LVN Conversations

4 Items | Curated by Rikers Public Memory Project Archive

A collaboration with Local Voices Network, a citizen journalism initiative, to host story circles throughout the City.

There were three main purposes for this conversation: First, we wanted to create a new space for community members to listen and learn about each other’s experience with Riker’s Island. Second, we wanted to connect across groups and build our relationships with one another. Third, we wanted to create a unique listening channel through which we will lift up the voices and needs of the community to candidates, local policy makers, and members of the media. The Rikers Public Memory Project + Local Voices Network conversations were focused on sharing our personal stories from our lived experience to help build connections and to foster conversations that improve our understanding of one another. The conversations with Local Voices Network and the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene focused on health concerns amongst New Yorkers and on Rikers Island.

Holly Carter, Gregory Pierce, and Ruth McDaniels discuss conditions at Rikers, correctional officers, and the dehumanization of staff and incarcerated people alike. The conversation is facilitated by Tamika Graham, who has also contributed to the Rikers Public Memory Project Oral History…
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Jenny Goldberg, Yonette Grogan, James Young III, and Mr. G discuss correctional officers that harass visitors, outrage turned action, and meaningful systemic change at Rikers. The conversation is facilitated by Tamika Graham, who has also contributed to the Rikers Public Memory Project Oral…
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Trent Taylor, Elena Weissman, and Brandon Holmes discuss inadequate resources inside Rikers, the lack of resources for people re-entering after incarceration, and toxic pollution on the island. The conversation is facilitated by Piper Anderson, Director of Design and Engagement at the Rikers…
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Anna Pastoressa, Kandra Clark, and Virginie Ladisch discuss the culture of dehumanization and violence towards visitors and women. They also explain the movement to close Rikers. The conversation is facilitated by Piper Anderson, Director of Design and Engagement for the Rikers Public Memory…
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