Derecka Purnell

Derecka Purnell, author of "Becoming Abolitionists" and a passionate lawyer and activist, joins host Fabiola Cineas for a candid discussion about police abolition. Derecka shares her personal journey toward this radical rethinking of justice. They examine the historical context of policing, critique reform efforts, and argue for community-focused safety alternatives. Key topics include the limitations of traditional policing, the impact of systemic inequalities, and a hopeful vision for a future that empowers marginalized communities without reliance on police.

Derecka Purnell, a prominent voice in the police abolition movement and author of "Becoming Abolitionists," dives into her transformative journey advocating for a future without police. She discusses the historical and social roles of policing, advocating for deep systemic change in criminal justice. Purnell emphasizes the limitations of police reform and highlights the importance of community-driven alternatives. By exploring real-life experiences and data, she challenges listeners to envision a society that prioritizes support and healing over punishment.