Listen to Aisa Villarosa and Darris Young discuss the roots of mass incarceration, pathways for systems change, and Darris’s life and work in becoming a strong advocate for Black and Brown boys, men, and communities.

“When you believe in the humanity of all people, and you come together on that accord, then you’re able to get [the work] done.”
Darris Young is the lead Program Associate for the Boys and Men of Color Alliance at the Urban Strategies Council. Born in Oakland, Darris is a national organizer and former counselor who has decades of experience working and partnering with Black and Latinx youth and young adults.
Darris joined Insight’s Aisa Villarosa on the podcast to discuss his advocacy work through the Oakland-based Urban Strategies Council, where he collaborates through a number of coalitions to advance education reform, workforce development, violence prevention, and other community-based priorities.
Recounting his journey to advocacy work, Darris discussed his background growing up in the East Bay amid the Black Panther movement, his experience as a police officer, and his transition from justice system involvement to counseling and community organizing.
Tracing this path, Darris and Aisa examine the origins and impact of mass incarceration and other forms of systemic racism and oppression, and they dig in on the spirit of resistance, collaboration, and shared humanity that informs Darris’s tireless work for systems change.
To listen to the full discussion, use the audio player above or subscribe to the Hidden Truths podcast on Apple Podcasts. 
Read the transcript here or download as PDF. 

To learn more about Darris’s work, visit the Urban Strategies Council at urbanstrategies.org. 
RESOURCES:
Amended Senate Bill No. 310 
“Our Voice Matters: Support ACA 6: Restore Voting Rights to Californians on Parole.” 
“Convicted Felons Closer to Serving on California Juries.”