In his book War of the Bloods In My Veins: A Street Soldier's March to Redemption, author and motivational speaker Dashaun Jiwe Morris examines a life wrought with sadness unknown to many Americans. Jiwe's transition from a child full of promise to the boy who commits his first drive-by at age 11 is a tragic tale of modern childhood. It is this pivotal moment when the reader knows that his relationship with the Bloods is no fleeting romance but a long-term commitment. Neither the passing of friends, fears for his own safely, nor the guilt which plagues Jiwe, are enough to extricate him from the grip. It is later, through a high school football coach, that Jiwe finds a substitute father; one of a few adults looking after his best interest. When he is recruited by Delaware State University on a football scholarship, he has every reason to look forward to a future in the NFL. Things are even looking up on the personal front, as he has found true love and is awaiting the birth of his first child. However, his past catches up with him and he is charged with attempted murder. Prison time, though lonely, allows Jiwe time to reflect on the true purpose of a gang; to protect and support the community. Now, he looks to reform the very concept of gang culture. War of the Bloods In My Veins is a revelation for the vast majority of Americans, including those familiar with urban communities as well as those who see themselves as separate. What Jiwe wants readers to know is that no one is separate or removed from the bleak truth related in his book and that, if ignored, the current definition of gang culture will claim many more victims.
On today's program Angela spends an hour with Jiwe who retells and reinforces his message for all to hear.
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