By Jess Jollett / Reclaim the Community

On Friday night, the Southeast community of San Diego hosted nationally renowned public intellectual and activist, Dr. Cornel West.

Dr. West came to speak at Lincoln High School after learning of the gang injunction case brought against 33 young, black men using an untested penal code, P.C. 182.5. The case brought national attention to District Attorney’s use of this draconian and obscure code resulting from a proposition passed in 2000.

The event was sponsored by Reclaiming the Community, a coalition of individuals, community leaders, and organizations that embrace the historic, rich, and diverse culture of Southeast San Diego, and recognize its ability to become a leader in community participation.

The program included an onstage interview with Brandon Duncan (known as rapper Tiny Doo) and Aaron Harvey.

The two have spearheaded the campaign to bring attention to p.c. 182.5, gang documentation and injunctions, and mass incarceration. Working under the name ‘Justice4SD33’, Duncan and Harvey have been organizing in Southeast and across the state since their release in January. While on stage Duncan and Harvey shared their experience of unjust prosecutions and incarceration and the damage it did to their own personal lives, and to their families and communities.

Dr. West used much of his presentation to address P.C. 182.5, which he called “a policy of a police state.” He also encouraged the community to continue to work together in love to reclaim their neighborhood.

Eds Note: Thanks to Sarah Saez for the pics and soliciting this story.