26 Father Greg Boyle on Reducing Gang Violence through Radical Kinship at Homeboy Industries

For the past thirty years, Father Greg Boyle has made it his mission to heal those afflicted by the epidemic of gang violence. As the founder of Homeboy Industries, the largest gang intervention, rehab and reentry program in the world, Father Greg has been instrumental in turning the tide on violent crime in Los Angeles and beyond. The secret to his success begins with reframing the question typically posed by well-meaning social servants. Instead of asking “how can we serve gang members?” Father Greg asks: “how can we stand with them, in awe of the pain they carry, and allow ourselves to be reached by them?”
Father Greg, a Jesuit Priest who affectionately refers to his flock of recovering gang members as his “homies,” would argue the centerpiece of what homeboy does is provide the space for “exquisite mutuality” to provide the framework necessary for healing from trauma.
Lorne’s interview with Father Greg took place on location at Homeboy. As much as he had absorbed about Homeboy’s culture of “radical kinship,” he was still unprepared for the joyfully kinetic energy coursing through its bustling, light-filled headquarters.
The place was teeming with men and women of all ages engaged in both casual conversations and impassioned heart-to-hearts. At the center of the communal action was Father Greg’s glass-encased office, which he seems to occupy only occasionally. To find Father Greg, search the crowd. He’ll be there, doling out bear hugs and giving his undivided attention to anyone in need. There never seemed to be any shortage of takers.
Father Greg exhibits a striking generosity of spirit. But Lorne couldn’t help seeing him as the artist, and was determined to explore with him the creative nature of his work. Given his modesty, he initially resisted the notion. But by the end of the interview, a number of striking parallels emerged.  
Links mentioned:
https://homeboyindustries.org/
https://www.amazon.com/Barking-Choir-Power-Radical-Kinship/dp/1476726159
https://www.amazon.com/Tattoos-Heart-Power-Boundless-Compassion/dp/1439153159/ref=pd_bxgy_14_img_2/136-7784137-0791013?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=1439153159&pd_rd_r=8f4f74ae-7cd8-11e9-ba98-0ff29dc49ff2&pd_rd_w=hM8Jy&pd_rd_wg=6FlCF&pf_rd_p=a2006322-0bc0-4db9-a08e-d168c18ce6f0&pf_rd_r=05B0AYAJB0JEVF778649&psc=1&refRID=05B0AYAJB0JEVF778649