Darren B. Easterling Center for Restorative Practices

The Center prioritizes the mental health of Black Women who have lost a loved one to gun violence or mass incarceration. None of this would be possible without the support of our partners, Foundation for Women, for Research in Chicagoland Communities and Chicago Beyond. repairtheharm

We at the Darren B. Easterling Center for Restorative Practices believe human connection is at the heart of transformation. Swipe through to see incredible moments from the You Matter Summit of greeting and embracing shared among our attendees throughout the day. Each embrace tells a story of unity and hope. Thank you to our partners at Illinois Humanities, Rudd Resources LLC, and The Field Foundation of Illinois for your support in making this day possible!

Want to hear more of Raylan Gilford's story about the day he was released after experiencing 28 years, 7 months and 25 days in the custody of the Illinois Department of Corrections? Listen here: https://on.soundcloud.com/BiK3ixPEi1z7K6pRA

Last week, our Executive Director, Lisa D. Daniels, had the incredible opportunity to participate in the thought-provoking webinar "Can Parole be Rehabilitated?" inspired by Ben Austen's insightful new book, "Correction: Parole, Prison, and the Possibility of Change."

In this discussion, panelists took a deep dive into the crucial role of parole within the U.S. criminal justice system, examining its history, evolution, and whether it still fulfills its original mission of reform and reintegration.

It was an honor to share the virtual stage with amazing leaders like Michelle Lewin of the Parole Preparation Project, Anthony Muhammad from the ACLU of Maryland /Maryland Parole Partnership, and Becky Feldman of The Sentencing Project, who moderated our conversation. We explored pressing questions: Can parole be rehabilitated? Should states consider second-look judicial resentencing? How can we implement restorative justice while engaging victims in a trauma-informed way?

This conversation is vital as we seek to transform how we think about correction and reentry and ensure our system truly allows individuals to rebuild their lives.

Thank you to everyone who joined us and contributed to this meaningful dialogue. Let's keep pushing for change and justice in every corner of our society. Watch the full webinar here: https://bit.ly/4bfmGVv

We at the Darren B. Easterling Center for Restorative Practices, are eagerly anticipating this enriching discussion on the role of parole in our nation's criminal justice system. Ben Austen's book, "Correction: Parole, Prison, and the Possibility of Change," serves as a catalyst for examining parole's historical context, its present-day functions, and whether it aligns with its original purpose. I'm particularly intrigued by the exploration of alternatives like second-look judicial resentencing legislation and the principles of restorative justice. With our Executive Director, Lisa D. Daniels, Michelle Lewin, and Anthony Muhammad lending their expertise, this promises to be a dynamic dialogue. Kudos to Becky Feldman for moderating what's sure to be an illuminating conversation. Mark your calendars and RSVP to delve into these critical issues with us.

What role does parole play in the U.S. criminal justice system, and does the current system still fulfill its original mission?

This Wednesday, May 8, at 2 PM ET, join a dynamic talk inspired by Ben Austen's new book, "Correction: Parole, Prison, and the Possibility of Change.” The conversation will examine the history and intent of parole, its evolution, whether it can be rehabilitated, whether states should consider enacting second-look judicial resentencing legislation instead, concepts of restorative justice, how to engage victims in a trauma-informed way, and more.

Ben will be joined by Lisa D. Daniels, Founder and Executive Director of the Darren B. Easterling Center for Restorative Practices; Michelle Lewin, Executive Director of the Parole Preparation Project; and Anthony Muhammad, Advisor at the ACLU of Maryland/Maryland Parole Partnership. Becky Feldman, Second Look Network Director at The Sentencing Project, will moderate the conversation.

RSVP —> https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_mAMIEP-RRqOHV9Mxyoa4Nw?emci=5d9f9d57-3506-ef11-96f3-7c1e521b07f9&emdi=d0a3cebd-4406-ef11-96f3-7c1e521b07f9&ceid=13968837 #/registration

Even though has passed, the journey towards justice continues. Council on Criminal Justice Task Force on Long Sentences member Sam Lewis shares his inspiring story, reminding us of the profound impact second chances can have on individuals within the justice system. Proud to mention The Center's Executive Director, Lisa D. Daniels, served alongside Mr. Lewis on this crucial task force, advocating for fairness and redemption. Let's keep pushing for a system that believes in rehabilitation and offers hope to all. Read his opinion piece in Newsweek here: https://bit.ly/3WvIqba

I'm Proof of the Power of a Second Chance Second Chance Month has come to an end, but our commitment to supporting second chances doesn't have to stop.

Listen to more of Bernida's story here: https://bit.ly/44y2Din

Reflecting on the recent VIP Reception for the "We Are Our Own Medicine" gun violence prevention conference, it was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the efforts of community safety, led by so many dedicated leaders. A truly memorable evening! Darren B. Easterling Center for Restorative Practices wants to thank Alees Edwards, Jermaine Harris, and everyone who played a role in convening this wonderful gathering.

Thank you to the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights, Restore Justice Foundation, and People's Law Center for spotlighting the critical need for reforming solitary confinement in Illinois. Listen to more of Joseph Moore's story here: https://bit.ly/3Qu9ILh

A big thank you to the Chicago Sun-Times for covering this pivotal issue!

