A Warning and a Call to Action
Tragedy and Betrayal
It is tragic story of generational trauma set in the rich cultural background of New Mexico.
In January 2013, Regina’s fifteen-year-old old nephew shot and killed his father (her brother), mother and three siblings. She became her nephew’s guardian and stood by him through seven years of legal drama. In this memoir, Regina recounts her very difficult and personal story that affected her large extended family and entire community. This is a story of courage and conviction as well as love, compassion, and hope. This memoir is both a warning and a call to action for families, communities, and our nation.
Regina’s intent is to reach people facing personal situations that feel insurmountable and provide solace in the realization that others have experienced very difficult situations. The book demonstrates strategies and tactics on how to carry such difficult burdens and become stronger and more resilient for having traveled the journey. It also provides insight into the critical systems that contribute to the health and well-being of children and society, in particular our Juvenile Justice System. It provides a story of gun violence for those who have experienced gun violence or are advocates of gun safety.
80% of all royalties earned from this book will be donated equally to Everytown for Gun Safety (https://www.everytown.org) and the Campaign for the Fair Sentencing of Youth (https://cfsy.org).
Download a paper on Personal Resilience Measures here.
“Rarely do we have an opportunity to delve deeply into the intricacy of the human mind and the ways that family relationships respond to the horror of trauma. This book, written with clarity and raw honesty, invites us to hold space for complexity, uncertainty, and reminds us of the redemptive power of compassion, forgiveness, and love.”
“In Sins of the System, Dr. Griego offers an intimate window into the heartbreaking tragedy of youth violence, and an inspiring vision of the healing we can experience when we do not settle for mere retribution, but instead engage in the redemptive work of nurturing compassion, even for children who have caused great harm.”
“The inside story of Regina’s journey through gun violence, the family trauma and the judicial system shouldn’t be missed. You will be astonished at the inner workings of the juvenile court system and how difficult it is to navigate.”