At a City Club forum in January, Mike Reese, Antoinette Edwards, and Terence Hayes discussed challenges and solutions in Oregon’s corrections system. Watch the recorded program now.
On January 8th, at 5:30 pm in the PCC Cascade Moriarty Arts Building Auditorium, the City Club of Portland hosted a conversation between Mike Reese, recently appointed as the Director of Oregon Corrections by Governor Tina Kotek, and Antoinette Edwards, Former Director of the Portland Office of Youth Violence Prevention.
Reese provided context for some of the current challenges within the correctional system, focusing on staff recruitment and retention issues, particularly in corrections officers and medical support staff. He shared that he is currently on a listening tour to better understand their experiences and needs, emphasizing his commitment to improving wellness for both employees and adults in custody. He also addressed recent incidents of employee misconduct, expressing a commitment to accountability and a focus on preventing such behavior.
“There can be no room in public safety for misconduct, whether it’s criminal or whether it’s just pop policy violations. We have to be willing to hold ourselves and each other accountable.”
mike reese, Oregon Department of Corrections
Edwards raised equity issues, including concerns about racial and ethnic diversity in leadership and the workforce. She inquired about efforts being made to reflect the community they serve and discussed the potential for a community advisory table, inspired by the Oregon Youth Authority’s approach. This initiative aims to improve communication and collaboration between the justice system and individuals with lived experience.
Then she welcomed guest speaker Terence Hayes, who spent 13 years in custody before becoming an electrician and a passionate advocate for criminal justice reform. He emphasized the importance of meaningful work during incarceration, suggesting the incorporation of trades and certifications to support successful reintegration.
Together, they explored a variety of ideas to improve community outcomes for individuals in custody and those who have been released, delving into topics such as housing, mental health, addiction resources, and restorative justice.
We invite you to view the recorded program for deeper insights into the diverse perspectives on what is necessary to create a better future for Oregon’s corrections system.