Bitcoin is Good for Felons

Financial literacy is just as important in life as other basics needs. -John W. Rogers, Jr.

At Bitcoin Transformation Community (BTCTC), we believe Bitcoin is good for felons. In our manifesto, we build the case for providing financial literacy to incarcerated populations through a Bitcoin lens.

Why People Become Felons

Most crimes are committed for money. In the United States, the top 5 crimes are property (i.e., theft and unlawful destruction of property), larceny-theft, violent crimes, motor vehicle theft, and burglary. The root cause of most of these crimes is money. These crimes are committed for personal financial gain and/or drug-related reasons. Financial crimes (aka white-color crimes) such as embezzlement, money laundering, tax evasion, corporate fraud, securities and commodities fraud, and intellectual property theft are for personal financial gain. Human trafficking is often conducted due to economic vulnerability and lack of education. In other words, people rob, steal, commit fraud, murder, and traffic vulnerable humans, all for personal financial gain.

According to Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, a human’s physiological and safety needs must be met before higher needs are met (see image). If someone doesn’t have their basic needs, such as food, shelter, and safety, met, then they are inclined to commit crimes just to survive. People everywhere in the world need money to survive. How can we expect someone to feel loved, to love, to have self-worth, to seek personal growth, to take care of their families, or to be a productive member of society when they are hungry, homeless, on drugs, or rejected from society?

By default, people without their basic needs must develop an entrepreneurial hustle mindset to survive. This mindset may sometimes lead to a criminal lifestyle. If financial literacy were taught in schools starting at an early age, people would be empowered to make financial decisions, make smarter decisions, and choose earning opportunities that legally benefit them and their families. More educated people mean a reduction in crime and recidivism rates. The image below illustrates how a lack of education and financial literacy drives a life of crime, resulting in repeated incarceration and ensuring higher recidivism.

In the United States, the recidivism rates are astonishing at

44% 1 year after release

77% 5 years after release

83% 9-years after release

Some of the restrictions for people with felony records are:

they cannot gain employment and lack opportunities (unemployed)
they are often discriminated against when renting a home (homelessness)
the U.S. government doesn’t support people who have a felony record (restricted access to programs/funding)
their voting rights are taken away (voiceless)
they cannot serve on a jury (voiceless)

Recently, there has been an insurgence of programs and funding for reentry initiatives in the US. These programs support how a person in correctional confinement (aka incarceration) prepares for release and transitions into the community. The intent is to focus on each stage of the reentry process, increasing the odds that people returning home can successfully and productively remain in their community. Upon reentry into society, the focus is on desistance or the process of abstaining from crime by those with a previous pattern of offending.

Why Felons Will Stay Financially Illiterate

Many reentry and desistance initiatives incorporate financial literacy for incarcerated populations; however, they only address topics such as personal financial management, budgeting and investing within the current financial system based on the US dollar. All of these programs are based on fiat money that is government-issued and controlled currency such as the US dollar. Since the US dollar is debasing (aka losing purchasing power) year-over-year (see image) this is quickly becoming an antiquated approach to financial literacy and failing the incarcerated population participating in the programs. Reentry financial literacy programs are missing content related to current and near future financial solutions such as bitcoin, cryptocurrencies, and CBDC’s (Central Bank Digital Currency).

Bitcoin is a digital peer-to-peer currency that has been recognized as a commodity by the US Security & Exchange Commission. Bitcoin slated to be the only cryptocurrency integrated into the US financial system as a Bitcoin ETF (exchange-traded fund). Holding Bitcoin can hedge against inflation, which is very important for citizens to understand as they reenter society.

Cryptocurrencies (aka crypto) are any form of currency that exists digitally or virtually and uses cryptography to secure transactions.

Cryptocurrencies don’t have a central issuing or regulating authority, instead using a decentralized system to record transactions and issue new units. To date, there are more than 23,000 cryptocurrencies available to purchase and trade. Bitcoin is the only cryptocurrency that is not issued, owned, controlled, or managed by a centralized party such as a government, bank, institution, Venture Capitalist, family, or wealthy individual. Bitcoin is issued and managed by THE PEOPLE via consensus! That is why we consider Bitcoin to be the perfect freedom money! To us Bitcoin is the only signal and all other cryptocurrencies are noise. We will not and do not discuss any other crypto. Referring to the image below, people often confuse Bitcoin with the other 23,000 cryptos, but in reality, Bitcoin is the only truly non-controlled money unlike crypto and fiat (USD).

CBDC’s are digital currencies that will be offered, held, managed, and governed by the Federal Reserve. The Federal Reserve is not a government entity but serves as the US national central bank and reports to the US Congress. Thus, in the near future, US citizens’ digital currency will be issued and governed by a non-government agency, ensuring citizens are not sovereign individuals. CBDCs are a governmental control mechanism being implemented across the globe! We recommend reading The Creature from Jekyll Island to learn more about the Federal Reserve.

In our From Bars to Bitcoin Program, we conduct a deep dive into the value, legal use cases, and application of Bitcoin. We do mention cryptocurrencies and CBDCs as part of the near future financial landscape to build awareness, but it is against our ethos of fostering financial sovereignty and independence to provide a comprehensive curriculum on the topics.

In the end, many of the current reentry financial literacy programs are not setting up formerly incarcerated people for success because they will need to re-offend to survive since the US dollar consistently loses purchasing power. We will probably see an increase in the incarceration rate because more people will become desperate and become first-time offenders just to have money to survive in an economy with a debasing currency. Without basic needs, education, and sustainable financial literacy, people are statistically likely to live a life of crime perpetually and become repeat offenders, yielding unsafe communities and unproductive and unhappy citizens. But there is hope!

Bitcoin Fixes This

Incarceration is not only a period of punitive confinement but also an opportunity for rehabilitation and personal growth. Recognizing the transformative power of education, we advocate for the inclusion of Bitcoin education in correctional facilities. This manifesto outlines why incarcerated individuals should be educated about Bitcoin, aiming to empower them with knowledge and skills for a more promising future.

We know there is a myriad of internal factors (e.g., mental health, physical health, mindset, expectations, etc.) and external factors (e.g., social, educational opportunities, financial availability, etc.) that lead to people becoming felons. We also know that if we fix the money, all of these other factors will be eliminated or significantly reduced because broken money is the root cause. Enter bitcoin!

But Bitcoin Sucks!

Let’s start by defining bitcoin:

Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency that was created by an unknown person or group of people using the pseudonym “Satoshi Nakamoto” in 2008. It was introduced as an open-source software in a whitepaper titled “Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System.” The software was released in 2009.

Essentially, Bitcoin is nothing more than unhackable computer code that was designed to issue a fixed supply of coins (21,000,000) across time until year 2140. It is built on a blockchain architecture that is managed by anyone across the globe who cares to contribute and participate. It is permissionless; thus, not controlled by a central authority (i.e., government, bank, or single person). One of the ecosystem’s many incentives and humanitarian features is that Bitcoin has no systemic prejudice built in. Anyone in the world, regardless of race, age, gender, sexual orientation, location, financial circumstances, level of education, felony record, influence, or power, can participate in the Bitcoin ecosystem. Another humanitarian feature is that anyone with a computer and internet connection can mine Bitcoin or create new coins (i.e., a simple way of saying run a computer program to generate new coins for the ecosystem), purchase bitcoin, and spend Bitcoin anonymously. In other words, all people are equal in the Bitcoin ecosystem! All of the incentives and humanitarian features are what makes Bitcoin perfect money, and all the underlying technical nuances are enabling features.

Since its inception in 2008, a relatively negative public perception of Bitcoin has been woven into public consciousness. Many people think Bitcoin sucks – for a variety of reasons. With Bitcoin, we started on the wrong foot because it was a new technology by an unknown creator, not fully understood, and unregulated, with no real use cases established yet. But that’s okay because the world is beginning to pivot and learn about Bitcoin. Now we have more established use cases and can demonstrate the real humanitarian value while halting inhumane and illicit activities through regulation.

Bitcoin has gained significant attention, and various myths and misconceptions have emerged along with its popularity. It’s essential to separate reality from fiction when understanding that Bitcoin does not suck.

Below are some common myths and counterfactuals and the underlying reality. There are much more nuanced details underlying each myth and reality listed below. We recommend you do your own research if you’d like more information about each myth and the reality.

Bitcoin is like all other cryptocurrencies

Myth: There is no difference between Bitcoin and all other cryptocurrencies.

Reality: Bitcoin is different from other cryptocurrencies in several key aspects, and these distinctions contribute to its unique position in the digital currency landscape. Here are some of the primary differences between Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies:
- First-mover Advantage: Bitcoin is the first cryptocurrency ever created, introduced by an unknown person or group of people using the pseudonym Satoshi Nakamoto in 2009. Its early adoption and recognition have given it a significant first-mover advantage over other cryptocurrencies. From a market perspective, all other cryptocurrencies follow the market leader – bitcoin!
- Decentralization: Bitcoin operates on a decentralized network of nodes and computers that validate transactions and maintain the blockchain. This decentralization is a fundamental aspect of Bitcoin and distinguishes it from some other cryptocurrencies that may have different consensus mechanisms or levels of centralization.
- Scarcity and Capped Supply: Bitcoin has a capped supply of 21 million coins, creating a sense of scarcity similar to precious metals like gold. This feature is designed to mitigate inflationary pressures and is often cited as a reason for Bitcoin’s potential as a store of value.
- Proof-of-Work Consensus: Bitcoin uses a proof-of-work consensus algorithm, where miners solve complex mathematical problems to validate transactions and add new blocks to the blockchain. This process requires significant computational power and contributes to the network’s security. Many other cryptocurrencies use alternative consensus mechanisms like proof-of-stake or delegated proof-of-stake.
- Store of Value Narrative: Bitcoin is often positioned as a “digital gold” and a store of value. This narrative emphasizes Bitcoin’s ability to preserve wealth over time, and it has become a common use case for the cryptocurrency. Other cryptocurrencies may focus on different use cases, such as smart contracts, privacy, or fast transaction speeds.
- Market Dominance: Bitcoin has the highest market capitalization and liquidity among all cryptocurrencies. It is often used as a benchmark for the overall performance of the cryptocurrency market. “Bitcoin dominance” refers to the percentage of the total cryptocurrency market capitalization that Bitcoin represents.
- Conservative Development Approach: Bitcoin’s development community generally follows a more conservative approach to updates and changes. Changes to the Bitcoin protocol require broad consensus and a strong emphasis on stability and security. Some other cryptocurrencies may experiment with more frequent updates and new features.
- Recognition and Adoption: Bitcoin is the most widely recognized and accepted cryptocurrency. It has gained institutional interest, is accepted by various merchants, and is often the entry point for individuals entering the cryptocurrency space. Other cryptocurrencies may have different levels of recognition and adoption.

While Bitcoin has these unique characteristics, the cryptocurrency space is dynamic, and numerous other cryptocurrencies, often referred to as altcoins, offer different features and use cases.

Bitcoin is Anonymous

Myth: Bitcoin transactions are often considered completely anonymous and untraceable.
Reality: Bitcoin transactions are recorded on a public ledger called the blockchain, but the identities of the people involved in transactions are pseudonymous. Bitcoin transactions are pseudonymous, meaning they are linked to addresses rather than directly to individuals. While addresses are recorded, they do not directly reveal the identity of users. With the right tools and techniques, tracing and analyzing transactions is possible. This characteristic can be attractive to those seeking a degree of privacy, including criminals. Unlike the US dollar, if you find cash, you cannot know to whom it belongs. If someone committed an illegal transaction with cash, it’s nearly impossible to know who made that transaction, but with Bitcoin’s traceability, the individual can be found from the address.

Bitcoin is Used Only for Illegal Activities

Myth: Bitcoin is often associated with illicit activities like money laundering, buying illegal goods, and conducting criminal activity.

