Prison journalism: Forgotten Youth

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Forgotten youth,
Childish dreams and aspirations, 
Blind to the truth.

ALSO READ: Prison journalism: The feelings I hold for Nelson Mandela

Unaware of their potential,
Trading school yards for prison bars,
Forgotten youth.

The system robs the nation of the next generation
By lack of knowledge and education,
Blind to the truth.

ALSO READ: Prison Journalism: Life in Pollsmoor prison for the first time

Raised in broken homes, seeking love and affirmation,
Brainwashed by foolish gangs, racism, and hatred, 
Forgotten youth.

Prison politics, tattoos, scars, and prison yards,
Growing up in a cage, full of rage,
Blind to the truth.

ALSO READ: Prison life: The daily routine of an inmate at Pollsmoor

Willing now to get out and go home,
Finding balance, peace, and OK with being alone.
Don’t be blind to the truth,
The world has too many forgotten youth.

Written by RUDY RAYMOND CHAVEZ

Disclaimer: The views in this article are those of the author. Prison Journalism Project has verified the writer’s identity and basic facts such as the names of institutions mentioned.

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