This 3-session class will provide 1) a background in the history of why the United States has one of highest incarceration rates of any democracy; 2) a discussion on the quality of life for those currently incarcerated and the efforts to improve the culture and programming of life inside to provide pathways for prepared and safe release. There will be a presentation of current legislation to reduce mass incarceration through restorative practices, bail and parole reform, juvenile lifers, second look legislation, and good time credits; and 3) a discussion of the challenges of those who reenter our communities such as job and housing discrimination, registries and tethers and the legislative efforts to provide successful outcomes for those returning.
Carolyn Madden is a former lecturer and Associate Director of the English Language Institute, University of Michigan. She is currently a board member of Friends of Restorative Justice.