Reality: Like the US dollar, while Bitcoin has been used for illicit purposes in the past, most of its use is legitimate. Many individuals and businesses use Bitcoin for legal and transparent transactions. One of the early associations with Bitcoin was its use in illegal activities, partly due to its pseudonymous nature. However, most Bitcoin transactions are legal, and the technology has gained wider acceptance in various industries.

In October 2023, US Senator Cynthia Lummis shared that less than 1% of global illicit finance activity was conducted with crypto assets, some of which is bitcoin, while the remaining ~99% was funded by fiat currency from various countries, including the US dollar (see image below).

As a matter of Reality, the US government holds ~$5 billion worth of seized bitcoin.

Bitcoin is for Criminals

Myth: Bitcoin is often portrayed as a tool for criminals due to its pseudonymous nature.

Reality: While Bitcoin has been used in some criminal activities, it is also widely used for legitimate purposes. Many law-abiding individuals, businesses, and investors use Bitcoin in their financial activities. The technology behind Bitcoin, blockchain, can be complex and is not well-understood by the general public. This lack of understanding can lead to misconceptions, including believing that Bitcoin is inherently linked to criminal activities.

Bitcoin is a Bubble

Myth: Some argue that Bitcoin is a speculative bubble that will eventually burst.

Reality: Some critics argue that Bitcoin is a speculative bubble that will eventually burst, similar to historical instances like the dot-com bubble. The value of Bitcoin has experienced significant volatility, but labeling it as a bubble oversimplifies the complex factors influencing its price. While Bitcoin has experienced price volatility, it has also demonstrated resilience and continued to attract interest from institutional investors and mainstream financial institutions.

Bitcoin is Too Volatile for Practical Use

Myth: Bitcoin’s price volatility makes it impractical for everyday transactions.

Reality: Bitcoin’s price volatility has led to concerns that it could be used for pump-and-dump schemes or other fraudulent investment activities. Speculative trading and the potential for quick gains can attract individuals with less-than-ethical intentions. Rapid and unpredictable price fluctuations can contribute to FUD. Sharp declines in the value of Bitcoin may lead to concerns about its stability and suitability as an investment. Bitcoin’s volatility concerns some, but its use as a store of value and a medium of exchange continues to grow.

Bitcoin is Controlled by a Single Entity

Myth: Some believe that a single entity or a small group of wealthy individuals controls Bitcoin.

Reality: Bitcoin operates on a decentralized network of nodes, and no single entity controls the entire network. Changes to the Bitcoin protocol require consensus among the network participants. Regardless of the number of coins one owns or the amount of money they have invested into the Bitcoin ecosystem, no one can control the Bitcoin ecosystem.

Bitcoin Has No Intrinsic Value

Myth: Critics argue that Bitcoin has no intrinsic value and is, therefore, worthless.

Reality: While Bitcoin is not backed by physical assets like gold, its value is derived from the scarcity of its supply (capped at 21 million coins), utility as a decentralized digital currency, and the trust placed in its network. Bitcoin doesn’t have intrinsic value like a physical commodity (e.g., wheat, cattle, oil, glass, gold, silver, aluminum, etc.), it has value as a decentralized and censorship-resistant form of money. Every 4-years the Bitcoin supply is halved and the supply available on the market is reduced which contributes to the scarcity built into the Bitcoin protocol.

Bitcoin is Only for Tech-Savvy Individuals

Myth: Some people believe using Bitcoin is complicated and requires technical expertise.

Reality: Bitcoin wallets and exchanges have become more user-friendly over time, making them accessible to a broader range of individuals. Many apps and platforms make buying, storing, and using Bitcoin relatively straightforward. The most popular mainstream financial services platforms, such as CashApp, offers Bitcoin purchasing and transaction features.

Bitcoin is Just a Ponzi Scheme

Myth: Some compare Bitcoin to a Ponzi scheme, suggesting that early adopters benefit at the expense of later investors.

