The Black and White

A Note From the Editor: Last week Pilgrim High School hosted the Circles of Silence program for all students. The United States Attorney’s Community Outreach provide the program to all Rhode Island schools and students from grades 7-12 as well as college and non-profit organizations. Below is a letter sent by the Community Engagement & Crime Prevention Coordinator David Neill about his experience at Pilgrim High School.

The United States Attorney’s Community Outreach Office is available to provide the Circles and Silence program to all Rhode Island schools and students grades 7-12, colleges, and to community and not-for-profit organizations at no cost. To learn more about the Circles and Silence Program or to schedule a presentation contact Community Engagement & Crime Prevention Coordinator David Neill

Congratulations to the Pilgrim High School students who demonstrated extraordinary love, empathy, understanding, and respect toward someone whose upbringing was vastly different from their own. Witnessing such genuine compassion from young adults was truly inspiring—it’s a testament to the incredible role models guiding them. Well done!

During our Circles and Silence opioid and e-cigarette prevention presentation, students approached Victor Perez, thanking him for courageously sharing his heartfelt story. Many asked for a photo, and I couldn’t help but notice Victor’s constant smile—a reflection of the meaningful connections he made that day.

Victor’s Story: A Journey of Resilience and Redemption

Victor grew up in extreme poverty, without stable housing, food, or clothing. His father left at a young age, and his mother struggled with substance use dependency, often accompanied by men to support her addiction. These adverse childhood experiences led Victor down a path of unexpressed feelings (anger) and substance use, which ultimately resulted in a drug-related act that led to 25 years of incarceration—starting at just 18 years old.

While incarcerated, Victor made a life-changing decision—he used his voice to seek help. He immersed himself in mental health programs, learned to read, pursued education, and sought out mentors. Through self-reflection and resilience, he realized how his past shaped his choices and vowed to empower others to break the cycle.

Today, Victor selflessly volunteers his time, sharing his journey in the hope of reaching just one person—one student who may be facing a similar struggle, one person who, when confronted with a choice, will remember his story, and choose a different path. After our presentation, Victor told me, “It was worth it. Several students told me they were going to stop vaping.” That is impact.

A Grateful Thank You

Special thanks to Principal Toby Gibbon and Student Assistance Counselor Jaime Ferretti for inviting us to Pilgrim High School. Your commitment to educating and mentoring students is truly exceptional.

And to Victor Perez—your passion, dedication, and willingness to share your story without compensation is nothing short of remarkable. Your words and presence change lives.

Blessings to all! David Neill