I saw a pedestrian get hit by a drunk driver and pounded on his body to try and keep him alive while his life ran out of his head. My description of the car led to the driver's arrest. I was subpoenaed to testify. I was also a public defender and knew all too well how the criminal legal system has nothing to do with justice. I knew the driver would have to live with the knowledge they'd killed someone. I also knew that the dead stranger with whom I shared the bizarre intimacy of holding while he died was a precious human life. I told the DA that I would testify, but that I would also freely speak with defense counsel and tell the judge my thoughts about punishment and mercy. I think there can be a way to participate that is more on your own terms than the prosecutors want you to know.
I'm easy to find off Substack, for better or worse. If I can offer more private guidance and support with the legal system, don't hesitate to look me up.
I do love Jorie Graham! And thanks-- good things to keep in mind. I do have personal experience within the legal system and a long background of working in anti-violence work from an abolitionist lens and it's certainly all being tested. We will see!
I'm so sorry. Sending love and prayers for protection to you and your partner. May you be safe and have all that you need despite this devastation. - Sarah, longtime reader/follower
So many things I want to say. Mostly: I am glad you wrote so we can witness you. I am glad you are alive. Also, I think this Jorie Graham poem will resonate for you. https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/1993/11/01/annunciation-with-a-bullet-in-it
I saw a pedestrian get hit by a drunk driver and pounded on his body to try and keep him alive while his life ran out of his head. My description of the car led to the driver's arrest. I was subpoenaed to testify. I was also a public defender and knew all too well how the criminal legal system has nothing to do with justice. I knew the driver would have to live with the knowledge they'd killed someone. I also knew that the dead stranger with whom I shared the bizarre intimacy of holding while he died was a precious human life. I told the DA that I would testify, but that I would also freely speak with defense counsel and tell the judge my thoughts about punishment and mercy. I think there can be a way to participate that is more on your own terms than the prosecutors want you to know.
I'm easy to find off Substack, for better or worse. If I can offer more private guidance and support with the legal system, don't hesitate to look me up.
Keep breathing. Keep writing.
I do love Jorie Graham! And thanks-- good things to keep in mind. I do have personal experience within the legal system and a long background of working in anti-violence work from an abolitionist lens and it's certainly all being tested. We will see!
no words, Jennye 😞
Thanks for helping us through it, Jane. <3
Beautiful and aching, honest and visceral. Thank you for writing and sharing, Jennye. Sending love your way.
Thank you for reading and sending love right back to you too, Christian. <3
I'm so sorry. Sending love and prayers for protection to you and your partner. May you be safe and have all that you need despite this devastation. - Sarah, longtime reader/follower
Much appreciated and thank you for reading, too!
Much love, Jennye.
Right back to you, Maura. <3
Beautiful, chilling, courageous, and relatable. Prayers for your continued safety and relative peace of mind.