Reality: A Ponzi scheme relies on continuous investments to pay returns to earlier investors, while Bitcoin is a decentralized digital currency with a transparent and open-source code. Early adopters may have seen significant gains, but Bitcoin operates on market principles and is not designed to defraud participants. Some people see Bitcoin as a quick way to get rich. While the value of Bitcoin has appreciated significantly over the years, it is important to understand the risks associated with investing in any asset. Prices can be highly volatile, and there are no guarantees of profit.

Bitcoin’s Lack of Regulation Means Illegitimacy

Myth: The decentralized and borderless nature of Bitcoin has led some to believe that it operates outside the bounds of regulation and legality.

Reality: In reality, many countries are developing or have developed regulatory frameworks for Bitcoin to ensure consumer protection and prevent illegal activities. In the early days of Bitcoin, it was used on darknet marketplaces for illegal activities such as drug trafficking and weapons purchases. The relative lack of regulation and oversight in the early years of Bitcoin contributed to its association with criminality.

It’s important to note that, over time, efforts have been made to increase the regulatory environment surrounding Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies. Governments and financial institutions are working on implementing measures to monitor and regulate transactions, which may help alleviate some of the concerns related to illicit activities. As the Bitcoin ecosystem matures, there is potential for a shift in the perception of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies away from their association with criminality. News or speculation about regulatory crackdowns on Bitcoin in various countries can lead to FUD. Regulatory uncertainty can create fear among investors and prompt them to sell off their holdings.

Media Coverage is Negative about Bitcoin

Myth: High-profile criminal cases involving Bitcoin, such as ransomware attacks where criminals demand payment in Bitcoin, have received extensive media coverage. These incidents contribute to the perception that Bitcoin is primarily used for illegal activities.

Reality: Sensational or biased media coverage can play a significant role in spreading FUD. Misleading or inaccurate reporting about Bitcoin can shape public perception and contribute to fear and uncertainty. It’s important for investors and the general public to critically evaluate information, consider multiple perspectives, and stay informed about developments in the Bitcoin space. A variety of factors can fuel FUD, and separating Reality from speculation is crucial in forming a well-informed opinion about the state of the market and the technology.

Bitcoin has been Associated with Security Breaches

Myth: Incidents of hacking, security breaches, or vulnerabilities in cryptocurrency exchanges or wallets can generate FUD.

Reality: Sensational high-profile cases of theft or loss of funds can erode confidence in the security of Bitcoin.

Bitcoin’s Environmental Impact is Excessive

Myth: Criticisms of Bitcoin’s environmental impact due to the energy-intensive process of mining can lead to negative sentiments. Environmental FUD has raised questions about the sustainability of Bitcoin and its long-term viability.

Reality: Bitcoin mining (i.e., the process of generating new bitcoin), validating transactions, and securing the network does consume energy but does not have the consumption level reported on media. The extent of this impact is exaggerated because people are fearful of what they do not know. Much Bitcoin mining employs stranded energy and is actually good for ESG initiatives. Miners are increasingly exploring more energy-efficient methods, and the Bitcoin ecosystem as a whole is working on adopting sustainable practices.

Bitcoin is Not Trustworthy Because it is Vulnerable to Hacks

Myth: Bitcoin can be hacked because exchanges have been hacked, and people have lost their bitcoin from wallets.

