Yusef Salaam: Do Not Let Your Past Dictate Your Future

Yusef Salaam was one of the five young men accused of the rape of Central Park jogger, Trisha Meili. None of the five young men knew each other prior to the incident, other than Salaam and Korey Wise. Their tight bond is what landed Wise in the police's custody in the first place. Salaam was the only of the five young men who survived the police's coercion without being forced into a false confession. Who knows what would've happened if his mom didn't make it to the precinct in time. Although, he lasted through interrogation without confessing to the rape, he would soon find his efforts to stick to the truth to be in vain, as he would be charged for the crime and serve seven years behind bars. His accomplishments after his release is what he should be most remembered for, though.

Yusef Salaam is now:

-A father of ten

-An owner of his own business "Yusef Speaks"

-A Dr.

-A Lifetime Achievement Award Winner (given by Barack Obama)

-An outspoken critic of Donald Trump

Anyone who takes the time to learn his story could tell you that he is the living embodiment of not letting your past dictate your future. He has been an inspiration for many, including myself. I have never been in jail, and pray that I never have to endure such a fate. However, after seeing a man like this blossom into the public figure that he is today after being dealt those stack of cards back in 1989, I know that I can achieve anything I put my mind to.