Columbia University is partnering with Riker's
To provide a bridge between those affected by criminal justice laws
Columbia University is partnering with Riker's in order to provide a bridge between those affected by criminal justice laws and the people that create criminal policy. The Inside Criminal Justice course brings together recently released individuals and assistant district attorneys to discuss criminal justice reform.
This is a joint venture between the Center for Justice at Columbia University, the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, and Manhattan District Attorney Academy. The ultimate goal of this venture is to, “in-depth and respectful conversation’ between prosecutors and those on the receiving end of the justice system."
The coursework includes readings on critical race theory such as, The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander and introspective work such as writing a letter to their future selves.
In addition to this work, Teachers College at Columbia University offers free re-entry group counseling for individuals recently released from prison. This offers a unique space for the recently released to process their emotions as well as adjust to their newfound freedoms. Successful re-entry into civil society can look different for many individuals i.e. securing housing, becoming a parent, finding a job, starting over. The goal of the group therapy program to support the individual throughout their own personal journey.
More information can be found here: https://gothamist.com/news/a-class-that-brings-manhattan-prosecutors-together-with-incarcerated-men