast in responses to the death of a black man in prison. He highlighted the unequal justice system at play.
Bishop Dwight Fowler, active in Rochester, New York, shared insights on how incarcerated black men are treated. He highlighted a pervasive culture in prisons that encourages abuse of people of color, rooted in slavery’s legacy. Fowler noted that although New York’s Attorney General Letitia James and Governor Kathy Hochul expressed outrage, no arrests were made at the time.
The Nationwide Scope of Prison Brutality
Student Minister Kenneth Muhammad explained that prison violence is systemic. He stressed that Robert Brooks’ death reflects a broader culture of abuse. This culture often operates with impunity in correctional facilities. He noted that the violence against incarcerated black men has deep historical roots. These roots are tied to the country’s legacy of slavery. Muhammad connected this to ongoing abuse of black bodies in the prison system.
Van Smith Jr. of the Men’s Recovery Project shared his personal experience with prison brutality. He recalled facing similar violence while incarcerated. Smith reflected on the emotional toll of witnessing Robert Brooks’ killing. He connected this trauma to the pain many in the black community face. This includes both victims and witnesses of systemic violence. Smith emphasized the importance of healing circles for those impacted by trauma. This includes those incarcerated and their families.
Healing and Moving Forward
The group also discussed potential solutions, with Ted Adams speaking on trauma-informed care. He stressed the need for safe spaces for men to talk about their trauma and experiences, acknowledging the deep psychological wounds inflicted by such systemic abuse. The conversation focused not only on the need for accountability within correctional facilities but also on the importance of addressing the emotional and mental health needs of both those inside and outside of the system.
Van Smith echoed the sentiment of healing, noting that while it is important to seek justice for Robert Brooks, there needs to be a broader focus on helping those currently incarcerated who live in constant fear of abuse. He called for support for those re-entering society and for the creation of programs that provide healing and recovery for individuals impacted by trauma from their time in prison.
A Call for Accountability and Change
The panelists discussed the systemic nature of prison brutality and the need for change at institutional and societal levels. They pointed to powerful prison guard unions as an obstacle. These unions often protect guards from accountability. Marcus Higdon highlighted the hypocrisy of a justice system. It protects violent correctional officers but demonizes incarcerated black and brown men.
The discussion closed with a call to action, urging individuals and communities to take a stand against injustice and work towards systemic change. Student Minister Kenneth Muhammad emphasized that black men need to unite and become protectors of their communities, while Van Smith and Ted Adams stressed the importance of continued dialogue, education, and healing to break the cycle of trauma and abuse.
The episode was a profound reminder of the importance of addressing the roots of systemic abuse, supporting those affected by trauma, and working towards justice for all people, particularly marginalized communities who continue to face dehumanization within the criminal justice system.
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm, Monday-Friday 4-5 pm). Hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson, the show provides insightful discussions on music, culture, and social issues. KPFA is a community radio station without corporate underwriting.
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