The U.S. incarceration system is in crisis, believed by many to be burdened by racial disparities and social injustices that have long gone unchecked. For Michael Wing, a distinguished CEO, educator, attorney, and White House Fellow, this is not just unacceptable—it’s a call to action. With a career that spans leadership roles in global companies, impressive educational initiatives, and a deep commitment to social justice, Wing has dedicated his life to challenging the status quo. His latest work, The Incarceration Explosion: We Must Do Better, sheds light on the harsh realities of America’s sprawling prison system and offers a roadmap for systemic reform.
Wing’s personal journey is as compelling as his professional one. He has successfully served as President and CEO of 11 companies, including the global Swedish holding company ICH and the United States Space & Rocket Center. However, his work as an advocate for marginalized communities truly sets him apart. Alongside his wife, Victoria Junkins, a corporate professional and social activist, Wing has embarked on numerous initiatives to drive social change, focusing on those who have been historically disenfranchised.
According to Wing, the U.S. incarceration crisis is a multifaceted issue, with people of color disproportionately bearing the brunt of its impact. In this system, families are fractured, opportunities are lost, and a cycle of bias and stigma perpetuates long after release. Wing and Junkins confront these dire consequences head-on in The Incarceration Explosion. The book dissects the systemic failures that have led to mass incarceration and calls for a collective effort to mend a broken system. Their message is clear: regardless of faith, ideology, or background, it’s time to uphold American ideals and fight for justice.
Wing’s advocacy is not limited to his writing. As the former Executive Director of the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville, Alabama, he developed the highly regarded “Fifth Grade Program,” a week-long contextualized learning experience that made math, science, and technology come alive for students. This program, designed for fifth graders from at-risk home environments, exemplifies Wing’s commitment to eradicating “dream deserts” for children who have been historically marginalized. By making learning experiential and engaging, Wing helped shape the minds of future innovators and leaders.
In addition to his educational initiatives, Wing’s contributions to the criminal justice field are significant. His graduate work spans various subjects, including law, global affairs, criminal justice, public policy, and restorative justice. These diverse academic pursuits have given him a unique perspective on the challenges of the U.S. prison system. Wing’s expertise is not just theoretical; it’s rooted in a deep understanding of the societal impacts of incarceration and a passion for creating meaningful change.
Michael Wing’s career is marked by numerous accolades, including being named a White House Fellow by President George H. W. Bush in 1992. Yet his most significant achievement may be his ongoing efforts to advocate for those who have been silenced and marginalized by the justice system. Together with Junkins, he continues to push for policy changes that will reduce the stigma faced by formerly incarcerated individuals and create a more just society.
The Incarceration Explosion is more than just a book; it offers a thoughtful exploration of mass incarceration in the U.S. Wing’s work encourages readers to consider the impact of this issue and reflects on the country’s founding principles. By highlighting the racial disparities and social injustices within the U.S. prison system, Wing contributes to the ongoing conversation about creating a more equitable society.
Published By: Aize Perez
