New Underground Railroad: Freedom from Imprisonment | Carlos Christian | TEDxKingLincolnBronzevillle

Something has to be done with over two million people incarcerated In the United States. Carlos Christian birthed the idea of a collaborative effort to address the modern-day slavery of incarceration not only to reduce recidivism but the overall prison population. At age 13, Carlos Christian became involved in the drug trade –
eventually leading to a 10-year prison sentence. He was incarcerated at the Marion Correctional Institution in Marion, Ohio from age 19 to 29. During his sentence, Mr. Christian dedicated himself to his rehabilitation and becoming a positive role model. Upon his release, Mr. Christian had support from his friends, family, and a case manager. After he obtained employment; Mr. Christian relocated from Cleveland to Columbus, where he became a homeowner, gained custody of his son, and began to mentor currently incarcerated individuals in penitentiaries and county jails. Mr. Christian founded The Starts Within Organization (SWO) in 2011 because of his determination to help currently incarcerated men build the same solid foundation – pre- and post-release – that he was able to build. Christian is the published author of 3 books that serves as a tool for those seeking to overcome prison. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx