By Laura Elizabeth Jenkins
Thirty-year old small business owner Joshua Hernandez of Memphis, TN writes American Gulag from Federal Correctional Institution Forrest City in Arkansas. As of this writing, he has not been able to see his wife, 2 year old son, and 6 month old daughter while currently serving his 24 month sentence.
In a world that’s often quick to judge, it’s crucial to remember that behind every headline lies a human being with a heartrending story, enduring unfathomable struggles, and a desperate plea for help. My story deserves to be heard; not to condone my actions, but to humanize and shed light on the insurmountable challenges my family and I face today.
Like many who attended the events in Washington D.C. on Jan.6., I went with no intent to causing harm. I believed in the right to peacefully express my views, completely unaware of the maelstrom that would soon follow.
After protesting and returning home, a chilling day awaited as I headed to work. I suddenly found myself staring down the barrels of 30 FBI agents’ guns, loaded and pointed menacingly at me. In that harrowing moment, inhaling the acrid smoke from my cigarette, a cold realization washed over me – they were out to vilify Trump supporters, branding them as dangerous extremists.
In the face of such terror, I valiantly held my head high, refusing to grant them the satisfaction of witnessing fear. I surrendered peacefully, asking only that I make sure my wife and child were dressed before they barged into my home. This simple request was denied as they marched in anyways in search of items related to January 6.
Months of legal processing and pretrial sentencing followed. During this tumultuous period, my life hung in limbo. The Washington D.C. office handling this case showing little regard for my dire personal circumstances. In a heart-wrenching twist, I received a call that shattered my world – the passing of my beloved mother, the bedrock of my existence. With the court’s heartless denial of my plea to be with my grieving family in Houston, Texas, the weight of this unbearable burden grew exponentially.
The grief was soul-crushing, a stark reminder that life’s relentless trials do not halt for personal turmoil or legal battles. The tears were not just my own but the anguish of a devoted son mourning the loss of his mother.
Yet my story transcends personal hardship. It is a testament to resilience and the enduring love of a family. My devoted wife, Letty, faced with the daunting task of raising our two young children alone while I languished in the legal quagmire, displayed unwavering strength and unwavering love.
As you read this heartrending narrative, let your compassion and empathy guide you. My intention is not to excuse my actions but to humanize myself and my family. We are grappling with real-life challenges that transcend political divides. Every decision carries consequences, and these consequences often ripple far beyond the individual.
This is a story that should stir our compassion, not just for me but for Letty and my innocent children. It underscores the importance of empathy and understanding, even when confronting actions we may strongly disagree with.
While we cannot rewrite history, we can make a difference in their lives. We can offer Letty some respite as she confronts the trials of single parenthood. We can provide our children with a glimmer of hope for a more stable and secure future.
Remember that behind the headlines, real people are enduring real hardships. Your support can make a meaningful difference in their lives. If this story has touched your heart, please consider contributing to our family’s fund, enabling them us navigate these trying times. Together, we can demonstrate the boundless power of compassion and support when it is needed most.
PLEASE DONATE HERE TO Joshua Hernandez’s GiveSendGo account: https://www.givesendgo.com/G2VZN