Mississippi Symposium Aims to Reduce Prison Returns
Officials from various sectors, alongside the Mississippi Department of Corrections (MDOC), will convene at the Brandon Civic Center on Thursday, August 8, to explore strategies aimed at reducing recidivism rates among justice-involved individuals, according to the Mississippi Department of Corrections.
The upcoming symposium, themed “Success Beyond Incarceration,” will gather correctional leaders, state agency representatives, and business figures to discuss crucial aspects of re-entry for current and former inmates. Key topics include overcoming employment barriers and fostering collaborative efforts within communities.
Commissioner Burl Cain expressed optimism about the event’s potential impact: “I am delighted to see Mississippi’s commitment to offering second chances to those leaving our correctional facilities. This symposium encourages dialogue on enhancing our re-entry initiatives and supports for justice-impacted individuals and communities.”
Highlighting the significance of community involvement, Cain added, “The MDOC is pleased to see our community engaged in discussions aimed at building upon efforts to decrease recidivism rates.”
The symposium marks the first of its kind since the COVID-19 pandemic, promising a platform for innovative ideas and collaborative solutions. Panel discussions throughout the day will explore best practices and successful case studies, emphasizing the importance of integrating returning citizens back into society.
A pivotal moment of the symposium will be the keynote address delivered by Reverend Eddie Spencer of Alta Woods United Methodist Church and Mount Salem United Methodist Church. Reverend Spencer, who transformed his life following his release from Parchman in 1988, has since been a prominent advocate for criminal justice reform and rehabilitation.
The Brandon Civic Center, located at 1000 Municipal Drive in Brandon, will host the event. Interested participants are encouraged to register by August 2, 2024, via Eventbrite under “2024 Re-Entry Symposium Tickets, Thursday, Aug 8, 2024 at 8:00 AM.”
The symposium reflects Mississippi’s proactive approach in addressing re-entry challenges and fostering a supportive environment for individuals seeking to reintegrate into society after incarceration. It aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders and highlight effective pathways to reduce recidivism across the state.
