National Coalition
BE PART OF THE
85 TO STAY ALIVE COALITION
STEERING COMMITTEE
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to advocate for the abolishment of inhumane temperature conditions within all prison systems and facilities. We are committed to the establishment of a universal temperature standard that ensures the safety and well-being of incarcerated individuals. This includes the development and implementation of effective methodologies to regulate and maintain safe temperatures in all correctional facilities, ensuring that no one is subjected to the dangers of extreme heat.
The Driving Force Behind the 85 to Stay Alive Coalition!
We’re proud to introduce the TPCA Steering Committee members who passionately advocate for meaningful change. Each member brings unique insights and deep dedication to our mission of improving conditions and upholding justice within Texas.
Dr. Amite Dominick, Founder and President of Texas Prisons Community Advocates (TPCA), is chairing the 85 to Stay Alive Steering Committee. A passionate advocate for justice reform, Dr. Dominick has dedicated her career to addressing systemic injustices within the Texas prison system. Under her leadership, TPCA champions efforts to improve the lives of system-impacted individuals and their families.
As chair, she guides the 85 to Stay Alive initiative, fostering collaboration and empowering communities to advocate for meaningful changes in prison policies and practices across Texas.
Pastor Eddie Andre Deckard, Founder and Senior Pastor of Green House International Church in Houston, Texas, is a dedicated minister, entrepreneur, and community advocate with over two decades of service. Beginning his journey mentoring youth in Houston’s Fifth Ward, Pastor Deckard has since led multiple congregations and founded Green House International Church in 2007 with his wife, Sandra.
His unique style has reached people nationwide through radio, television, and publications, including his “Forward Thinking” column in Houston Forward Times, where he addresses social issues and encourages community involvement. A committed supporter of the "End Mass Incarceration Houston" initiative, Pastor Deckard actively works to raise awareness of systemic injustices impacting minority communities.
Pastor Deckard is passionate about encouraging the faith community to take a more active role in addressing the crucial issues highlighted by the 85 to Stay Alive campaign. He believes that faith leaders and congregations have a vital part to play in advocating for humane treatment, accountability, and equitable conditions within the justice system.
In addition to his spiritual work, Pastor Deckard is deeply involved in civic efforts as a member of the NAACP, the Kingdom Builders Global Fellowship, and the Black Male Summit. His visionary leadership inspires others to effect positive change, making him an integral part of TPCA's mission.
Chivas Watson is a prominent community leader, organizer, entrepreneur, and educator dedicated to advancing social justice and reform. As the founder and director of WorkingGroup512 (WG512), a Texas-based service agency, he focuses on enhancing justice delivery by addressing community challenges and providing essential resources to those in need.
His unique experience as an “inmate lawyer” greatly informed his criminal justice reform work. While incarcerated in 2020, Chivas tirelessly worked on approximately 515 cases over 378 days, successfully aiding 110 men in securing their release, including his own, before being wrongfully convicted.
Operating across Houston, Dallas, Abilene, and San Antonio, Chivas catalyzes innovative projects and initiatives through his consultancy, United Consulting, based in Austin, TX. He also serves as the End Mass Incarceration reporter for KPFT 90.1 FM's The Prison Show and is Indeed.com's Fair Chance Hiring spokesperson. His work with TPCA and our #85ToStayAlive campaign has proven to be invaluable.
Recognized as a City of Austin Net-Zero Hero, Chivas champions prison reform, re-entry services, and the urgent need for the release of incarcerated individuals, tirelessly working towards a more equitable and just society for all.
Tangi Smith, a dedicated community leader raised in the Third Ward’s Cuney Homes, brings a lifetime of experience in community service and advocacy to TPCA. Inspired by her grandmother, Olivia Sholars, and local organizer Ruby Mosley, Tangi learned early how to uplift her community. From coordinating hurricane relief efforts to organizing senior citizen support, her hands-on experience laid the groundwork for her later achievements.
With a background in journalism and public service, Tangi has worked with influential figures and community-based organizations, honing her skills in writing, activism, and outreach. She is an active member of the Texas Organizing Project and holds a leadership role with KPFT Community Radio's Advisory Board. Her efforts culminated in founding the Texas Federation of the People, dedicated to ensuring safe communities, fair wages, and family reunification for system-impacted individuals.
Tangi’s commitment to justice and community empowerment continues to drive her contributions to TPCA’s mission.