My name is Wilbert Sanders, known as ‘Jazz the Poet,’ with a piece I call “The Invisible Man.”
As I anticipate and impatiently wait
To be discharged from these walls of hate,
There are many issues which concern me,
Such as a rare case of invisibility.
As best I can, in ways you’ll understand,
I’ll explain how I became the Invisible Man.
After being convicted for an unlawful crime,
Sentenced and transported for an abundance of time,
Immediately stripped of my identity.
I’m now known as “KN-1543.”
This house of horrors I’ve been sent
Is financially funded by the U.S. government.
I’m not insane or mentally dense.
I’m intelligent and have common sense.
Not saying I disappear or walk through doors,
My invisibility is used as a metaphor,
Expressing how those who hold authority
Refuse to recognize me
As a member of humanity.
Inside this facility where evil racists rule,
I’m underfed and work like a mule.
Their tactics consist of isolation and neglect,
Creating long-lasting psychological effects.
I must also convince other evil men
To allow me to receive freedom again.
I’ve experienced a problem like this before,
Being locked away behind these still doors,
Judged by a jury of my so-called peers,
Although not one Black jurist was there.
Allow me to move forward once I’m released
From inside the belly of the beast.
Being a convict, marked with a felony,
Employers will be reluctant to hire me,
Strategically forcing me to live in poverty.
Comprehend this, now, connect the dots.
It’s a long term and vicious plot.
If I can’t work and provide for family,
I’m forced to engage in criminal activity,
With the parole board waiting for me.
My opinions and views aren’t meant to confuse,
Just be aware of the decisions you choose.
Be mindful of everything you do,
Or you can become invisible too.
As Wilbert Sanders, as ‘Jazz the Poet,’ and I’m at FCI McKean in Bradford, Pennsylvania. Thank you.
These commentaries are recorded by Noel Hanrahan of Prison Radio.
