The experience of a Black person who is in prison is unique. It is not the same as a white person, Indigenous person, or other racial groups. From the first moment a Black person meets the police, to their time in court, to prison, and finally to parole, their journey often looks different from other peoples. This course will touch on some of the unique experiences of Black people before, during, and after their time incarcerated.
Due to the large number of Black people within the federal justice system and the recent publication of the Black Justice Strategy, the Implementation Plan and The Federal Framework to Reducing Recidivism, we designed this course to provide information to Black people. While this course was made for Black people in prison, other racialized groups who are also overrepresented can benefit from it. Anyone can take this course and find areas to connect to their own life.
Click on the first lesson below—or the “View Course” button above—when you’re ready to begin.
This course is about helping people understand the experiences of individuals involved in the justice system, especially Black individuals, and how those experiences can be shaped by things like racism, trauma, and systemic barriers.
It also focuses on personal growth by exploring topics like mental health, healing from trauma, family relationships, and breaking harmful cycles.
Finally, the course provides practical tools and strategies to help individuals prepare for a positive future, including successfully returning to their community after release.
The course includes topics such as:
Systemic racism and barriers
Trauma and mental health
Family and intergenerational impacts
Community violence
Preparing for release and reintegration
