The journey of a jailhouse lawyer
Hi, my name is Calvin, and I’m on a mission to help people in prison gain access to the courts.
I spent 28 and a half years in Louisiana prisons, wrongfully convicted of a crime I didn’t commit. At 19, I found myself in jail facing the death penalty. With no outside help coming, I began studying law in an effort to help myself. It was a daunting task—I had only a ninth-grade education and limited access to legal materials—but over time, I learned how to use my voice: first for myself, then for others.
During my time at the Louisiana State Penitentiary, also known as Angola, I spent two decades serving as a jailhouse lawyer. In this role, I helped incarcerated individuals gain access to the courts and taught a law class to empower others.
Since my release, I have continued to champion the rights of incarcerated people through my Light of Justice program, highlighting inequities in the post-conviction process and helping people on the inside advocate for themselves and each other.
Sharing my story
In my newsletter, I plan to share:
My personal archive of letters, photos, and case materials from my time in prison
Updates on my campaign to get copies of my forthcoming book, The Jailhouse Lawyer, into prisons and jails with Penguin Press
Stories to help us imagine ways we can create a safer and more just world
Join me in the conversation by commenting on my posts or finding me on Instagram and Facebook.
For inquiries about speaking engagements, contact inquiries@calvinduncan.com.
I look forward to staying in touch.
