CSC 33997

This course introduces some of the issues behind calls to reform the U.S. criminal legal system, including mass incarceration and supervision, racial disproportionality, and the challenges of “reentry.” But the heart of the course is our exploration of deeper concerns, including why our criminal legal system relies on punishment, how we might cultivate other forms of justice, and what responsibility we have for the systems that operate in our names. As part of the national Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program, the course involves inside students (people incarcerated at the Westville Correctional Facility in Westville, IN) and outside students (people enrolled at Notre Dame, St. Mary’s, or Holy Cross) learning with and from one another and breaking new ground together. Most weeks of the semester, outside students will travel to Westville for class sessions with the inside students. All students are responsible for the same reading and writing assignments, and participate together in class activities and discussions. Together, we will examine myths and realities related to crime and to punishment, explore the effects of current criminal legal policies, and develop ideas for responding more effectively to harm and violence in our communities.

Class Dates: Fridays, 11:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Instructor: Pam Butler
Application Process: Click on the button below for instructions and to apply. The application deadline is April 5, 2024.

Credits: 3
Associated Term: Fall 2024

Crosslists: Students should check PATH Class Search to see crosslisted courses.