The Context of Creative Programs in Correctional Facilities

Human beings express themselves creatively and respond to creativity. This is one of the defining characteristics of personhood, and it is a manifestation of the image of God in mankind. We are aware that there are good reasons for being sentenced to prison, but a prison sentence does not take away the basic essence of what every human being is. Prison is however, a dehumanizing environment.

The reality is that nearly half of the inmates in a prison never have a visit from family or friends during their stay behind bars. It is also true that nationwide we have a correctional system that is understaffed and over-populated. This further contributes to the dehumanizing nature of incarceration as the staff is by necessity focused on safety and security. At times, inmates do not have access to programming because of insufficient staff resources, further hindering the mission of a correctional institution: to help individuals find healthier ways to do life and re-enter society in meaningful and productive pursuits.

To bring music into this lonely environment is like water in the desert. The three areas of programming that we offer through Blues Behind Bars meet a need for mentoring, role modeling, and a hopeful vision for a future life that is difficult for prison staff to provide. At even the most basic level, the fact that somebody cared enough to come and visit, let alone brought music into the prison, provides emotional uplift. At the highest level, we see some people find a new sense of life and hope as a result of presenting the invitation to turn to Jesus Christ in our concerts, workshops, and worship services.