Solitary confinement in Illinois prisons violates human rights, Chicago lawyers group says "Prisons exist to punish and rehabilitate people — not to torture and destroy them," says the report from the Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights.

Listen to more of Marcos' story here: https://bit.ly/3QwAwdP

Recently, The Center's Executive Director, Lisa D. Daniels, along with Quiwana Bell and Dr. Kathryn Bocanegra sat down with as part of their virtual VOICES: Community Conversation focusing on A Safer City. This special VOICES Conversation was part of WTTW News and Chicago Tonight’s, A Safer City initiative, which takes a deep dive into neighborhood crime, violence, and public safety as residents, policymakers, and community groups work to address this pervasive issue. reporter, Joanna Hernandez moderated this live virtual conversation that focused on the impact of systemic violence on everyday life, and the steps that public safety officials, the police, and residents are taking to tackle the problem. Watch the full video here: https://bit.ly/4biKyqR

"Not all survivors for gun violence want or need long-term prison sentences to support their healing journey" - Lisa D Daniels, Executive Director.

Thank you, Illinois Justice Project, for hosting this important convening and asking the hard questions.

We're excited about the opportunity to talk about "You Matter", our trauma-focused support program at .leonardsministries

This week, the convened women from across the country who have lost loved ones and are now doing the work to heal the hurt and repair the harm.

Thank you to and for hosting today's convening.

Anthony Muhammad’s powerful op-ed not only illustrates the profound capacity for personal transformation but also underscores the invaluable work of organizations like the Darren B. Easterling Center for Restorative Practices (The Center) in fostering an environment where such transformations are recognized and supported. Muhammad’s journey from a life sentence to becoming a beacon of hope and change in his community is a testament to the belief that individuals are indeed more than their worst actions. His engagement with Baltimore Brothers, We Our Us, and the Maryland Parole Partnership exemplifies the crucial role of mentorship, community engagement, and legal advocacy in rehabilitating and reintegrating those who have been incarcerated.

The Center champions these same ideals, emphasizing the importance of seeing potential and possibility in every individual. Muhammad’s story aligns with The Center’s commitment to creating pathways for redemption and reformation, highlighting the effectiveness of supportive, community-based approaches over punitive measures. His work as a "Credible Messenger" and "Violence Interrupter" not only aids in crime reduction but also builds stronger, more resilient communities.

This op-ed serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact of empathy, support, and the belief in the possibility of change. It reinforces The Center’s ideology that with the right opportunities and resources, individuals can turn their lives around and make significant contributions to society. Muhammad’s story is a clear call to action to support policies and practices that facilitate this kind of positive change, demonstrating that redemption is not only possible but also beneficial to the community at large. Let’s continue to support and amplify efforts that enable transformation and reintegration for the betterment of all.

Commentary: Once part of the problem, we are now part of the solution - Maryland Matters Since the Juvenile Restoration Act passed in 2021, those former inmates who were released have a ZERO percent recidivism rate in Maryland.

Ran into my dear friend Bocanegra of and his colleague Cohen today.

Join us for the "You Matter: Amplifying Voices, Transforming Communities" day-long event. Register now to be a part of this vital discussion using this link: https://rb.gy/33tetc

We were all hard at work preparing for our SXSW panel "Community is the Future of Public Safety".

Reflecting on a recent newspaper article that revisited the heart-wrenching chapter of my life, I am reminded of the tragic loss of my son Darren Easterling over a decade ago. The pain and sorrow of his death at 25 years old in a Chicago suburb is still palpable. His death, and the manner in which I was informed of it, exposed the systemic devaluation of human life within our criminal justice system. Too often, individuals are reduced to their worst moments, and their entire existence is dismissed in an instant.

This experience has driven me to advocate for restorative justice, and to ensure that every person touched by crime is seen, heard, and given a chance to heal. My journey has intersected with that of Joseph Mapp "JoJo", who experienced 26 years of dehumanizing conditions in prison. His story, like my son's, highlights the urgent need for a shift in our criminal justice system towards one that acknowledges the humanity of all involved - victims, perpetrators, and their families alike.

Together, we are advocating for a "culture of encounter" through events like the dialogue sponsored by the Catholic Criminal Justice Reform Network. By sharing our stories, we hope to foster understanding, compassion, and real change. Join us in advocating for a criminal justice system that recognizes the inherent worth of every individual.

'Less than a person': Formerly incarcerated people say system needs healing "Part of the problem with just seeing people in jumpsuits who are robbed of their voice is that you can't imagine them as people who are loved and love," a judge said at a Chicago event on criminal justice reform.

Join us for "You Matter: Amplifying Voices, Transforming Communities" event!

We're excited to invite you to a day-long summit dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of long-term prison sentences on individuals, families, and communities. Through powerful audio stories, panel and roundtable discussions, we aim to spark meaningful conversations and envision a more just society.

If you're a media professional, family member of a formerly incarcerated individual, community member, educator, politician, or corrections staff, we encourage you to register and be part of this important event.

Register now to secure your spot: https://rb.gy/33tetc. Let your voice be heard and join us in making a difference!