MEET THE TEAM

James Nelson was confined within the prison industrial complex at the age of 19.

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During his 29 years inside Soledad State Prison he actively participated in self-help groups like Life C.Y.C.L.E. and DPN’s Success Stories, where he became close with DPN Board Member Richard Edmond Vargas.

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Upon James’ release he immediately became involved in Dignity and Power Now, and quickly found himself working full-time as an organizer where he shares his story daily with other formerly incarcerated people.

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Having only been home for 2 years, James lost his mother to pancreatic cancer and his sister to domestic violence.

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Despite these numerous personal challenges, James provides DPN with lots of laughter and positivity and still feels strongly that it is his duty as a former gang member to help correct problems within Los Angeles’ communities.