OUR PLAN: #CLOSErikers Brooklyn Forum (1)

When the #CLOSErikers campaign began almost three years ago, we knew that the depopulation and destruction of the ten jails on Rikers Island was an urgent and vital task. When in March 2017 the Mayor and the Lippman Commission announced their support for the closure of Rikers in response to the grassroots efforts led by people who’d suffered its harms directly, we knew we were just getting started. In the many months since, the City has not shown a commitment to decriminalize and decarcerate as fast as is actually possible; both of which are major markers that show where New York City is on moving toward racial justice. Although the City plans to close Rikers when the NYC jail population reaches 5,500, JustLeadershipUSA and its partners demand further decarceration and a faster route to decarceration.

The city's proposed plan would move New York City from 12 jails to 4 while reducing capacity from 15,000 beds to 6,000. Leaders of the #CLOSErikers campaign know that we can go further.

Join us on March 14 @ New York Law School to hear from the experiences of formerly incarcerated leaders in Manhattan and understand why approving borough based facilities that prioritize shrinking the citywide jail system is urgent while continuing to fight for decarceration, improving conditions for incarcerated people in New York City, and ensuring that every last individual is free from Rikers Island as fast as possible.

*Light refreshments provided. Metro Cards available for those who may need.