J. Young

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Biography

J. Young is a writer, a college student, an organizer and a mentor. Since middle school, he knew he wanted to be a writer, and dreamed of going to a creative arts high school like Tupac. That dream never came to pass, as J. dropped out of school, and at 19 was incarcerated and sentenced to life without the possibility of parole. He was lost, overcome by hopelessness, resentment and shame. He grappled with how to serve a sentence that never ends, and lasts even after he dies. 18 years later, J. finds his journey has given him courage and wisdom in ways that he never thought possible, and a drive to want to survive. Only after being incarcerated, did he finally graduate with his GED. Months and years in solitary confinement stimulated his passion for writing, a tool he often uses to cope with emotions and trauma. 

J. writes, poetry, songs, short-stories and articles and one day hopes to write a full length book. His work focuses on his childhood, life experiences, incarceration, and current events. Recently, he has collaborated with theater company Voices Unbarred to have his work performed in two performances, and looks forward to the opportunity to collaborate and be published on other platforms. 

Outside of his writing, J. is currently pursuing his undergraduate degree. Additionally, he co-founded a statewide coalition focused on passing second look legislation to allow people like him to demonstrate their rehabilitation after serving decades of incarceration. His family keeps him grounded, and hopeful for the future. 

When he dreams of coming home, J. envisions simply being able to step outside on his porch in the middle of the night and breathe the fresh air.-

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