A Mother Rebuilds Her Life After Surviving Abuse And Prison

Abolitionist Sanctuary

Abolitionist Sanctuary
A Mother Rebuilds Her Life After Surviving Abuse And Prison
May 08, 2026 Season 3 Episode 11
Nikia

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We talk with Leslie Campbell about surviving abuse, being incarcerated as a mother, and rebuilding a life through education, faith, and community. We name the harm mass incarceration does to families and push for a world where Black women are believed, protected, and free to thrive. 
• Leslie’s testimony of self-defense, incarceration, and finding a way forward 
• Education as the turning point for voice, self-esteem, and reentry success 
• What Leslie sees when bringing hope and resources into women’s facilities 
• Realities of incarceration at Rikers and upstate, including prison labor 
• The impact of separation on children, mothers, and extended family caregivers 
• Reentry guilt, family alienation, and the trauma of reunification 
• Faith as survival in solitary confinement and a guide for restoration 
• Practical ways churches can support incarcerated people and returning citizens 
• Encouragement for mothers to practice grace and release perfection myths 
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