I created this piece back when I was in Fishkill Correctional Facility. I had just stepped off the cliff of the patriarchy, and onto the threshold of redemption. That's when I realized that this is going to hurt. But making amends, apologizing and becoming my best self was worth the burn I was going to feel walking through hell to get to the stage of restorative justice. I've been in hell my entire bid, and everyday I can hear folk calling for the fire to get hotter and the flames to flick longer. I know in their minds they wanted the worst for me because I hurt them. On the other hand, what they wouldn't know is that the only way back for me from the worst thing I have ever done is through hell. And yes, I'm still here. My only protection against the burn these days is feminism and my community.
This artwork is currently in Australia as part of the exhibition Paperchained International
