Some of you will wonder who is Chico? Chico was born in December 1932 in Orangeburg, South Carolina and raised in Coatesville, Pa. (Chester County).
Chico is a combat veteran of the United States Army [1951-1954] and a disabled veteran who suffers with PTSD and received an honorable discharge. He began to work as an entertainer in Philadelphia, but in the summer of 1956 Chico’s life was interrupted when he was arrested by the Chester County authorities and eventually charged with murder.
This situation is one that occurs everyday throughout America and much too frequently to Black persons. Chico received a very questionable trial and was sentenced to life imprisonment. He like the majority of people lacked the financial ability to fight the system. After being incarcerated for 16 years he was released on lifetime parole. Chico has been on parole for over forty years and has led an exceptionally clean life, but he is still stigmatized by being on parole.
I am totally at a loss why the numerous parole boards have never released this man from the parole. I have known about Chico’s situation for some time, but recent statements made by candidates for governor reminded me that there may be one million or more Black persons across this nation in similar situations that deprive them of the right to ample opportunities to help stabilize their families.
Almost every politician stresses the importance of funding preschool or early education and it is an extremely life rewarding issue. However they are focusing on the next generation, and that may require the next 25 years, but what happens to the current generation between 20 and 40? There is no plan or concern about those arrested, lacking of schooling or whatever the issue. It is imperative that we insist on politicians locally and statewide making legitimate efforts to put these persons to work.
Please remember that Kingsley Association needs your financial assistance.
(Louis “Hop” Kendrick is a weekly contributor to the Forum page.)
