Empowering incarcerated youths to write new chapters in their lives.
Free Minds uses the transformative tools of books, writing, and peacebuilding to create a community of support, assisting incarcerated and formerly incarcerated youths and adults to achieve their education, career, and life goals, write new chapters in their lives, and become powerful voices for change.
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Leslye Penelope Visits Women’s Book Club at the DC Jail
In December, the Free Minds Women’s Book Club (WBC) held at the DC Jail hosted a special guest, Leslye Penelope, author of The Monsters We Defy. Penelope is a Maryland native and accomplished writer with 14 published works. She brought her story to life for the women of the book club, sharing the magic and history behind The Monsters We Defy, a historical fantasy novel set in 1920s Washington, D.C.
Read More ... about this storyFeatured Poem
Lessons in Courage and Fear
In my life I have known courage–in facing against all odds
Nowadays courage is felt, but seldom seen
I’ve learned courage from trial and error
What courage tells me is you never know how much you have until you need it
Usually I listen to what my heart tells me
I wish more people would show courage against all injustices

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