Corrections_Today_Summer_2025_Vol.87_No.2

VIEW FROM THE LINE

Looking forward RTA hopes to continue to expand its transformative arts program to other states, working with cor rections officials to provide the program directly or in collaboration with local arts organizations. The movie “ Sing Sing” put a Hol lywood spotlight on RTA’s proven program. But long after the Acad emy Awards end and the red carpet is rolled up, RTA’s work will go on as it always has — off the screen and behind bars. That may be less glam orous, but because of its impact, it’s just as dramatic. “RTA is beyond therapeutic; it’s life changing,” says Sean Dino Johnson, an RTA alumnus, board member and cast member in “ Sing Sing .” “For over two decades, incarcerated men and women have been transformed through RTA. We all knew about the humanity and greatness stagnating behind the wall, but it was important to let the world know. The “ Sing Sing” movie shines a light on the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility for change, without the stereotypes that often define prison life.” CT

Any materials that come into facilities, ranging from stage props to publications are approved by Correc tions officials. RTA alumni serve as its ambassadors Currently, RTA pro gramming takes place only inside correctional facilities. But once someone has been released, his or her rela tionship with RTA is not

the programs and the corrections staff who enable the program to happen. Teaching artists who come into facilities are also screened and trained. Not only do they go through training and security clearance with the Department of Corrections, but also additional instruction with RTA staff. Rules are strictly en forced. Syllabi must be approved in advance. All teachers are committed to maintaining personal boundar ies and sticking to the approved curriculum. Photo courtesy Rehabilitation Through the Arts Photo courtesy Rehabilitation Through the Arts Teaching artists who come into facilities are screened and trained.

over. An annual homecoming event celebrates alumni who have recently come home. Those who have been out longer provide community, con nection and support. Additionally, RTA alumni spread the positive behaviors they have learned into their communi ties. Many pursue careers in social services, working with at-risk youth, carceral reform and the arts, furthering the role of arts in social justice and rehabilitation work. Several alumni have also joined RTA’s Board.

Leslie Lichter is the interim Executive Director of Rehabilitation Through The Arts. She can be reached at info@rta-arts.org.

Kate Stone Lombardi is a teaching artist with the program.

An annual alumni homecoming event celebrates alumni who have recently come home.

Summer 2025 | Corrections Today

17