There are no throw-away people! This theme was repeated throughout the April 11 celebratory grand opening of Brie’s Way, the latest enterprise of Justice 4 Housing (J4H). Founded by Leslie Credle, this new program expands J4H’s capacity to empower survivors of incarceration through educational services focused on technology and entrepreneurship. Located across the street from the Mildred Haley Housing Development, this state-of-the-art education center is a beacon of hope in the Mission Hill neighborhood.
Debbe Argueta and I were among the guests who heard impassioned remarks offered by survivors of incarceration as well as by community leaders and politicians who spoke of the barriers experienced by returning citizens and the solutions that ease that reentry process. These testimonials resonated with my own experience and those of tens of TBE congregants who volunteer as Partakers College Behind Bars and PEP mentors where we are privileged to bear witness to the resilience, fortitude and integrity of our student “mentees.” We can testify to the value of this precious educational opportunity and the supportive mentor-mentee relationships developed while in prison, and then the doors opened to them as they embark on their second chances. And as meaningful, how these relationships have changed each of us in recognizing our humanity.
A steadfast supporter of J4H since its inception, Senator Liz Miranda spoke passionately about the opportunities that Brie’s Way will bring to those reentering their communities as well as youth who are aging out of the foster care system. Sharing her personal story about her family members who were incarcerated, Senator Miranda praised Credle’s leadership in providing second chances. Citing the words of Maya Angelou, “We must create a climate where people agree that human beings are more alike than unalike. The only way to do that is through education.”
Credle’s commitment to the returning citizens community is widely recognized in both community and political circles. Justice 4 Housing was founded just six years ago and today operates four residences for returning citizens (including Brie’s House that TBE congregants helped launch in 2023!) Brie’s Way—Beginning Reentry in Educational Services—is yet another avenue to ensure formerly incarcerated men and women get their second chance! It is also Credle’s tribute to her daughter Brianna who was tragically murdered while her mother was incarcerated.
Criminal Justice Reform remains a focal area for TBE’s Racial Justice Initiative—through our partnership with J4H, legislative advocacy efforts, and the Partakers College Behind Bars and PEP programs. Please join us on Thursday, May 1 for a Partakers Informational Session to hear the meaningful and impactful experiences of both TBE congregants and formerly incarcerated students. Register for this one-hour Zoom discussion and learn how you too can be a part of this transformative experience!
Pictured: Ediss Gandelman, Leslie Credle, and Debbie Argueta