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AbstractThe disproportionate incarceration of Indigenous peoples continues to be a disturbing trend in Canada, prompting calls to problematize prison as a modern manifestation of settler-colonialism. To address this call, we explore the disconcerting similarities between historical accounts of food insecurity endured by Indigenous children in residential schools and our participants’ shocking food experiences in Canadian federal prisons. Using qualitative data from 57 semi-structured interviews with formerly incarcerated people, we compare participants’ experiences of poor-quality food, chronic hunger, and malnutrition to those of students in residential schools, problematizing the inadequate food provision in Canadian prisons in the present despite government assurances that prison food meets national nutritional guidelines. Ultimately, we contend that settler-colonialism continues to be weaponized against Indigenous people in prison – and incarcerated people, generally – through the slow violence of carceral food provision, perpetuating inequitable health outcomes for communities historically pushed to the margins of Canadian society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the transformations in European welfare states and social rights, focusing on the regulation of social rights through framework law and the impact of neoliberalism and institutional austerity. It discusses the enforcement of social security legislation and the behavior of front-line officials, as well as the process of asylum adjudication in Sweden and the challenges faced by victims of trafficking and labor exploitation. The text also examines the changing character of the Dutch welfare state and the role of social networks and intermediaries in helping individuals access their rights. Overall, it provides valuable insights into the complexities and challenges of European welfare systems. [Extracted from the article]

On average, incarcerated people have higher rates of poor health, mental illness, and histories of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) than the general population. This mixed-methods analysis examines the relationship between ACEs and poor adult health among a sample of formerly incarcerated people. The quantitative analysis (N = 122) shows childhood adversity is associated with various health conditions in adulthood, although the strength of this relationship varies by the kinds of ACEs respondents encountered. The qualitative analysis of life history timelines (N = 42) reveals two pathways relating ACEs to poor health and legal system involvement: (1) violence and victimization and (2) drug use as a coping mechanism. Unaddressed mental health challenges in the aftermath of adversity emerged as an important precursor to both pathways. Prisons lack a meaningful consideration of these early life events and the social structures that result in the high rates of vulnerable people in its care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carceral conditions in the United States may serve as a proxy for crises within justice and health systems. This study seeks to consider and measure prison climate from the perspective of incarcerated people. By examining within-facility differences in carceral experiences, results shed light on the complex nexus between the carceral context, health, and justice. We administered the Prison Climate Questionnaire (PCQ) to the complete population of incarcerated men in a correctional facility located in the Eastern United States. In this facility, housing units hold distinct populations, fulfill different functions, and can offer unique programming. We regress select items from the PCQ on a set of dummies corresponding to different residential units within the facility. Responses indicate low but relatively uniform perceptions of overall personal health, as well as access to, and satisfaction with, medical care. Between-unit differences emerge regarding staff relationships, experiences of discrimination, and levels of isolation. The perspectives of incarcerated people can, and should, play a role in understanding and conceptualizing the nature of the prison environment. Policy responses, especially those that impact the health and well-being of currently and formerly incarcerated people, can be informed by these perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Involvement in community activities is one of the indicators of successful reintegration of exprisoners. Factors such as social stigma and social support are often said to influence this involvement. This paper aims to assess the relationship between social stigma, social support, and involvement in community activities among ex-prisoners. A quantitative study design using a survey method was employed. A total of 250 ex-prisoners in the Klang Valley were recruited to respond to a questionnaire consisting of three instruments: the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS), the Social Stigma Scale, and the Community Activity Involvement Scale. The study found a significant positive relationship between social support and involvement in community activities. Conversely, there was a significant negative relationship between social stigma and involvement in community activities, as well as social support for ex-prisoners. Specific intervention programs need to be developed to reduce social stigma and enhance social support for ex-prisoners. Collaboration among all stakeholders is crucial to strategically reduce recidivism rates and ensure successful reintegration of ex-prisoners into society. