Re-Entry Fund for Mwalimu Shakur

Introduction

My name is Terrance White, also known as Mwalimu Shakur. I was recently released from Corcoran State Prison after serving about 20 years. I was in solitary confinement for most of that time—placed there solely due to my political associations with other conscious New Afrikans. While in solitary, around 2016, I co-founded the Oakland chapter of the Incarcerated Workers Organizing Committee.

After being released into general population in 2018, I was assaulted by a guard, which caused me to be blind in one eye. Around that same time, with other New Afrikans, I helped establish “liberation schools” throughout the California prison system to address the lack of quality programming and the absence of vocational and college programs.

Re-entering society has been a struggle, emotionally and financially. It is a new world, and not easy to get adjusted to. I have PTSD as well as low blood platelets, but I believe I'll be OK. And with the love and support of the community, I can continue the fight to win other people's freedom.

How Funds Will Be Used

I currently am a trainee, learning how to facilitate self-help groups, and I receive limited compensation for that work. I need financial support to find housing, to buy a vehicle, and to cover my other basic needs. Everything is really expensive now! I currently have to pay for my own public transportation costs. And I have some medical costs that are not covered by Medi-Cal.