The Masquerade Ball

• In Event: Unapologetic Narratives Through Direct Experience: Success and Resiliency Among Black Children of Incarcerated Parents

Abstract

All across the United States of America in these rooms that may vary in size, but are uniformed to the least, relationships are fostered, memories are made, tears are shed, news of all sorts is shared. Families wake up at the crack of dawn to prepare themselves for this routine encounter. Trying not to be late, some preparations begin the night or week before, depending on the travel time. Last minute stops at the local Walmart for finishing touches to their best outfit to fit the occasion and to avoid any unforeseen barriers that will cause them to miss the first head count (9 am Population Count). God forbid getting caught in this count, having to wait in the cold and gloomy waiting area, wasting precious time that could be spent on the party dance floor. On the other side there are a group of individuals waiting for the much-anticipated crowd to arrive, going through their weekly, some monthly, some even yearly preparation rituals, some are taking by sudden surprise by the random invite to the party. Pulling out their best, both parties prepare their best mask for what I like to call The Masquerade Ball. The book chapter presentation includes perspective from formerly incarcerated father and son.

Authors

• Donald Stevenson, Aspire 2 Inspire

• Kevin Gethers, Aspire 2 Inspire