Prison System Reform

Today, prisoners across America are striking for better conditions. The system still assumes the worse a prisoner is treated, the less they'll want to return to prison. Yet, decades of experience show this is not sufficient to deter reoffending.

Many prisoners end up behind bars because they've had terrible life experiences; poor parenting, violence in the home; no access to a legitimate career ladder.

Prison shouldn't be a place to damage and degrade people who need rehabilitation; many of these people are expected to return to civil society one day.

Prisons should be places of emotional and cognitive development and security. Positive affirmations, fair treatment, coping strategies and protection from further violence; prisoners need to learn how to live as healthy and well-behaved members of society.

An Open Prison in Brazil