35 Years to Freedom: Star Granger's Story of Survival and Redemption

In this powerful episode of Opening Doors, Star Granger shares her deeply personal journey from being incarcerated at 17 for first-degree murder to her release in 2018 after serving 35 years. Star reflects on the realities of life in prison, her fight for survival and personal growth, and the challenges faced by women in the criminal justice system. She also discusses her involvement with reentry programs, her work as a certified peer specialist, and the founding of Swag Sisters with a Goal, an organization aimed at empowering formerly incarcerated women. With a focus on trauma, resilience, and social justice, this episode sheds light on the critical gaps in the system and the need for policy change, especially for women.

Key Episode Takeaways:

• Star Granger’s story of surviving 35 years in prison, sentenced at 17.

• The psychological and emotional impact of being incarcerated for decades.

• How Star's work as a certified peer specialist and her advocacy through Swag Sisters with a Goal is empowering women reentering society.

• Challenges women face in reentry programs, many of which are geared more towards men.

• The importance of trauma-informed care and peer support in rehabilitation and reintegration.

Key Resources and Links:

• SWAG: Sisters with a Goal:

• https://www.why-not-prosper.org/swag.html

• https://www.instagram.com/sisterswithagoal/ 

• Why Not Prosper

• https://www.why-not-prosper.org/ 

• https://www.instagram.com/why__not__prosper/ 

• ACLU: https://www.aclu.org/ 

• I Am More Reentry Engagement Program at Community College of Philadelphia: https://www.ccp.edu/student-services/student-assistance-centers/i-am-more-reentry-engagement-program

• Miller v. Alabama - Striking down Life Sentences for Juveniles https://cfsy.org/court-case/miller-v-alabama/

• Montgomery v. Louisiana https://www.theusconstitution.org/litigation/montgomery-v-louisiana-u-s-sup-ct/

• Uplift Solutions: https://upliftsolutions.org/