Prison Journalism: My path to freedom

Prison Journalism: My path to freedomLincoln Raker was incarcerated at Pollsmoor prison from 2013 until 2016 and participated in the restorative justice programme while serving his time.

by Lincoln Raker

20-12-2023 16:29

in Prison Journalism

Prisoner. Image by Pexels/RDNE Stock project

Being part of the number is distinct from a normal lifestyle. The reason I say this is that the number instils belief in something or someone unfamiliar, yet through understanding it, you realize that you start to believe and integrate it into your daily life.

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Yes, Just a Story At first, it seems surreal, almost like a fairy tale. For instance, as a child, when you lose a tooth, your mother tells you to place it under your pillow for the tooth fairy, who supposedly exchanges it for money. In reality, it's your parents who replace the tooth with money, leading you to grow up believing in this fairy tale.

During the years I was part of the number, I did extensive research but couldn't find satisfying answers or a deeper understanding of it. It seems the number has no limits, and despite my knowledge gained in prison and on the streets, there are still unanswered questions. However, had I continued to believe in the number, I would have accepted everything I was told. Now, looking at it from a different perspective, I at least see some truth in my understanding of it.

To Exit the Gang Leaving the gang was a necessity, as I realized I wasn't living life rightly. Exiting isn't as simple as one might think. It involves numerous protocols and meetings. Especially as one of the top members, it's challenging to explain your departure to those who still believe in the number.

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ALSO READ: Prison journalism: Challenges in South African Prisons

Fear at Last The stark reality is that you're never entirely free from the gang. They keep an eye on you, waiting for you to fail. However, not everyone ends up failing.

I can only thank God for His protection. Without the Lord's plans for me, I'm unsure where I'd be today. Despite being in a gang, my faith in Christ kept me strong. It wasn't easy, but I persevered and am proud of my journey, giving all praise and glory to Jesus Christ.

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Failing Yourself and Others Exiting the gang is challenging, and staying on the right path is difficult. If you're caught doing something wrong, like using drugs, it's easy for others to criticize without understanding the struggle and sacrifice it took to reach this point.

ALSO READ: Prison Journalism: From isolation to family

DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received

RESTORE is an NGO based in Cape Town, South Africa, providing inmates at Pollsmoor Prison with restorative justice opportunities.

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