Our criminal justice system is broken and in need of overhaul. Join us to explore major areas of concern and possible solutions. Topics addressed will include: racism, juveniles at-risk, gun violence, violence against women, prosecution, incarceration, probation, reentry, drug addiction, private prisons, and progressive trends in policing and sentencing. Each week will feature a guest speaker whose professional experience highlights specific issues and solutions.

Format: Along with guest speakers, the class will focus each week on a different topic with questions and handouts provided by the coordinators as needed, to prompt active interest and discussion among members. Presentations, though not required, are welcome. Clips from film and video may be shown. Criminal justice issues that arise during the semester may be discussed as well. This is a Zoom video conferencing class.

Resources/Expenses: The film 13th by Ava DuVernay, available on Netflix and at local libraries, is recommended for discussion during the opening class. The book, The Nickel Boys by Colin Whitehead, is suggested for further insights and is available at local libraries and bookstores or on Amazon. Familiarity with The Marshall Project, available online, is another source.