NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker's personal views and understanding of religion and crime. We've flagged this talk because it falls outside the content guidelines TED gives TEDx organizers. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/t...

When you hear the term “super-predator,” what images come to mind? Ronnie Lillard explains how the media's portrayal of inner city youth as super predators influences how the public views juvenile offenders. Uncover the faults in the juvenile justice system and proposed solutions. Encouraged by his passion for his people and the love of music, under the moniker of Reconcile, Ronnie Lillard crafts messages for his generation. Digging into the recesses of a hardened heart and calloused hands he projected the pain of his past with honesty and energy. Truth resonated and the images that he captured of his hood while telling his story over a frenetic beat caught fire. Reconcile represents a void for hip hop. Raw. Unapologetic. Meaningful music. Reconcile’s words champion the forgotten and serves as the rhythm hidden in the pulse of those getting by on hope. Despite how heavy the cross to bear, Reconcile is willing to carry the weight until minds are set free. One soul at a time. Reconcile states “As I began seeking a real relationship with the Lord my life changed and the value of everything else in my life began to decrease as my desire and passion to know Jesus intimately and follow him grew." This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx