The Appeal

A Vital Voice from Behind the Razor Wire

Christopher Blackwell

Christopher Blackwell is entering his third decade in prison. He was also recently named a contributing editor at The Appeal. Blackwell’s work amplifying the voices of people who are incarcerated and weaving their stories into his reporting has benefitted the historically silenced prison population. His coverage secured one man’s chance for post-conviction relief and contributed to growing support for a repeal to stop using prior juvenile adjudications to enhance sentences in adult courts. Now, he’s mentoring other incarcerated journalists and providing them with valuable professional skills.