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article draws on exploitation theory to argue that the use of underpaid prison labor for digitization projects and other memory work is unethical. Such projects, and therefore our cultural memory institutions, exploit incarcerated people. As the for-profit prison industrial complex only continues to grow and disproportionately affects Black, Indigenous, and people of color, it is imperative that the information profession recognize its contribution to this moral wrong. To this end, I offer two potential interventions: (a) hiring formerly incarcerated people in memory institutions and (b) clearly and honestly disclosing the use of prison labor to users. Enacting these interventions will not end the exploitation of incarcerated people but will provide meaningful benefits to those who are (formerly) incarcerated and work toward greater transparency with our patrons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose: Formerly incarcerated people die by suicide at a rate 6.75 times higher than the general population. In this study we ask whether existential isolation, the feeling of being alone in one's subjective experiences, offers new insights into this staggering statistic. We specifically ask whether existential isolation predicts suicidal ideation among formerly incarcerated individuals even after accounting for their levels of interpersonal isolation, emotional support, and instrumental support. Method: We examined cross-sectional survey data from American participants (n = 946) recruited over the Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) platform. Results: Consistent with prediction, we found that people with an incarceration history reported more existential isolation, but not more interpersonal isolation, than those without an incarceration history. A hierarchical regression analysis revealed that existential isolation explained additional variance in suicidal ideation beyond what was explained by interpersonal isolation, instrumental support, and emotional support. Fisher's r-to-z transformations demonstrated that the magnitude of the relationship between existential isolation and suicidal ideation was stronger among those with an incarceration history than among those without. Finally, existential isolation mediated the relationship between incarceration and suicidal thoughts, even when holding constant other predictors of suicidal ideation. Conclusion: Reentry programs may target existential isolation among formerly incarcerated individuals to improve emotional wellbeing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study is focused on the reentry/resettlement problems that are faced by ex-prisoners in the Czech Republic (CR). Findings are based on semi-structured interviews with 26 ex-prisoners and 30 social workers who provide social services in prisons and after the release. Based on the data, which were coded inductively employing qualitative content analysis, several post-prison issues emerged: (1) material deprivation and insecurity regarding housing, subsistence, and stable employment; (2) debts and enforcement proceedings; (3) prisonisation effect; (4) health issues; (5) relationships with family and significant others; (6) drug abuse; (7) meaningful leisure time. Particularly, more attention was given to housing, subsistence, stable employment, and debts and enforcement proceedings because, compared to other countries, these issues have their specifics in the CR. Findings, interpreted through the optics of intersectionality, suggest that the Czech social policies regarding ex-prisoners are focused on a one or selection of factors, instead on the complex interplay of them, as well as not properly targeted and delivered in the right time. To improve the situation, the better system of social services financing that would address the ex-prisoners' complex needs must be implemented along with the housing first policy and more accessible personal bankruptcy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current study sought to understand the lived experiences of 10 formerly incarcerated Black and Latino men in an apprentice program for physical trainers using directed content analysis. Participants described a variety of microaggressions, including those representing known themes (e.g., assumption of criminality) and new (sub)themes (e.g., borrowed legitimacy). They also described new opportunities afforded to them by virtue of their involvement in the apprentice program and their newly found authority. Results indicate that formerly incarcerated men of color experience daily discrimination and re‐entry challenges that may be destabilizing and contribute to recidivism, thus reinforcing the cycle of mass incarceration. The authors suggest further investment in tertiary interventions to buffer against the harmful effects of microaggressions, as well as further research with a critical race lens and primary interventions aimed at ameliorating the societal conditions that lead men of color to come into contact with the criminal legal system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a summary of a podcast episode titled "Beyond the Manuscript: Criminal Justice System Panel Discussion" from the journal Progress in Community Health Partnerships. The episode features a panel discussion with authors of three articles related to incarcerated individuals. The panelists discuss their research projects, which include a qualitative program evaluation of a digital peer support group for formerly incarcerated people, forming an academic-community partnership with families affected by the juvenile justice system, and addressing health inequities among incarcerated populations during COVID-19. The panelists share their experiences, partnerships, and research methods used in their respective projects. The text emphasizes the importance of partnerships, community engagement, and trust-building in addressing the needs of incarcerated individuals and their families. It also highlights the efforts being made to provide resources, education, and peer support for formerly incarcerated individuals, particularly in the area of mental healthcare. The work is ongoing, with plans for advocacy and continued partnerships to address systemic barriers and promote empowerment. [Extracted from the article]

