Introducing myself, I am Laporcsha Peoples, the wife of Rivera Peoples. I am a dedicated advocate for criminal justice reform. Committed to restorative practices, I hold four degrees from Arkansas State University. I am a Licensed esthetician, and the proud owner of Knéw Skin Esthetics LLC, I also engage in freelance web designing to support those negatively impacted by the justice system. 

 

Falling in love with my husband and bestfriend Rivera, has ignited a mission within me to advocate for the voiceless. The persistent issues of wrongful convictions and harsh sentences in our community drive my passion to use my energy, strength, and prayers to stand up for those affected by the justice system.

 

Born in a federal prison, I have dedicated my life to shattering the cycles of injustice that have long plagued our society. My journey has been marked by resilience and determination, fueled by a passion for creating a world where freedom is not only possible but inevitable.

 

I have worked tirelessly to empower marginalized communities and amplify the voices of those silenced by the criminal justice system. My activism has taken me to the forefront of some of the most critical battles for justice, including marching on Washington D.C.,participating in the “Heal People, Heal People Empathy on the Hill week event.”

 

I am honored to be part of the 2024 Dream.org cohort, a testament to my unwavering commitment to justice and equality. My story is one of hope and redemption, a reminder that even in the darkest corners of our justice system, there is always the potential for transformation and growth.     

 

Through my work, I aim to humanize the justice-impacted experience, to bridge the gaps between communities, and to forge a new path forward - one that is rooted in empathy, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice for all.

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"Embracing righteousness, pursuing justice, and uplifting the oppressed."

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Carlos Parks was born in Goldsboro, NC, but raised in Lynchburg, VA. Carlos fell in love with public speaking after becoming a member of the "Fresh Start" Toastmasters group while incarcerated in federal prison. Carlos returned to society in 2015 after winning his appeal based on his attorney’s ineffectiveness. He went on to launch his own nonprofit organization and sits on the board of several others. Carlos began speaking to returning citizens in NC and eventually worked his way into the NC and SC prison systems. Since then, Carlos has given speeches to thousands of people. He has been a guest on radio shows and interviewed on several podcasts. Ironically, Carlos went on to host a radio show and now a podcast.

 

In 2020, Carlos was invited to speak at TEDx Greensboro. He is a mentee of Joe Dudley Sr. and a member of the Dudley Eagles Speakers Bureau. Carlos sits on the board of the HHNA and Father's United. He is an adjunct professor of Re-entry at Durham Tech. Carlos is an accomplished artist and licensed NC real estate agent, a published author of one book and one manual for re-entry. He owns a real estate brokerage in Jamestown at 804-B W. Main St. Carlos is the director of communication for Fifth Sun TV , where they advocate and give a voice to the voiceless.

 

Carlos vows to continue his fight for and with the many men and women who suffer from unfair sentencing practices, wrongful convictions and racism in our criminal justice system. Carlos resides in Jamestown, NC, with his beautiful wife, Demetria Parks, and their two children, Carlia Parks and Carlos Parks III (Tre).