At the core of Allen Woods' story is a journey marked by resilience, determination, and a fervent commitment to community service. Allen, now 61 years old, faced thechallenges of serving a 180-month sentence in federal prison for a non-violent cannabis-related offense, enduring this unjust period of his life in Arizona. Presently, hefinds himself in the throes of a second sentence under federal jurisdiction.
Undeterred by adversity, Allen channeled his experiences into a powerful force for positive change. In the heart of West Philadelphia, he founded the non-profit organization, "The Men of Tustin." Through this initiative, Allen engages with senior citizens and children in his community, fostering dialogue about the impact of incarceration and the consequences of breaking the law.
Allen's passion for advocacy is driven by a deep-seated frustration with the discrepancy between the evolving legal landscape of cannabis in the United States and his prolonged sentence. Despite the legalization of cannabis in 38 states for medical use and 24 states for recreational use, Allen remains confined, emblematic of the systemic issues within the criminal justice system.
Looking beyond his present circumstances, Allen Woods eagerly anticipates the day he can reunite with his family and children. His commitment to activism remains unwavering, and he is eager to resume his work with “The Men of Tustin,” continuing to impact his community positively.
In the face of adversity, Woods stands as a symbol of resilience, advocating for justice and tirelessly working towards a better, more equitable future for himself and those around him.