Objectives: A qualitative program evaluation of the Formerly Incarcerated Peer Support (FIPS) group, a peer-led mutual support group for formerly incarcerated people, was conducted to understand participant perceptions of (1) digital delivery via Zoom, (2) curriculum content, (3) roles of group participants, and (4) therapeutic value of FIPS group as it relates to traumatic experiences in prison and ongoing challenges after release. Methods: Using a community-based participatory action research approach, a qualitative evaluation was conducted with participants in either the 2020 or 2021 curriculum. Semi-structured interviews were conducted via Zoom, transcribed, de-identified, coded, and analyzed via applied thematic analysis and results reviewed with participants. Results: Of 75 formerly incarcerated participants, 20 interviews were conducted and recorded (n = 20). All participants were male, 85% were Black, and the average age was 54.8 years old. Zoom delivery was not preferred, but feasible. Most appreciated the comprehensive and holistic curriculum that enabled peers to gain practical and emotional social support in different areas of life after release. The facilitator's experience with prison programs and relationships within peer networks was essential for recruitment and retention. Participants described (1) feelings of acceptance, (2) examples of teaching and learning from peers' improved insight, trigger management, response modification to stressors, and (3) improved understanding within relationships with those who have not been incarcerated. Conclusions: Digital delivery of peer-led psychosocial support groups for formerly incarcerated people is feasible and impactful. Future research can further characterize the lingering impacts of institutional traumas and quantify changes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Formerly incarcerated people have exceptionally poor health profiles and are at increased risk of preventable mortality when compared with their general population peers. However, not enough is known about the epidemiology of mortality in this population—specifically the rates, causes, and timing of death in specific subgroups and regions—to inform the development of targeted, evidence-based responses. We aimed to document the incidence, timing, causes, and risk factors for mortality after release from incarceration. We analysed linked administrative data from the multi-national Mortality After Release from Incarceration Consortium (MARIC) study. We examined mortality outcomes for 1 471 526 people released from incarceration in eight countries (Australia, Brazil, Canada, New Zealand, Norway, Scotland, Sweden, and the USA) from 1980 to 2018, across 10 534 441 person-years of follow-up (range 0–24 years per person). We combined data from 18 cohort studies using two-step individual participant data meta-analyses to estimate pooled all-cause and cause-specific crude mortality rates (CMRs) per 100 000 person-years, for specific time periods (first, daily from days 1–14; second, weekly from weeks 3–12; third, weeks 13–52 combined; fourth, weeks 53 and over combined; and fifth, total follow-up) after release, overall and stratified by age, sex, and region. 75 427 deaths were recorded. The all-cause CMR during the first week following release (1612 [95% CI 1048–2287]) was higher than during all other time periods (incidence rate ratio [IRR] compared with week 2: 1·5 [95% CI 1·2–1·8], I 2=26·0%, weeks 3–4: 2·0 [1·5–2·6], I 2=53·0%, and weeks 9–12: 2·2 [1·6–3·0], I 2=70·5%). The highest cause-specific mortality rates during the first week were due to alcohol and other drug poisoning (CMR 657 [95% CI 332–1076]), suicide (135 [36–277]), and cardiovascular disease (71 [16–153]). We observed considerable variation in cause-specific CMRs over time since release and across regions. Pooled all-cause CMRs were similar between males (731 [95% CI 630–839]) and females (660 [560–767]) and were higher in older age groups. The markedly elevated rate of death in the first week post-release underscores an urgent need for investment in evidence-based, coordinated transitional healthcare, including treatment for mental illness and substance use disorders to prevent post-release deaths due to suicide and overdose. Temporal variations in rates and causes of death highlight the need for routine monitoring of post-release mortality. Australia's National Health and Medical Research Council. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article titled "Links of Previous Incarceration with Geriatric Syndromes and Chronic Health Conditions Among Older Adults in the United States" explores the relationship between previous incarceration and the prevalence of various health issues among adults aged 50 and older. The study finds significant associations between incarceration and increased risks of mobility difficulties, daily living challenges, cancer, depression, and chronic lung disease. The article emphasizes the need for targeted health interventions and policy adjustments to address the enduring health impacts of incarceration on older adults. It also highlights the disparities faced by marginalized and minoritized groups and calls for comprehensive reforms in correctional health management. [Extracted from the article]

