Presentation: The Paradox of Resilency

Rudy Bankston’s presentation, originally scheduled for April 14, 2018, was postponed due to severe weather conditions. The presentation has been rescheduled, and will occur at 3 pm on Saturday, May 5.

Roderick "Rudy" Bankston is a committed educator, activist and published author. His powerful story about his experience as a survivor of school-to-prison pipeline offers key insights into the paradox of resiliency fueled by systemic injustice. Wrongly convicted and handed a life sentence in his youth, Rudy entered the prison system deeply wounded and in the clutches of a severe identity crisis. After two decades (1995-2015) of turning his prison cell into a classroom, Rudy reclaimed his freedom with an indomitable sense of self and determination over his future. Currently, Rudy is an adjunct professor at Edgewood College and works full-time as a Restorative Justice Coach with the Madison Metropolitan School District. His books will be for sale at the event.

This presentation will offer powerful insights regarding factors that contribute to the school-to-prison pipeline and the importance of restorative justice practice in education. The event is free and open to the public. We want to reach all community members committed to promoting justice and equity and to honor the promise held within each young person.

Check out Rudy’s website: iamweclassics.com