Transformative Learning With Mexican Cartel Members: An Exploration of Organized Crime Through Participatory Action Research in Prison

This article considers transformative education in prison as a tool to address cartel violence in Mexico. It begins by examining how the rise of democracy in Mexico is partially responsible for the expansion of organized crime. Data from a participatory action research project with twelve men incarcerated for cartel-related crimes is then used to explore the violence plaguing Mexico. Results emphasize the relevance of structural disparities and stigma as sociocultural barriers that favor the empowerment of organized crime. The article closes with reflections regarding the challenges for prison education in a country where cartels have significant control over the government.