Common to many post-conflict societies, former political prisoners and combatants in Northern Ireland are often portrayed as security threats rather than as potential contributors to societal peacebuilding processes. This distrust limits their ability to contribute to the transitional landscape and additionally hinders desistance processes during their reentry from prison. Drawing from the work of Maruna, LeBel, and others on "wounded healers," this article critically examines the restorative justice work of ex-prisoners who have become involved in leadership roles within community based restorative justice. It is argued that such practitioner work can help former combatants overcome many of the challenges typically associated with reentry, contributing to a "strength-based" approach to desistance, impacting factors such as employment, social bonds, internal narratives, and agency. This work also enables individuals to showcase their desistance to others, highlighting their "earned redemption" and encouraging society to acknowledge that reentry is a two-way street. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of IBEROAMERICANA. América Latina - España - Portugal is the property of Vervuert Verlag and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Demographic shifts toward an older and sicker prison population present challenges for corrections leaders and incarcerated people. The priority of custody and control over care in prisons can deprive people of a modicum of autonomy even about expressing their end-of-life wishes. This study was undertaken to inform best practices and identify essential components of end-of-life care planning (EOLCP) for people who will likely die incarcerated. Individual interviews with formerly incarcerated people (n = 16) provided insights on EOLCP knowledge, perceptions, and future plans as each reflected on experiences while incarcerated. Zoom Video Communications were used for the interviews, and audio recordings were transcribed verbatim, verified, and deidentified prior to thematic analysis. Themes were defined and discussed until consensus was reached between the 2 researchers. End-of-life care planning themes included the following: understanding of and experience with advanced directives/care planning (AD/ACP), defining AD/ACP, timing of AD/ACP accessibility to health care resources, how to approach EOLCP in prison, advantages of EOLCP, and barriers to EOLCP. Formerly incarcerated peoples' knowledge, perceptions, and future plans revealed important considerations when developing a contextually relevant toolkit for EOLCP for people living in prison. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Jurídica (0103-3506) is the property of Revista Juridica and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article explores the potential of collective living and mutual aid among criminalized individuals as a means to prevent homelessness and address challenges imposed by the criminal justice system. It highlights the systemic separation of criminalized people from their communities at every stage of the justice system and presents personal anecdotes illustrating the importance of maintaining relationships and supporting each other in housing and reintegration efforts.

An introduction is presented in which the editor discusses articles in the issue on topics including the intersection of homelessness and incarceration, criminalization tactics, and carceral violence.

This study investigated the experiences of ex-offenders and the perceptions of society regarding their reintegration. A descriptive-correlational design was employed in the study, which took place in Abuyog, Leyte, Regional VIII (Eastern Visayas). The study revealed that most ex-offenders were male, with differing age ranges and educational backgrounds. A significant portion of ex-offenders had been involved in illegal drug trade, murder, or homicide. The majority of ex-offenders served sentences ranging from 1 to 10 years and had a middle socio-economic status, with a significant percentage lacking permanent employment. The study examined social support provided to ex-offenders, revealing a high prevalence of rehabilitation programs and parole and probation officer monitoring, but lower rates of other forms like re-entry programs, legal aid, mentoring, vocational training, and housing assistance. Ex-offenders faced numerous challenges in reintegration, including humiliation, rejection, isolation, and difficulties in family, friendship, and romantic relationships. Disclosure of their criminal history also led to employer rejection. Society's perceptions of ex-offenders reintegration were mixed, with stakeholders expressing both support and skepticism. Barriers included community hesitance, but opinions among ex-offenders differed on other identified barriers. Age and personal association with ex-offenders significantly influenced stakeholders' perceptions, while other demographic factors did not. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the complexities surrounding exoffenders' reintegration. They emphasize the need for comprehensive support systems and interventions to address challenges and promote successful reintegration. Future research and policy initiatives should consider these findings to develop targeted strategies for creating inclusive and supportive communities for ex-offenders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There remains a need for counselors well‐prepared to work with ex‐offenders. As counselors aim to meet ethical obligations toward advocacy, they often seek to address social determinants of health (SDOH) challenges. Those working with ex‐offenders should be aware of unique employment challenges ex‐offenders may face and possess a baseline knowledge of the justice system for pertinent collaboration. This paper provides an explanation of how the Systems Theory Framework may be used to address ex‐offenders' employment‐related needs through addressing SDOH challenges and collaborating with the justice system. Implications for employment counselors, counselor educators, and supervisors and steps for future research conclude. