You’re invited to join us for our annual Essay Presentation at the Oregon State Penitentiary in Salem, Oregon on August 25, 2016!
What is this essay presentation?
Each year the Oregon State Penitentiary invites outside visitors to participate in its annual 7th Step Essay Presentation, which our FCWC Writers Connection has organized for the past several years. Presenters pen an essay in advance that they in turn read to the inmates who are part of the 7th Step Foundation.
The goal of the 7th Step Foundation is: “To help prisoners change while they are in prison and successfully become law-abiding members of their communities upon their release.”
Why is this important?
This essay presentation is a yearly event that the inmates look forward to very much. We get to interact with the inmates and they remember us each year we return. It is impactful to both the inmates and to us, the visitors.
Do I have to submit an essay to participate?
You may attend the event, be a member of the audience and not read an essay. Most who join us do pen an essay that they in turn read to the inmates, as that is what the evening is focused on.
What do I write about?
Consider one of the following topics related to the “reducing recidivism mission of 7th Step”:
- Re-entry into society
- Does rehabilitation work?
- Second Chance — What do you consider it to be?
Any other topic that seems interesting and appropriate to a presenter is fine as well. The best received essays are those based upon our personal life stories. A narrative.
Essays are to be 5-7 minutes long, max. The inmates award honors to each attendee. This is a huge deal to them.
Where and when is this?
This year’s Oregon State Pen Essay Presentation is Thursday, August 25, 2016 at 5:30 p.m. at the Oregon State Penitentiary, located at 2605 State St, Salem, OR 97310. Members of our group who are traveling from the Portland area carpool together, leaving at 4:15 pm, while others have met us at the OSP.
What do I wear?
Please note that you are not allowed to wear blue shirts or denim pants or jeans. Women need to dress conservatively (their instructions to us!). Open-toed shoes are allowed.
How do I participate?
In order to participate, you will need your:
- Full name (include middle name),
- Date of birth
- Drivers license number (with the state it is registered in)
Email Cornelia Seigneur at cornelia@corneliaseigneur.com with this information and/or questions by August 10 if you’re interested in participating!