James Washington

Library Fabrication Supervisor

James Washington was born and raised in New Orleans. He was arrested at 15 and sentenced to 60 years for manslaughter and armed robbery. While incarcerated, James obtained his GED diploma, enrolled in welding school, and also went to seminary and acquired a degree in pastoral care and ministry with a minor in counseling. He also undertook an apprenticeship in the prison carpentry shop and fell in love with woodworking. He was paroled from Louisiana State Penitentiary after serving 25 years. James is embedded with the Revival Workshop in New Orleans, working with his hands to help craft beautiful wooden bookcases for Freedom Libraries across the country.

Staff