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Girls in Jail

"My friend works with drug offenders and prostitutes."

Listen to this Commentary!

By Charlotte Silver

My whole life I’ve been friends with Carolyn.

I’m Charlotte Silver with a commentary from Youth Radio.

Carolyn is a social worker from San Francisco. Her clothes are multi-colored and flowey, and her manner is unique and bold.

As a kid, I was mystified and fascinated with her. On one hand, I couldn’t help but feel a huge distance from the conflicts and issues she saw everyday. But it was because Carolyn was so different that I was so interested in her.

In Carolyn’s job, she works with drug offenders and prostitutes. When the rest of the city may be rejecting them, Carolyn is there to listen and help.

Through Carolyn, I’ve gotten to know a poet named Duran. I’ve never met her, but I’ve heard so many stories of her amazing experiences. Her poetry draws images of homelessness, her encounters with the police, and prison. Duran is a perfect example of an incredible mind that wasn’t nurtured. But Carolyn appreciates and respects Duran.

It was Carolyn who let me into the world of Duran and so many women like her. And somehow, I have been able to reach a private connection and understanding of these women.

For Youth Radio, I’m Charlotte Silver.