Topic: Prison Reform
Guest Commentary: My Message For Joe Biden
The Abolitionist Law Center’s executive director met with members of the Biden administration in D.C. this week. Here’s his advice for how the president can change his mass incarceration rep
By Robert Saleem HolbrookCan Philadelphia Correct … our Corrections?
The City’s new approach to the drug trade in Kensington could send increasing numbers of people to city jails. How will that square with the prison department’s ongoing staffing crisis?
By Malcolm BurnleySentences for the Sentenced
West Philly non-profit Books Through Bars has provided the incarcerated with books for more than 30 years. Now, with growing inaccessibility, its work is needed more than ever
By Norah RamiWhy Is Tyree Wallace Still in Prison?
Despite high-profile efforts of advocates like sports reporter Michael Barkann, the Point Breeze native has spent 26 years imprisoned for a murder witnesses say he didn’t commit. That hasn’t stopped the citizen activist from serving others
By Christina GriffithTreating Addiction Behind Bars
More than 60 percent of people incarcerated in the U.S. suffer from addiction. Philadelphia jails could offer a model for helping them get — and stay — sober
By Courtney DuCheneListen: Ali Velshi on Cash Bail
In the U.S., defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. So, why are half a million Americans stuck in jail, awaiting their court date?
By Ali VelshiA Local Experiment in Scandinavian Justice
An ongoing research study at the state prison in Chester is looking at how Scandinavian-style changes could make prison safer, more productive and more effective — for inmates, workers and the community.
By Christina GriffithWatch: Fixing the Prison Industrial Complex
Author Piper Kerman and Reform Alliance CEO Robert Rooks on achieving what is achievable: safety and reform
Healing Past the Trauma
An intergenerational therapy program for formerly incarcerated men with violent pasts strives to help everyone thrive post-incarceration. Could it be a path to less gun violence?
By Jo PiazzaIdeas We Should Steal: Reason to Run
An Oregon-based prison running program is helping incarcerated women with their mental and physical health, while giving them tools that discourage recidivism. Could it do the same in Philly?
By Chaundra Furin-Campbell