SYRACUSE, N.Y. — Robin Brownlee discovered a new sense of community and purpose after joining Unchained, a nonprofit focused on empowering formerly and currently incarcerated individuals. Invited to a meeting in June, she later enrolled in UnchainNY, a yearlong paid apprenticeship program designed to equip participants with community organizing skills. Four months into the program, Brownlee reports improved self-esteem and excitement for learning.
The program includes 15 hours of weekly training in political education and organizing skills, drawing participants from Unchained’s active members. Unchained also advocates for legislative reforms to reduce incarceration rates. Notably, they were instrumental in the 2022 Less is More Act, which aimed to address parole violations.
Unchained’s co-founder, Derek Singletary, developed the curriculum while incarcerated, integrating insights from sociology and Black literature. He emphasizes the importance of understanding how systemic influences shape decision-making. The curriculum covers the history of Black Americans, aiming to provide a comprehensive view of socio-political issues.
Program coordinator Shaneya Nyasia Simmelkjaer facilitates the political education aspect, focusing on community accountability without punitive measures. She also addresses literacy skills, recognizing education as a barrier for many participants.
UnchainNY differentiates itself by emphasizing empowerment rather than mere service. Co-founder Emily NaPier Singletary trains apprentices in nonprofit operations, aiming for them to gain practical advocacy skills.
Singletary hopes the program will expand and facilitate job placements in advocacy for graduates. For Brownlee, the program has been a healing journey, allowing her to connect with her community and share her poetry, including a piece dedicated to her late mother. She aspires to use her experiences to help others facing similar challenges.
Source: Central Current.