Surviving the System

Just a few years ago, I had gained full custody of my 6-year-old daughter. I participated on Detroit Mayor's Recreational Advisory Board. I was in school, mentoring young men, and teaching kids hands-on applications of skilled trades. I was earning respect in the community and being the responsible citizen I thought every young, African-American man should be. But, five days before Christmas, all of that changed. After a long night working at a Christmas party, a friend of mine and I had an encounter that has changed my life completely. All of a sudden, my life became a hot story in Detroit news media. Everything I've worked for up to this point was in jeopardy.