Tupac's poetry in The Rose That Grew From Concrete has unique applicability for lawyers. Tupac was involved in gang activity during his life, but his poetry reminds us that all criminals are humans that are pushed and pulled by external social forces. In exposing his heart through his poetry, Tupac challenges many stereotypes surrounding Black men, particularly those that label them as criminals, thugs, or "superpredators." Although criminal lawyers will obviously gain much from this work, all lawyers can reflect on how their clients struggle to be emotionally understood and validated in a system that can be brutally obtuse and mechanical. Tupac's work shows an understanding of the power of vulnerability in telling one's story and inviting others in. As lawyers, we are often that individual who has an opportunity to step in and advocate for others. In doing so, we assist them in expressing themselves and in casting off the injustices that cover our shared humanity.
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