Reality: While there have been instances of exchanges and wallets being hacked, the Bitcoin network has proven robust and resistant to attacks. The security of Bitcoin largely depends on the practices of individual users and the platforms they use. As a decentralized blockchain network, Bitcoin has not been hacked since its inception in 2009. However, various aspects related to Bitcoin can be vulnerable to hacks or security breaches. Here are some points to consider regarding potential vulnerabilities associated with Bitcoin:
- Wallet Security: The security of Bitcoin holdings largely depends on the security practices of individual users. Bitcoin is stored in digital wallets, and if these wallets are not adequately secured, they can be susceptible to hacks. Common security measures include using hardware wallets, employing strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and keeping private keys secure.
- Exchange Vulnerabilities: Bitcoin exchanges, platforms where users can buy, sell, and trade Bitcoin, have been targets for hacks and security breaches. If exchanges do not implement robust security measures, such as cold storage solutions, multi-signature wallets, and regular security audits, they can be vulnerable to hacking attempts. Several high-profile exchange hacks have occurred over the years, resulting in significant losses.
- Phishing Attacks: Phishing attacks targeting Bitcoin users are a common tactic used by hackers. Scammers may create fake websites, emails, or social media profiles designed to mimic legitimate Bitcoin services or platforms. Unsuspecting users may inadvertently provide sensitive information, such as private keys or login credentials, to malicious actors.
- Malware and Keyloggers: Malicious software, including keyloggers and malware, can compromise the security of devices used to access Bitcoin wallets or conduct transactions. Hackers may use malware to steal private keys, access wallets, or monitor user activity, leading to unauthorized transactions and theft.
- Network Vulnerabilities: While the Bitcoin network has not been hacked, underlying technologies or protocol vulnerabilities could pose risks. Developers and security researchers continuously monitor the Bitcoin protocol for vulnerabilities and release updates to address any identified issues.
- Social Engineering Attacks: Hackers may employ social engineering tactics to manipulate individuals into revealing sensitive information or performing actions that compromise their Bitcoin holdings. This could include impersonating trusted individuals, creating false emergencies, or exploiting human psychology to deceive users.
- Scalability Issues: Discussions about the scalability of Bitcoin and the limitations of its transaction processing speed can contribute to uncertainty. Concerns about the ability of the network to handle a growing user base may create doubt about its long-term viability.
- Competing Technologies: Emerging technologies and cryptocurrencies that claim to offer improvements over Bitcoin may generate FUD. Competing narratives about the superiority of alternative technologies can cast doubt on Bitcoin’s dominance in the cryptocurrency space.

It’s essential to note that while these vulnerabilities exist, many individuals and organizations within the Bitcoin ecosystem are dedicated to improving security practices, developing secure technologies, and raising awareness about potential risks. By implementing best practices for security and remaining vigilant against threats, users can help mitigate the risk of hacks and protect their Bitcoin assets.

Understanding the realities of Bitcoin is crucial for making informed decisions about its use and potential impact on the financial landscape.

Why We Must Provide Bitcoin Education to Felons

As mentioned at the beginning of our manifesto, many incarcerated people have developed an entrepreneurial-hustle mindset. In the spirit of entrepreneurship, Bitcoin literacy is a mechanism to conduct business in a law-abiding way. Since Bitcoin has strong traceability (more than the US dollar), it deceives people from using it for illicit activities, unlike the US dollar.

Some of the benefits of educating incarcerated populations about Bitcoin are:

Inclusion: Bitcoin can provide financial services to unbanked or underbanked individuals, offering people with felony records access to new markets and customer bases. This is particularly relevant to those who experience systemic prejudice in the traditional banking infrastructure.
Decentralization: Bitcoin operates on a decentralized network, reducing reliance on centralized authorities such as banks. This can enhance financial resilience for those with records, mitigating the risk of disruptions from traditional financial institutions.
Transparent Transactions: Bitcoin transactions are recorded on a public ledger (blockchain), providing transparency and traceability. This transparency can be appealing to customers who value visibility into the supply chain or transaction history.
Ownership and Control: Bitcoin allows individuals to have direct ownership and control over their funds. Those with records can manage their financial resources independently without relying on traditional financial institutions.
Hedging Against Inflation: Some people view Bitcoin as a store of value and a hedge against traditional financial market fluctuations and inflation. Holding a portion of assets in Bitcoin can provide diversification in investment portfolios.
Customer Payment Options: Accepting Bitcoin as a payment option can attract a segment of customers who prefer using cryptocurrency. This can broaden the customer base and enhance payment flexibility.

