Adena M'lynn's Voice

Let me introduce myself. I call myself Adena M'lynn – a survivor of childhood sexual trauma, an ex-convict, a psychiatric patient, and a person striving to liberate myself from the relentless nightmares that haunt my mind and compel me toward actions of devastation. I know I have talents that help keep me in a somewhat good state of mind, yet it never lasts. In my wake, like America, I  both create and destroy, leaving a trail of chaos, broken promises, lost friendships, and abandoned relationships that reverberate through my entire life. I have had a constant life of self-harm in ways most people would never think a person could do to themselves. Before I jump into deep water, I wish to clarify that I don't claim expertise in resolving the intricate challenges that afflict our nation. Nevertheless, I've been a silent observer of the heartrending tragedies that infiltrate our schools, homes, workplaces, sporting venues, churches, and every intersection of human interaction....

by adena m’lynn My body was not my own Taken without consent Forced to endure the violence of his loin. My spirit battered and bent Too young to comprehend The evil he portends Stealing what wasn't his to take Leaving scars that forever ache He convinced me of his love,  Yet locked me in silence with every shove, Trapped in fear's cruel vice Fate was nothing more than a roll of the dice The pain he caused haunts me still  But I'm healing  Shedding shame that wasn't mine As I find my voice and say No more will he have power All secrets brought to light My spirit will now fly unbroken  I emerged from his blight.

In the quest for a more effective criminal justice system, the spotlight has increasingly focused on the potential of evidence-based rehabilitation programs. These initiatives are not just about treating or punishing criminal behavior; they represent a broader societal commitment to reducing recidivism by addressing the underlying causes of crime. Let’s explore the importance of such programs, outlines successful examples, and discusses the challenges and benefits associated with their implementation. The Importance of Rehabilitation Rehabilitation programs are crucial because they recognize that many individuals who enter the criminal justice system have histories of trauma, substance abuse, mental health issues, or lack of access to quality education and employment. Traditional punitive measures do little to address these underlying issues, often leading to high rates of recidivism. In contrast, evidence-based rehabilitation programs are designed to tackle the root causes of criminal...

The criminal justice system stands as a cornerstone of societal order, tasked with the dual responsibilities of safeguarding communities and ensuring justice for all. However, the growing consensus among policymakers, researchers, and activists is that the current system, especially its reliance on incarceration, necessitates reforms. Let’s look into the intricacies of the criminal justice system, spotlighting the pressing need for reform, rehabilitation efforts, and the undeniable influence of social and economic factors on crime rates and recidivism.   The Current State of Affairs The United States, in particular, has one of the highest incarceration rates globally, a fact that underscores the systemic reliance on imprisonment as a primary mode of punishment. This punitive approach, however, has not corresponded with a proportional decrease in crime rates, leading to questions about the efficacy of incarceration as a deterrent. Moreover, the prison system is beleaguered with issu...

The historical roots of objectification and sexual assault in Western societies can be traced back to the era of European colonization, a period marked by profound power imbalances and cultural impositions. This blog post aims to explore how these deeply ingrained issues have evolved from the time of the European settlers to their persistent impact on contemporary society, highlighting the cultural, societal, and legal responses that have shaped and continue to influence the fight against these pervasive problems. The Legacy of European Settlers The colonization period initiated by European settlers in various parts of the world was characterized by a stark imposition of power and cultural norms over indigenous populations. This era was marked by a systematic devaluation of native cultures, often manifesting in the objectification of women and a normalization of sexual violence. Women, particularly those from indigenous communities, were frequently viewed as commodities or spoils of co...

The exploration of gender roles, rights, oppression, and the intersection with religious and societal norms in early America offers a multifaceted view into the lives of women during a formative period in history. This era, spanning from the early colonial period through the late 18th century, was marked by profound changes, including European colonization, the establishment of the United States, and the beginnings of the industrial revolution. Women's experiences during this time were deeply influenced by the prevailing gender ideologies, religious beliefs, and societal expectations, which both constrained and occasionally offered opportunities for resistance and agency.   Gender Roles and Societal Expectations   In early America, societal norms were heavily influenced by European cultural traditions, which prescribed distinct roles for men and women. The concept of "separate spheres" was prevalent, with men participating in public life, politics, and the economy, while ...