If you take a moment to look around anywhere in society today, you’ll find examples of how language – negative language that is – can be harmful. The terminology we use can create positive emotions or invoke negative responses. The words can make people feel complicated and, in some instances, accomplished or it can make people feel insulted, incapable or like a failure. The importance of language and how we use it was critically perceived by Ramadii Parker during his time in the Richland Correctional Facility in Mansfield, Ohio.
During his time Ramadii realized the importance of supportive and positive language and began to pursue his bachelor’s degree in communications via Secrurus’ Lantern Education program. He was first exposed to the power and importance of language during his participation in a six-hour workshop entitled the Exodus Planner Workbook. After Ramadii served his time, he contacted the Securus Foundation to communicate to them the value he placed on the Exodus Planner program. At that time he also let the Securus Foundation know that he was pursuing his bachelor’s degree through the Securus Lantern Program in partnership with Ashland University.
Ramadii’s focus is on recognizing, and teaching others to do the same, the impact simple language can have on creating false limits in people’s minds. During his participating in the Lantern Education program Ramadii realized just how much he enjoyed the power of communication and is leveraging the opportunity to polish his own skills; skills he uses as the “Language Matters” campaign Amabassador for the Securus Foundation.
For more on Ramadii’s story, see the full narrative online at officer.com/21165109
