Katherine Beckett: How We Created Mass Incarceration and How It Can Be Reversed

As the United States has one of the highest prison rates per capita, incarceration is becoming a widely discussed topic. To share her insight, Katherine Beckett, Ph.D., will be giving a talk titled How We Created Mass Incarceration and How It Can Be Reversed. A sociology professor at the University of Washington, Beckett provides in-depth criticism on America?s criminal justice system, particularly on how marginalized groups?including women, adolescents and people of color?are increasingly imprisoned. Beckett?s research, books and articles emphasize causes and consequences of the U.S. prison system, exploring both political and social factors. Among Becketts awards and honors for her work include the University of Washington?s Public Service Award. She presently works with the King County Prosecuting Attorney?s Office, Northwest Defenders Association and is serving two years with the Seattle Human Rights Commission. Beckett?s appearance is part of the CWU Social Justice and Human Rights Series. This years inaugural theme, Mass Incarceration and Racial Justice: Black and Brown Lives Do Matter, aims to educate Central?s community and initiate discussions about race.