1.) How are you connected to this movement?  

I spent 1,168 days on Rikers Island, and out of those 1168 days I spent 1,122 in solitary confinement. The entire time I was there, I was tortured. So when people ask me to describe Rikers Island, the only thing I can say is absolute torture. I'm connected to the cause, because I am the cause. I went through Rikers Island, I survived Rikers Island, and I'm here to end it. 

2.) Why should Rikers close?  

Rikers should close because killing people is illegal, and putting people in solitary confinement is killing them. Even if they're not dead physically, they're dead mentally, emotionally. And I'm living proof. I'm here, I'm alive physically, and I'm here on Earth, but mentally and emotionally, I'm scarred. 

3.) What is your vision for a more just and equitable post-Rikers New York City?  

I believe a more just New York City, or world in general, would be bringing more supportive housing for people, as well as more mental health treatment. And I say that because it goes hand in hand. Some people are mentally ill because they are homeless and they have no home to go to. So sleeping in the train, sleeping in the parks, as I have done in the past - I used to sleep in the trains, I used to sleep in the parks, I used to sleep in abandoned buildings, and it messed me up mentally and emotionally. I had several mental health people quit and tell me they can't help me anymore because my case is so severe. No one's trained to help a person that's been in solitary confinement for a long time.