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: This study tests if the public overestimates the immoral behavior of formerly incarcerated people. Methods: In a benchmark study with people on parole and people without a criminal record, participants played a game that allowed them to deceive their counterparts in order to make more money. A subsequent prediction study asked an online US-nationally representative sample to estimate how both groups played the game. By comparing the estimated likelihoods to the observed likelihoods of deception we examine if people correctly assess the deception rates of both groups. Results: Both groups showed an equal propensity to deceive. In contrast, respondents from the online sample believed that people on parole would be much more likely to deceive than their counterparts. Conclusions: The results suggest that the public holds stigmatizing attitudes towards formerly incarcerated people, which can be a detriment to successful reentry into their communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the court case Hopkins v. Hosemann in which the Fifth Circuit held that permanent disenfranchisement of people convicted of a felony, who are often incarcerated, violates the Cruel and Unusual Punishment Clause of the Eight Amendment. It explains two provisions of the Mississippi Constitution at issue in the case that were crafted in 1890 to subjugate the enfranchised Black population. It describes the consolidated class actions filed to challenge such provisions.

The article explores the recent rise in labor activism in the United States and focuses on the achievements of UNITE HERE Local 11, a union representing hospitality workers in Southern California. The union's success is attributed to their grassroots organizing approach, which involves close collaboration with community organizations and elected officials. The article highlights the significance of worker-led organizing committees and the involvement of immigrant and Black workers in building a strong labor movement. The experiences of Local 11 in Santa Monica are seen as a model for revitalizing the labor movement and achieving sustainable improvements for workers. [Extracted from the article]

In the paper, the authors analyse the relationship between the prison social climate and recidivism, that is, they connect the data obtained by measuring the quality of prison life (MQPL) with the dimension of previous prison experience. The paper examines the hypothesis that on some/ certain aspects there will be differences in the perception of the prison social climate depending on whether the respondents are in prison for the first time, or they have already had prison experience. The main goal of the paper is to examine whether there are differences between persons who have previously served a prison sentence and those who have not, with regards to the perception of the quality of prison life. The research was carried out in the course of 2022, on a sample of 578 convicted adults, who are serving a prison sentence in Sremska Mitrovica Prison, Požarevac - Zabela Prison, Niš Prison, Belgrade Prison and Požarevac Prison for Women. Descriptive statistics and t-test were used in the paper. The most important results show that there are significant differences regarding the assessment of the quality of prison life in the following categories: Harmony Dimensions, Professionalism Dimensions and Wellbeing and Development Dimensions, and that each of those three categories is statistically significantly better rated by those who are not penological returnees. When it comes to the general assessment of the quality of prison life, the results showed that there are no significant differences between persons who have previously served a prison sentence and those who have not. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate labor force participation of female ex-offenders who served their first sentence late in life. We investigate whether ex-offenders' labor market attachment differed before and after their imprisonment, and whether being employed helped them avoid or postpone recidivism. We contribute to the existing research on this topic by examining a very specific, yet disadvantaged group of workers in a longitudinal study using administrative data from all public employment offices in Poland for the period of 1 June 2004 to 31 December 2017. We find that while the older female ex-prisoners were indeed loosely attached to the labor market, being employed decreased their risk of a second imprisonment by 90%, and postponed recidivism. We also show that the multidimensionality of job quality matters, and that being attached to the labor force mattered most for ex-offenders with only one conviction, which should be taken into account in formulating social reintegration policies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista de Derecho de la Seguridad Social, Laborum is the property of Ediciones Laborum S.L. and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The fall of the Bastille on 14 July 1789 remains the single most emblematic episode in the history of the French Revolution. The infamous fortress had already functioned as an important political symbol well before 1789, however. From the beginning of the eighteenth century, a 'black legend' was constructed around the building, propelled by the publication of a succession of (real or fictitious) memoirs by ex-prisoners. The