In a recent episode of Hard Knock Radio, host Davey D shed light on the alarming discovery of 21 deaths within the Broward County Jail in Florida, focusing on the tragic case of Janard Geffrard. Geffrard’s mother, Marcia Irving, joined the conversation to detail her son’s harrowing experience, which ended in his death following a severe assault by a cellmate. Despite being critically injured and declared brain dead, Janard was inexplicably released on recognizance from the hospital without a court appearance, a decision that puzzled Irving.
Irving criticized the jail’s failure to provide timely medical intervention and its lack of transparency and accountability, especially as her son was left unattended for 21 minutes post-assault, contributing to his demise. The discussion also touched on broader issues of jail safety, inmate treatment, and systemic neglect within the prison system. Marcia shared her struggles with funeral expenses and called for improved prison conditions and oversight to prevent future tragedies.
The episode further highlighted concerns over inmate compatibility, the need for transparent communication from jail authorities, and the importance of community and organizational support in advocating for justice. Marcia Irving’s call to action emphasized the urgency of addressing these systemic failures and ensuring that such incidents are thoroughly investigated and prevented in the future. The conversation concluded with a collective call for change, underscoring the need for societal and institutional reforms to protect inmates’ rights and dignity.
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In a compelling interview on Hard Knock Radio, Davey D sat down with Jinho Ferreira, a multifaceted artist and playwright, to explore his remarkable journey from law enforcement to the arts. Ferreira, formerly a member of the group Flip Side and known by his stage name Piper, delved into the transition that led him to writing and performing. His latest play, “Black Men Everywhere,” draws from his rich experiences and insights into the complexities of racial narratives in America.
Ferreira shared his screenwriting voyage, marked by accolades and the hurdles of navigating the film industry’s unpredictability, including challenges posed by writers’ strikes and a drift from diverse storytelling. His frustrations with these barriers prompted a return to the stage, where he found autonomy in storytelling through “Black Man Everywhere.” The play, inspired by a family trip exploring black history, critiques the manipulation of the “dangerous black man” myth, weaving in Ferreira’s personal and historical reflections.
Highlighting his family’s educational journey through significant American historical sites, Ferreira expressed discomfort with the South’s preservation of Confederate symbols, contrasting it with California’s landscape. This exploration deeply influenced the narrative of his play, where he ambitiously portrays 21 characters, directing the piece himself.
Looking ahead, Ferreira is gearing up for the performance of “Black Man Everywhere” at Bam House in downtown Oakland, alongside discussing his hip hop project “Black Law,” which examines the black experience within the justice system.
Hard Knock Radio is a drive-time Hip-Hop talk show on KPFA (94.1fm @ 4-5 pm Monday-Friday), a community radio station without corporate underwriting, hosted by Davey D and Anita Johnson.