“There’s no need for weapons because we use our words.”

Reflections from a South Carolina prison unit grounded in dignity →

Dear Pamela,   The vast majority of the more than 1.9 million people incarcerated in the United States endure brutal conditions, from being warehoused in cramped cells to rampant violence.   At Vera, we're helping prove there is a better way rooted in human dignity, not punishment.   Our Restoring Promise initiative partners with corrections agencies and incarcerated people to design prison housing units that promote accountability, healing, and connection. Trained corrections professionals and mentors—incarcerated adults more than 25 years old who are serving long (often life) sentences—lead the units and offer guidance to younger mentees.    One of these units is Cadre of HOPE, which stands for "Helping Other People Evolve," at South Carolina's Lee Correctional Institution. Pamela, Vera research shows that young adults at Cadre of HOPE report no violence or weapons in the unit, whereas people living in the general population spoke about regularly witnessing and experiencing violence. The evidence is clear: this approach makes prisons safer.  Culture change in prisons doesn't always require sweeping reforms to take root. It starts with creating spaces where safety, dignity, and community can flourish.   When incarcerated people feel more connected to loved ones, mentors, and staff, prisons can be transformed into places that support healing and growth. Thank you for being a part of this change,   Chloe — Chloe Aquart  Director, Restoring Promise  Vera Institute of Justice © 2025 Vera Institute of Justice. All Rights Reserved.   Vera Institute of Justice 34 35th Street | Suite 4-2A | Brooklyn, NY 11232 (212) 334-1300   Privacy Statement | unsubscribe