Stanley Tookie Williams III (1953-2005) was a leader of the Crips, an infamous gang that began in Los Angeles in 1969. He spent much of his life in prison. Today, he is well known for the writing that he did while in jail, which included anti-gang activist literature and children's books. When he was executed in 2005, his death sparked controversy surrounding the death penalty.
Pair “Stanley Williams” with “‘I Am Not An Inmate ... I Am A Man. And I Have Potential’” and ask students to think about how Williams’ story advances the idea that people who have become caught up in lives of crime can redeem themselves and truly change themselves for the better. What forces assist people who have struggled with legal issues in their efforts to better themselves and become contributing members of society? What barriers exist for them? Should we as a society forgive people who have committed horrific crimes, provided they eventually repent and improve themselves? Under what conditions or circumstances would such forgiveness be acceptable?