Educating those with a felony record about Bitcoin can have several potential benefits, aligning with broader goals of rehabilitation, education, and reintegration into society:

Financial Literacy: Incorporating Bitcoin education can enhance financial literacy among incarcerated individuals. Understanding digital currencies and decentralized systems can empower them to make more informed financial decisions inside and outside prison. Inmates will gain insights into the near future financial landscape and no longer be left behind! Empowering inmates with financial knowledge prepares them to make informed decisions upon reintegration, leading to greater economic independence.
Reintegration into Society: Providing education on emerging technologies like Bitcoin can contribute to the reintegration of inmates into society. It equips them with knowledge that may be relevant in the modern job market, especially in fields related to technology and finance. Knowledge of Bitcoin can be leveraged for legal and ethical means, reducing the likelihood of engaging in criminal activities post-release.
Skill Development & Employment Opportunities: Learning about Bitcoin can provide inmates with valuable marketable and competitive skills. They can parlay existing skills or learn new skills that can be employed within the emerging Bitcoin ecosystem. Learning about Bitcoin will provide incarcerated individuals with increasingly demanding skills in the job market. Access to Bitcoin education opens new avenues for employment and entrepreneurship, contributing to the development of a technologically literate workforce.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Bitcoin education will inspire entrepreneurial thinking. Inmates who learn about Bitcoin will see potential opportunities to start businesses or engage in projects related to Bitcoin upon their release. Bitcoin education encourages entrepreneurial thinking and innovation, inspiring inmates to explore business opportunities within the Bitcoin ecosystem. Fostering an entrepreneurial mindset empowers individuals to envision and pursue alternative paths to success upon release.
Preventing Financial Exploitation: Educating inmates about Bitcoin can help protect them from potential scams and fraud involving Bitcoin. Understanding the risks associated with emergency technology and currency can empower them to make safer financial choices. Increased awareness about potential risks promotes financial responsibility and protects individuals from exploitation.
Technological Rehabilitation: Integrating Bitcoin education can be part of a broader effort to rehabilitate individuals with a focus on technology. This may provide a sense of intellectual engagement, personal development, and connection to the rapidly evolving global digital transformation so they are not left behind. Providing access to education on cutting-edge topics will contribute to a sense of intellectual engagement and personal development. Exposure to emerging technologies contributes to personal development and a sense of purpose during incarceration.
Legal Compliance & Knowledge of Rights: Providing inmates with knowledge about the legal aspects of Bitcoin transactions can help them navigate the regulatory landscape and avoid engaging in illegal activities related to Bitcoin. Knowledge about the legal implications of using Bitcoin will help them stay compliant with financial regulations and avoid engaging in activities that could lead to legal consequences. Knowledge about legal rights and responsibilities enhances the ability to make lawful and informed financial decisions.
Reducing Recidivism: Education, in general, has been shown to reduce recidivism rates. By offering inmates the opportunity to learn about new technologies like Bitcoin, correctional facilities can break criminal behavior cycles and promote a more positive return to society.
Behavioral Impact: Learning about Bitcoin will positively impact inmates’ behavior by fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility. It will contribute to a more positive prison environment and culture.

In summary, Bitcoin education in correctional facilities represents an investment in incarcerated individuals’ intellectual and financial empowerment. By embracing this educational initiative, we strive to contribute to the rehabilitation, resilience, and reintegration of individuals into society, fostering a more technologically literate and economically independent community. Bitcoin is a life-long hope!

Why Bitcoin Transformation Community

Why Bitcoin Transformation Community (BTCTC)? We are a black and female minority-owned non-profit. We are formally incarcerated. We have decades of learning and development experience. We have certified financial expertise. We have experienced systemic racism, sexism, and ageism. We have all been transformed by Bitcoin and are on a mission to help others find financial sovereignty.

We work at the intersection of Bitcoin and prison reform.

Much how Bitcoin mining employs wasted or stranded environmental energy, we employ wasted human capital energy to drive the Bitcoin ecosystem and enrich lives.

Through our efforts and our funding partners, we are tackling massive systemic problems illustrated in the image below. We are a community because it takes a village to move the needles systematically.

Our impact is measurable and significant. We provide transparent impact data on a quarterly basis to our funders, donors, and community.

If you are inclined, please join our community and/or donate to us! We are always seeking bitcoins who want to teach in correctional facilities in person and virtually alongside us. Feel free to contact us and share your transformation story!