In the vast chessboard of incarceration, each of us plays a role: pawns of conflict in the grand scheme of things. As pawns we’re seemingly insignificant, pieces who hold less influence, less agency, less existence. As incarcerates we’re easily interchangeable and maneuvered to serve the systems interests. Similarly, formerly incarcerated individuals in society often find themselves sacrificial lambs to civil death, with addition of white idealization and hostility. In this Interim, we explore the experience of being a pawn of conflict from a carceral point of view, shedding light on the challenges, opportunities, and the potential for empowerment that comes with this role.
Embracing the Role
Like pawns on a chessboard, the judicial system assigns the role in form of a conviction to individuals based on their crime, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. While being a pawn can feel restrictive, it’s essential to understand that every piece has a purpose. Embracing this role allows us to gain a deeper understanding of carceral logic, systemic racism, and social dynamic to work towards change from within.
Limited Freedom
Pawns are known for their limited range of movement, often confined to a narrow path. Individuals within the carceral system are restricted from societal norms and expectation. It’s crucial to recognize these limitations while also seeking ways to challenge and overcome them. By doing so, we can expand our sphere of influence and create a powerful intellectual infrastructure to gain momentum within the system. But we must understand: just because the system is controlled by mostly Blacks or other ethnicities doesn’t mean they’re advocates. In fact they massage the conflict.
A Force for Change
Despite our limitations and mobility, we can play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome of this carceral game. Our subordinate positions can influence change. By leveraging our knowledge of one of the pillars of white supremacy, we can challenge the existing power structure by actively pursuing justice for Black prisoners and contribute to positive social transformation.
The Power of Unity
We are more effective when we work together, advancing as a collective force. In society, collaboration and solidarity among individuals facing similar challenges amplify our impact. History and the present show if Blacks unify we become a threat to the white power structure. It eliminates the competition in terms of us being consumers to conflict, and put us in a position to for just equity. We can challenge the carceral system, demand equality, and create a more just outcome.
Empowerment Through Education
We can transform into more powerful pieces, education plays a significant role in empowering Black incarcerates. Knowledge equips us with the tools to understand the complexities of white supremacy, recognize our worth, and advocate for change. By continuously learning and sharing knowledge, we can evolve into formidable forces in changing white power structures.
Resilience in the Face of Adversity
We often face the brunt of attacks from our own, that is, those of our own race tend to sacrifice their identity for validation and acceptance to be a part or thrive with whites. Even though we face this ongoing flow of adversity, discrimination, and setbacks, however, resilience and determination can help us rise above challenges, learn from setbacks, and continue striving for progress.
The Next Step
Being pawns of conflict is insignificant with limitations, but it’s important to recognize the potential for empowerment and change inherent in this role. By understanding our value as Black people, unifying, seeking education, and embracing resilience, we can challenge the oppressive carceral system, actively advocate for equity, and redefine the Black reality in our own terms. Remember, even as pawns of conflict, we possess the power to shape the carceral game and society by contributing to a Black intellectual approach to recalibrate white society.