growth of the Bastille myth was favoured by political circumstances (dissatisfaction with absolutism) and a cultural climate (sensibility towards fear and imprisonment; Enlightenment calls for humanity, transparency and reason). No Bastille memoir became more influential than Joseph Marie Brossays du Perray's Remarques historiques et anecdotes sur le château de la Bastille (1774). Besides being a hit in France, the pamphlet had a huge international career. Its English and German translations contributed to turning the Bastille into a transnational symbol of despotism. The meanings and interpretations of that symbol shifted both in France and abroad on the rhythm of historical events. The various French editions and English translations of Remarques historiques allow us to follow that process closely. Three temporalities in the pamphlet's history can be distinguished which mark the Bastille's construction as a political symbol in France and in Britain in the last quarter of the eighteenth century. The British reception of the Bastille, which revolved around the idealized British Constitution, shows that transnational exchanges can nevertheless be conducive to the reinforcement of national frames of reference. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present paper focuses on the strengths-based role of the wounded healer, as exemplified by current or released incarcerated people who desist from crime and recover through professional practice of peer support, in the community or in prison. The paper has two purposes. One is to review criminological approaches and models related to peer-based rehabilitation and to encompass them under a single term proposed here— Convict Therapy. The second is to review research on peer support programs currently implemented in in various countries, in a bid to discern their hallmarks and strengths. This to enrich and promote the discourse, research, and practice of this evolving field, and to offer new research directions for examining the effectiveness of peer support in the long run, for the aid providers, the recipients, and the community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Mary Ann and Captain Piper: The Remarkable True Story of the Convicts' Daughter Who Became the Toast of Colonial Sydney" by Jessica North is a historical non-fiction book that tells the story of Mary Ann Piper, a child of two convicts who rose to prominence in colonial Sydney's high society. The book explores Mary Ann's journey from her humble beginnings to becoming one of the highest-ranking women in the region. Through extensive research and attention to detail, the author provides readers with insight into the cultural settings and conventions of the time. While the book's level of detail can sometimes be overwhelming, it sheds light on the transformation of societal attitudes towards convict ancestry in Australia. Despite some issues with historical accuracy and interpretation, "Mary Ann and Captain Piper" is an interesting read that highlights the achievements of individuals who overcame the stigma of their convict past. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on creating a critical framework called the Araminta Approach to improve outcomes in the lives of Black women with histories of incarceration. Topics include the use of the Strong Black Woman (SBW) schema as the critical framework, the validation process involving focus groups with Black women affected by the criminal justice system, and the challenges these women face in striving to be excellent caregivers and courageous self-advocates.

The University of Maryland Law Journal of Race, Religion, Gender & Class hosted a symposium on decarceration, focusing on the roles of law school clinics. The symposium included panels of experts from various backgrounds who discussed decarceration activities such as enforcing release mechanisms, expanding release laws, and addressing race and gender discrimination in overincarceration. The article highlights the increase in the US prison population, discusses the issue of mass incarceration, and emphasizes the need to focus on incarcerated individuals who have received long sentences for violent crimes. It also addresses the role of storytelling and the experiences of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals in advocating for change. The text discusses the use of fear-based political narratives and tough-on-crime policies, as well as recent reductions in prison populations. It also addresses the Supreme Court's recognition of the lesser culpability of juvenile offenders and the reform of sentencing policies for juvenile lifers. The text discusses the renaming of high courts in Maryland, the implementation of sentencing reforms, and the concept of compassionate release. It highlights the importance of state court focus in addressing overincarceration, particularly for prisoners serving long sentences for violent crimes. The text also mentions the D.C. Second Look law as a national model for sentence review for incarcerated individuals who committed crimes as juveniles. It discusses the Second Look Project and the creation of a national Second Look Network. The text discusses a panel discussion on decarceration reforms and legal representation in federal release proceedings, highlighting the flaws in the Sentencing Reform [Extracted from the article]

The article explores the author's unconventional teaching approach, inspired by Michel Foucault's "Discipline and Punish." The author describes a classroom game aimed at dismantling structures of authority, challenging students to question latent power dynamics. It discusses the concept of complicity within the educational system, examining how teachers navigate institutional structures and grading practices.

