In a compelling and evocative presentation by Kirsten Wilson, audiences were drawn into the intricate tales of women impacted by the criminal legal system. Titled “Boundless Truth,” this performance was an excerpt from Motus Theater’s illustrious JustUs project – a platform that enabled individuals who have faced incarceration to share their deeply personal experiences.
Using the power of monologue, women such as Colette Payne and Cynthia Randall took center stage to narrate the profound effects of incarceration on their lives and those of their children. As each story unfolded, it became evident that these were not just personal accounts but powerful statements that underscored the urgent need for legal reforms. Kirsten Wilson, the brilliant mind behind Motus Theater, ensured that these narratives weren’t just performed on grand stages, but also reverberated through the corridors of District Attorney’s offices across the nation, urging policymakers to introspect and make tangible changes.
Music by Spirit of Grace provided a haunting backdrop to these monologues, echoing the sentiments expressed and amplifying the impact. The synergy of music and storytelling worked in tandem to highlight the flaws of a racist and punitive system.
Bryan Stevenson, a noted figure in the realm of justice, praised the JustUs project, emphasizing how these monologues could alter deeply ingrained narratives that have perpetuated systems of oppression.
Colette Payne, one of the monologists, holds an illustrious position at the Women’s Justice Institute. Her life mission is to usher in transformative change for incarcerated women and girls. Notably, in 2015, Colette etched her name in history by joining a delegation that assessed women’s prisons in Illinois – a feat achieved as the first formerly incarcerated woman to do so in the US
Another influential voice was that of Cynthia Randall, whose expertise spans addiction, psychotherapy, and acupuncture detoxification. With over 19 years of dedicated service, she’s become a beacon of hope, especially in the domains of restorative justice and community building.
Kirsten Wilson, the driving force behind this project, stands tall as a master teacher in the realm of autobiographical monologue work. Her prowess in trauma-informed narrative development has led to Motus Theater being recognized as a sanctuary for stories that matter. Kirsten’s artistry lies not just in weaving tales, but in creating environments of “courageous empathy.” She pairs these monologues with leaders who echo the same sentiment, amplifying the call for justice.
In summation, Kirsten Wilson’s “Boundless Truth” wasn’t just a presentation; it was a movement. By spotlighting the untold stories of women affected by the criminal legal system, she gave voice to the voiceless, urging society to reevaluate and rectify its entrenched prejudices. For those in attendance, it wasn’t merely a performance but an awakening to the stark realities faced by many and a clarion call to advocate for a more compassionate and just legal system.
