Suitcase Sunday was a unique experience that further motivated my work as a WITNESS intern and budding advocate against mass incarceration. This event offered me the opportunity to connect with the community WITNESS aspires to serve, ensuring that my efforts remain grounded in our constituency's needs. I listened to the inspirational stories of formerly incarcerated business owners who survived the criminal legal system and are now pursuing their respective passions.

In addition to their stories, these individuals' joy and community were infectious. It was evident that their network, along with their businesses, has been the outcome of years of dedication and devotion. I also enjoyed meeting the other WITNESS interns.

Working remotely, it is often challenging to feel in community with one's peers. Suitcase Sunday allowed me to form offline friendships with my fellow interns, making our online work environment more vibrant. As I pursue a career in activism, I am sure I will remember Suitcase Sunday as a formative experience in the social justice sector. Thank you, Evie and business owners, for making this event such a delightful initiative.

Working with Witness to Mass Incarceration has been a transformative experience for me. It's the first time I've worked at a nonprofit, and feeling like I'm contributing to a greater cause is truly the most fulfilling part about this internship, let alone the work experience and education I'm receiving. Particularly, the chance to meet and help formerly incarcerated people at Suitcase Sunday by assisting in setting up the event was very heartfelt for me, since we were actually able to see and talk with our constituents, instead of just talking about them over zoom. I'm thankful to have this opportunity, and I'm glad to be working at WITNESS this summer, as a new type of experience.

Having the ability to attend the 4th annual Suitcase Sunday was such a privilege. Meeting all of the people who we work to support and seeing the impact that WITNESS has is truly inspiring. Not only was I able to meet my fellow interns, but I also was able to form connections with the participating business owners. The event showed me how strong and genuine the community of formerly incarcerated individuals is.