North Brunswick resident Josh Green describes both the challenges and the opportunities that have emerged for him throughout his reentry process during a worldwide pandemic. Josh remains hopeful for what the future holds for him and his community.
Read MoreTia Ryans
Tia Ryans began running away from home to escape physical and sexual abuse, which ultimately led to her ending up in juvenile detention centers and juvenile prison. She was incarcerated for ten years, and describes her experiences while she was incarcerated and the success she has had since she was released. She has excelled in her higher education and is an advocate for criminal justice reform and environmental justice.
Read MoreRon Pierce
Growing up, Ron Pierce was taught the importance of voting and voted in every election that he could up until 1986 when was arrested. Ron believes that voting is a way to further democracy and help one’s community. He is a Democracy and Justice Fellow for the New Jersey Institute of Social Justice. He is working on getting voting rights restored for individuals on parole.
Read MoreJohn Pollard
New Brunswick resident John Pollard has struggled to find employment and housing due to systemic discrimination against formerly incarcerated people.
Read MoreChristopher Etienne
Christopher Etienne was incarcerated as a young man. He later earned two undergraduate degrees from Rutgers and his master’s from Columbia.
Read MoreMark Hopkins
Camden resident Mark Hopkins grew up in an abusive household and was incarcerated as a young man. He graduated from Rutgers, where he was a prominent student activist.
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