CDCR Secretary Jeff Macomber toured Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) and watched the institution’s third annual CCWF’s Got Talent show.
This event features spoken word with poetry in art, original singing, cultural dancing, topped off with decorations of ballons, stars, and banners.
Incarcerated first time attendee, My Nguyen stated, “It was nice to see the community come together and share their talent.”
The population performed talented acts from each general population facility, with the top three winners awarded prizes and certificates.
The winners included were April Pitts, first place (original song); Faalele Patea, second place (cultural Hawaiian dance); and Asia Kinslow, third place (original song).
Leadership on hand to congratulate the winners were Secretary Macomber, CCWF acting Warden Anissa De La Cruz, and acting Chief Deputy Warden Cynthia “Cyndi” Rojas.
“In my 31 years in the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, I have never seen a Talent Show. This event was great,” said Rojas.
De La Cruz said events such as these help with normalization efforts, a pillar of the California Model.
“A talent show provides a platform for individuals to showcase their unique skills, creativity, and passions,” she said. “(These events are) fostering a sense of community, appreciation for diversity, and celebration of talent. It is amazing to see how much talent there is at CCWF.”
Learn more about the California Model on the CDCR website.
Submitted by Lt. M. Williams
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