One of the primary concerns employers hold about hiring an ex-offender is the potential reoffending risk they pose. However, criminological literature shows that an ex-offender may be able to mitigate employers' concerns by signalling their desistance from crime. Less understood is how ex-offenders can signal their desistance to (a) make desistance recognizable and (2) communicate desistance signals that employers value. This article draws on the results from the second phase of an Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods study with a sample of Australian employers who participated in semi-structured interviews (n  = 43). The findings show desistance signals can be communicated to employers via strategic design. These findings along with the theoretical and policy implications are then discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the concept of "grounding" as a method of critical pedagogy in ethnic studies, drawing on the work of Walter Rodney. The authors reflect on their own experiences and offer insights on how grounding pedagogy can be applied in different institutional contexts. The article emphasizes the need for a curriculum that centers the knowledge and experiences of marginalized communities and challenges systems of oppression. It discusses the practice of grounding in the context of ethnic studies at various universities, highlighting its transformative potential in fostering mutual respect, community building, and collective liberation. The authors also discuss the importance of engaging with grassroots organizations and communities outside of the university campus, and how grounding can provide a space for reflection, learning, and action on pressing issues of the twenty-first century. [Extracted from the article]

Returning to the community after being incarcerated brings many challenges. In Victoria, Australia, a government-funded contract with non-government organisations (NGOs) allocates reintegration workers to assist with the post-release social integration process. In 2020, we interviewed reintegration workers to explore how they performed their roles before and during the COVID-19 restrictions. The key finding was that building rapport to tailor support was the most crucial aspect of practice, which workers could not adequately do without meeting face-to-face. Strengths-based practices, consisting of holistic, trauma-informed interactions, should become enshrined in reintegration job roles and the key performance indicators (KPIs) that measure success of the government contract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Revista Foco (Interdisciplinary Studies Journal) is the property of Revista Foco and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

For many released prisoners, the period following release is characterized by extreme challenges. The ability to overcome such challenges depends on the services, level of supervision, and type of support available. One type of support offered by the Israeli Prisoners' Rehabilitation Authority provides a supervisory and rehabilitative framework for reintegration after release from imprisonment, with an emphasis on employment. The present study examines the subjective experiences of ex-prisoners on their journey from incarceration through reentry and reintegration while participating in supervision, treatment, and employment intervention operated by the Israeli Prisoners' Rehabilitation Authority. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a sample of released prisoners who successfully completed Israeli Prisoners' Rehabilitation Authority supervision between 2014 and 2019. The interviews reveal four main themes that in turn identify pathways to "better lives" through the reintegration process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 has greatly impacted the health of incarcerated individuals in the US. The goal of this study was to examine perspectives of recently incarcerated individuals on greater restrictions on liberty to mitigate COVID-19 transmission. We conducted semi-structured phone interviews from August through October 2021 with 21 people who had been incarcerated in Bureau of Prisons (BOP) facilities during the pandemic. Transcripts were coded and analyzed, using a thematic analysis approach. Many facilities implemented universal "lockdowns," with time out of the cell often limited to one hour per day, with participants reporting not being able to meet all essential needs such as showers and calling loved ones. Several study participants reported that repurposed spaces and tents created for quarantine and isolation provided "unlivable conditions." Participants reported receiving no medical attention while in isolation, and staff using spaces designated for disciplinary purposes (e.g., solitary housing units) for public health isolation purposes. This resulted in the conflation of isolation and discipline, which discouraged symptom reporting. Some participants felt guilty over potentially causing another lockdown by not reporting their symptoms. Programming was frequently stopped or curtailed and communication with the outside was limited. Some participants relayed that staff threatened to punish noncompliance with masking and testing. Liberty restrictions were purportedly rationalized by staff with the idea that incarcerated people should not expect freedoms, while those incarcerated blamed staff for bringing COVID-19 into the facility. Our results highlighted how actions by staff and administrators decreased the legitimacy of the facilities' COVID-19 response and were sometimes counterproductive. Legitimacy is key in building trust and obtaining cooperation with otherwise unpleasant but necessary restrictive measures. To prepare for future outbreaks facilities must consider the impact of liberty-restricting decisions on residents and build legitimacy for these decisions by communicating justifications to the extent possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]