For the Good of the Public

Christian Resources and Criminal Justice Reform: A Model

Aug 28, 2024

Heather Rice-Minus, President and CEO of Prison Fellowship, and Ralph Diaz, a former correction officer and Vice-Chairman of the organization's Board, dive into the urgent need for criminal justice reform. They advocate for rehabilitative justice, emphasizing that today's inmates are tomorrow's neighbors and deserve support. The duo shares insights on the role of faith in transforming the justice system, the importance of local churches welcoming released individuals, and the impact of advocacy in shaping policy. Their vision centers on a system that embraces restoration and community.

32:10

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Episode guests

Heather Rice-Minus

Ralph Diaz

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Rehabilitation is essential for reducing recidivism, given that over 85% of incarcerated individuals eventually return to their communities.

Christian advocacy plays a crucial role in promoting equitable practices within the justice system and supporting reintegration for formerly incarcerated individuals.

Deep dives

Understanding the Role of Corrections Officers

The motivations for becoming a corrections officer often stem from a desire to serve the public and promote justice. Ralph Diaz shares his journey as a correctional officer, expressing how many in the profession view their role as one of public service, aiming to positively impact the lives of those incarcerated. Despite this noble motivation, he also highlights the systemic limitations that can hinder true justice, noting how these barriers can create environments where rehabilitation is neglected. Acknowledging the Christian perspective, he emphasizes that justice should not only punish but also seek the restoration and betterment of individuals.

Intro

3min

Faith and Reform in Criminal Justice

9min

The Crucial Balance of Justice and Rehabilitation in Criminal Justice

4min

Transforming Lives through Community and Faith

5min

Embracing Incarcerated Individuals in Church Community

2min

Faith and Reform: The Role of Christian Organizations in Criminal Justice

4min

Advocating for Criminal Justice Reform: The Power of Your Voice

5min

In this episode of For the Good of the Public podcast, Michael and Phebe present a conversation about criminal justice reform with Heather Rice-Minus, President and CEO of Prison Fellowship, and Ralph Diaz, a former correction officer and Vice-Chairman of Prison Fellowship’s Board of Directors. With 1.7 million people incarcerated in prisons and jails across the country, Heather and Ralph discuss what they are seeking to do with the current criminal justice system and offer a vision for it. They draw from Prison Fellowship as a practical model for how to think about criminal justice reform and why rehabilitative justice is important and essential.

Watch the video recording of this talk on YouTube!

“When we think about the concept of justice, we’re thinking that it just doesn't leave people where they are, but it’s actually seeking their betterment.” -Phebe [01:50]

“When we’re having public policy conversations, it helps to (consider) ‘What is the purpose we have in mind for this system? What is the goal that we have in mind?’ And that’s why I appreciate this conversation so much. The way that Heather and Ralph are able to talk about what we’re seeking to do with our criminal justice system and offering a vision for it.” -Michael [02:08]

“I learned right away, today’s inmates are tomorrow’s neighbor, and sending people out back into a community with no resources, no skills, not dealing with some of the court issues, that was an injustice. Not only for the individual, but the communities that we’re sending them back to.” -Ralph [13:32]

“I would encourage folks to make sure you’re following your lawmakers on these issues, talking to them about it. Local, federal, at every level, because we see the justice system does exist at every level.” -Heather [27:45]

TIMESTAMPS

[00:00] Intro

[04:14] About this week’s guests

[04:55] A little bit of context

[06:08] Ralph’s experience in the justice system

[11:21] The need for rehabilitation

[17:53] Practical ways to prevent the cycle of crime

[24:01] Coming from a place of love

[27:56] Resources to get more engaged on this issue

[31:12] Outro

REFERENCES