Many times, I left the prison thinking, 'I'm smart. I can make it. I won't get caught up again.' But you get off downtown Skid Row, and you're a target for all of the environmental harms in that area. The pain and trauma in that area is so thick, you can almost reach your hand out and touch it.

Susan Burton’s quote highlights the cycle of re-incarceration and the challenges of reintegrating into society after prison. She describes how, despite feeling empowered and confident after leaving prison, the harsh realities of life on Skid Row—an area notorious for its high levels of poverty and homelessness—create an environment that makes it difficult to stay out of trouble. Burton acknowledges that, while she may have felt smart and capable of avoiding re-offending, the environmental conditions in places like Skid Row act as a trap that pulls individuals back into difficult circumstances.

The mention of environmental harms refers to the social and physical conditions in communities like Skid Row, where poverty, substance abuse, and violence are prevalent. These environmental factors create a traumatic atmosphere that makes it incredibly difficult for individuals to escape their past experiences and move forward. Burton emphasizes that the pain and trauma in such areas are so pervasive that they seem almost tangible, something one can feel and experience deeply, making it hard to break free from the cycle of hardship.

Burton’s statement reflects her understanding of the interconnectedness of social environments and personal struggles. She points out that even with the desire to change and move forward, the challenges of economic instability and lack of support systems in marginalized areas often lead people back into harmful behaviors. This highlights the larger issue of systemic inequality and the need for better rehabilitation and social support for individuals who have been incarcerated.

Ultimately, Burton’s quote sheds light on the complex realities faced by formerly incarcerated individuals trying to reintegrate into society. It speaks to the deep-rooted social trauma that affects many communities, particularly those with high concentrations of poverty, and the importance of addressing not just individual behavior but the larger environmental and social factors that contribute to the ongoing struggles people face after incarceration.