On Monday, November 11, we went to Brown University to speak to a public health class of 40 students about the impact of stigma on reentry and health. Stigma following incarceration is extensive and affects individuals’ abilities to find jobs, housing, health care, social acceptance, and many other basic needs and services.
Kathy spoke about the development and purpose of the Phoenix Project, which is to help medium-to-high risk individuals reintegrate back into the community after release from prison. Mike, Jose, Tyson, and Brandy, graduates of the program who have been home for 1-6 years each, shared their experiences in the program, as well as their experiences growing up, being incarcerated, and since coming home. Despite encountering traumatic hardships since coming home, they have worked hard and pushed through to build their businesses or careers. Each of them has done an interview with us that you can read on our blog to learn more about them.
Thank you to Professor Brockmann and his students for having us!
Left to right: Professor Brad Brockmann, Mike Gamez, Jose Tapia, Tyson Ferrara, Brandy Diaz, Dr. Kathy Carty
